Belize: A Tropical Paradise For American Expats

Belize is a popular destination for expats from the US, Canada, and Europe, and it's easy to see why. The country boasts a diverse ecosystem, friendly locals, and a low cost of living. Plus, as a former British colony, English is the official language, making the transition to life in Belize easier for English speakers.

But is it possible for Americans to live there? The short answer is yes. Belize offers several visa options for extended stays, including the Visitor Extension Permit, the Visitor Long Stay Permit, and the Qualified Retired Person Program. After living in Belize for a year, expats can also apply for permanent residency, which grants privileges similar to those enjoyed by citizens.

However, there are some cons to consider, such as high crime rates, poor road conditions, and limited access to quality healthcare. But for those willing to navigate these challenges, Belize can be an excellent place to call home.

Belize's pros and cons for Americans

Pros

• Belize is a beautiful country with a diverse ecosystem, including beaches, savannahs, rainforests, and mountains.
• The climate is tropical, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s during the day and 70s and 80s at night, year-round.
• Belize is a young country with a laid-back, "no shirt, no shoes, no problem" lifestyle.
• Belize is the only country in Central America where English is the official language, making communication and transition easier for Americans.
• Belize has a low cost of living compared to the US, with dining out, grocery shopping, and housing being significantly cheaper.
• Belize offers a relaxed lifestyle with a focus on enjoying life, including activities such as snorkelling, diving, hiking, bird-watching, zip-lining, and socialising.
• Belize has a diverse culture with roots in Mayan, Kriol, East Indian, Garifuna, and Mestizo traditions, which is reflected in its lively festivