Belize: Work And Live As An American

Belize is a popular destination for US expats due to its stunning natural scenery, friendly people, and relaxed way of life. It is also the only English-speaking country in Central America, making it an attractive option for Americans looking to relocate without a language barrier. The country offers a Go Slow approach to living, a nice change from the fast-paced lifestyle of the US.

Belize makes it relatively easy for Americans to enter the country and settle down. There are several visa options available, including the Visitor Extension Permit, the Visitor Long Stay Permit, and the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP). The latter is a popular choice as it allows anyone over the age of 35 with a regular income to settle in Belize long-term, and their dependents have the right to earn and invest in the country.

For those looking to work in Belize, an employment visa and a temporary employment permit are required. Self-employment permits are relatively easy to obtain, as you will likely be viewed as a job creator. General work permits must be applied for by your prospective employer, who needs to prove that they couldn't find a local resident to fill the position.

The cost of living in Belize is generally lower than in the US, making it a popular choice for retirees and those on a fixed income. However, healthcare and education might be a concern, as advanced medical care is limited, and international school options are competitive.

Overall, Belize offers an enviable lifestyle with a low cost of living, and its immigration laws are quite favourable for Americans.

Immigration and visas

Belize makes it fairly easy for expats to enter the country and settle down. As a US citizen, you can travel to Belize as a tourist without a visa and stay for up to a month. However, if you plan on staying for an extended period or working, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa or permit.

One popular option is the Belize Qualified Retirement Program (QRP), which allows anyone over the age of 35 (some sources state 40 or 45) with a regular income to settle on a long-term basis. Under the QRP, you can also bring your spouse and children under 18, who have the right to earn and invest in the country. As a QRP visa holder, you won't be able to work or own a company, and you'll need to prove you have an income of at least $24,000 per year.

Another option is the Visitor Extension Permit, which allows you to stay in the country month by month for $100 per month. However, you cannot engage in any form of employment or business.

If you plan on working in Belize, you will need an employment visa and a temporary employment permit. Your employer can apply for the permit once you arrive, or you can make the application yourself if you are self-employed.

To become a permanent resident, you must have resided in Belize for at least one year without leaving the country for more than 14 consecutive days. You will need to provide a valid passport, a medical certificate, a clear police record, proof of financial stability, and documents for any dependents. The application fee for permanent residency varies by nationality, ranging from $250 to $5,000, with US nationals paying $1,000 per person.

After becoming a permanent resident, you can apply for Belize citizenship after five years if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Belize is said to be at least 50% cheaper than in the USA, although it is more expensive than other Central American countries like Costa Rica.

The cost of living in Belize will depend on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. If you live like a local, you can get by on a few hundred dollars a month. However, if you want to live in a premium location with all the amenities, you will need a much larger budget.

Housing

Housing costs in Belize depend on the property size, location, ownership status, and build of the property. Basic Belizean-style wood homes are the most economical option, while concrete homes are becoming increasingly popular and tend to offer more conveniences, like air conditioning.

You can expect to pay as little as $600 per month for a two-bedroom home in San Ignacio or $250 per month for a small house in Corozal. In popular expat or tourist communities, such as San Pedro, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, prices are higher. In these areas, you can expect to pay $1,200 to $1,500 per month for a two-bedroom apartment near the beach.

If you want to buy a home, outside of the expensive tourist hotspots, you can find a modern home for $75,000 to $200,000. In premium city locations, prices range from $300,000 to $400,000 for a modern home with all the amenities.

Utilities

Utilities are generally inexpensive in Belize, except for electricity, which is quite expensive. A couple living in a two-bedroom home without an air conditioner can expect to pay about $50 per month, while running air conditioners can increase the bill to around $150 per month.

Internet costs range from $25 to $80 for speeds enough for emailing, streaming, and Netflix. Cable TV is $30 per month, and this includes channels such as HBO, Food Network, CNN, and Fox News.

Food

The cost of food in Belize can vary depending on your diet and where you shop. Belize's national meal, stewed chicken with rice and beans, can be found at roadside stands for $6 to $8. Eating out in tourist spots like Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker will be more expensive, but you can find cheaper options by asking locals for recommendations.

Imported goods can be very expensive due to high import taxes, which can be up to 80% of the value of the item. It is generally more affordable to buy local produce and shop like a local.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Belize can vary depending on your chosen mode of transport and location. Gasoline is expensive, costing between $5 and $7 per gallon, so owning a car can be costly.

Public transportation is the cheapest way to get around, especially for inter-city travel, with bus fares ranging from $1 to $15 depending on the destination.

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Belize are very affordable, although the quality may not be as high as in other countries. An urgent care trip might cost around $25, while advanced lab work will cost around $200.

Other Costs

Other costs to consider when living in Belize include vehicle insurance, license, and fuel. Third-party insurance is mandatory and costs approximately $250 per year, while a vehicle license is $100 per year, and a driver's license is $30 per year.

If you plan to become a Belizean citizen, you will need to renew your tourist visa every 30 days at a cost of $100 per month. After one year of living in Belize full-time, you can apply for permanent residency, and after five years, you can apply for citizenship.

Sample Monthly Budgets

According to a sample monthly budget for a couple living a comfortable expatriate lifestyle, you can expect to spend around $450 to $600 on rent, $250 to $350 on electricity, $250 to $350 on entertainment, $100 to $200 on miscellaneous expenses, $200 to $300 on household help, $100 to $200 on property taxes, $500 to $600 on homeowner's insurance, $100 to $200 on car-related costs, and $200 to $300 on fuel.

Overall, a couple can live comfortably in Belize with a monthly budget of $1,500, although this may vary depending on their lifestyle and location.

Healthcare

Belize's healthcare system is still developing and may not be as advanced as what Americans are used to. However, it has been steadily improving over the years. Most expats say that the country needs more healthcare facilities, specialised physicians and staff, and better equipment. With fewer than 400,000 residents, Belize doesn't collect enough income tax revenue to fund a large number of public hospitals.

The good news is that minor ailments and many emergencies can be treated by physicians at public clinics, all of which are found throughout the country, except in some rural areas. High-quality medical care is also available in several nearby countries, and insurance that covers emergency transportation to the US is usually very affordable.

Belize City is home to most of the country's 24/7 hospitals, including the Karl Heusner public hospital, and two excellent private hospitals: Belize Medical Associates and Healthcare Partners. Most expats prefer private hospitals as their fees are reasonable and they provide better, more comprehensive care. The towns of San Ignacio, Corozal, Dangriga, and Punta Gorda also have 24-hour care hospitals, but their selection of medical services is limited compared to those in Belize City.

There are currently no hospitals on the cayes or in Placencia or Hopkins. However, Ambergris Caye has expanded its public polyclinic to offer 24-hour care with a doctor on call, and there is a local airstrip that allows for emergency night flights. The island also has a rescue response team and ambulance called Rickilee Response and Rescue (RRR).

Since healthcare facilities in Belize do not offer the same level of care as hospitals in the US or other surrounding areas, many expats choose to receive medical treatment in the US, Mexico, or Guatemala.

Expats with Medicare in the US or coverage under the Canadian healthcare system typically pay out of pocket for routine care in Belize and then fly north for surgery or long-term, involved medical treatment. Dozens of companies offer international health insurance that covers the cost of overseas medical care and/or the cost of flying home for emergency treatment.

Expats in Belize who maintain international health insurance have policies with companies such as Cigna Global, Bupa/IHI, and International Medical Group. Some expats decide to forego health insurance entirely and self-insure, as the cost of common medical surgeries and services in Belize and Mexico is reasonable, and they seldom exceed their health insurance deductibles.

The quality of dental care in Belize is excellent, and the price is reasonable.

If you have long-term health issues, be sure to evaluate the regional emergency healthcare before deciding to relocate to Belize.

Employment visas

To work in Belize, you must apply for a Temporary Employment Permit. This is also referred to as a "Work Permit". The application process is done at any Labour Department Office. You must be residing in Belize and hold a valid passport and a valid Belize visa to submit your application.

If you are employed, your employer must make the submission on your behalf. If you are self-employed, you must make the application yourself. Within 30 days, you will be notified of the status of your application. If your application is approved, you must visit the nearest Immigration Office to the Labour Department office where you made your submission.

The Immigration Office will inform you of the temporary employment permit fees, which must be paid at the office. They will also instruct you to go to the nearest Belize Tax Service to request an Income Tax Letter.

Once you have presented your valid passport, proof of payment, and Income Tax letter to the Immigration Office, the permit will be issued immediately. Then, you must visit the Social Security Office to apply for your card.

Temporary Employment Permits are issued for the following types of workers:

• Professional Workers (Holders of University Degree)
• Technical Workers
• General Workers/Farmhands (in the banana, sugar and citrus industries, other than seasonal agricultural)
• Seasonal Agricultural Workers
• General Workers (in all other industries not covered by the above)
• Self-Employed Workers (in other industries not covered under the above)
• Self-Employed Workers in the agricultural industry
• Entertainers (performing in groups of two or more persons, six or more persons, or alone)
• Religious, cultural, educational, and voluntary workers
• Import/Export Traders
• Waitresses and Domestics

The work permit approval process takes at least 2 to 3 months. When a work permit is issued for the second year, an applicant is qualified to apply for a Belize permanent residence permit.

Permanent Residence Permit

Foreign workers who have lived in Belize for at least 1 year are qualified to apply for permanent residency. During the 1-year period, the individual must not have left the country for more than 12 consecutive days.

Once approved, this visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in Belize for the long term unless the individual gets involved in certain illegal activities such as trafficking of antiquities, in which case the visa will be revoked.

The requirements to submit an application include:

• A police background check
• A medical fitness report
• A letter of financial support from a local sponsor or bank statement

Real estate

Belize's real estate market is hot, and it has only heated up during the COVID-19 pandemic. The country's top tourism destination, Ambergris Caye, has seen booming tourism, making the Ambergris Caye real estate market one of the best places to buy. In addition, the fact that Belize's currency is pegged at a 2:1 exchange rate with the US dollar, the national language is English, and the country is only a 2-3 hour plane ride from many major North American air hubs, all contribute to making Belize an attractive real estate market for investors.

One of the major draws of Belize is that foreigners can buy property freely and have the same property ownership rights as locals. The country abolished its Alien Landholding Act in 2001, allowing foreigners who buy real estate in Belize to have the same rights as citizens. This is in contrast to many other countries in the region, such as Mexico, where foreigners can still buy real estate but must jump through a few extra hoops.

Belize offers a range of investment incentives that promote foreign ownership of property. The country is also one of the easiest and most amenable countries for foreigners looking to buy real estate. Another advantage is that you do not need to be physically present in Belize to make an offer on a property or complete a closing, as most real estate transactions in Belize are done remotely.

When buying real estate in Belize, it is recommended to get both a Belize buyer's agent and a Belize real estate attorney to ensure you are getting a good deal and that everything is proper and legal. It is also highly recommended that the attorney performs a title search, which costs around $250, to ensure that the real estate in question is not involved in any legal disputes and can be legally sold.

When buying real estate in Belize, you will likely encounter the following fees:

• Government Stamp Transfer Tax: a little under 5% of the purchase price
• Attorney's fees: 1-2% of the purchase price
• Title search (through attorney): $250
• General Sales Tax (for new residential properties): 12.5% of the purchase price

Once a price has been negotiated and both sides enter into an agreement, a deposit of 10% is typically paid, and the real estate is taken off the market.

There are many benefits to buying real estate in Belize. One of the most prominent is that there is no capital gains tax. In addition, property taxes are incredibly low, with a house or condo worth $250,000 having property taxes typically in the region of $375-$1000 per year. In more rural areas, property taxes can be as low as $6 per year. These two features combined make Belize an incredibly attractive place for those looking to buy a Belize real estate investment.

In addition, buying real estate in Belize is attractive because of its familiarity to US and Canadian markets. The Belizean dollar is pegged at a fixed 2:1 ratio with the US dollar, and property prices are typically quoted in US dollars. Because English is the national language, all contracts will be written in English, making them clearer for North American buyers.

A few other things to consider when buying real estate in Belize:

• "Deed Restrictions" can occasionally be placed upon a property, which, in conjunction with the property's zoning, can place restrictions on how the land can be used and how tall a structure built on that land can be.
• The preferred way of owning real estate is through Title Free and Clear, either as an individual or through a corporate body. The property can be mortgaged with a bank or credit union.
• Getting a mortgage loan from a bank in Belize to buy or build property can be challenging for non-residents, so it is advisable to be prepared to pay in cash or secure owner financing.
• Most foreigners purchasing real estate pay cash from their own money or borrow funds in their home countries where interest rates are lower.
• Another option is owner financing, where the seller provides part financing for the buyer, with the buyer typically putting down 30% cash and the owner financing the balance at rates of 6-8% over a five or ten-year period.

Belize is a very attractive real estate market, with prices going up consistently over the past decade, especially in tourist hotspots like Ambergris Caye. It is also a very similar market to first-world jurisdictions, such as the United States, and incredibly close geographically. Finally, the very low taxes involved with real estate ownership in Belize make it a top-tier real estate destination.

Frequently asked questions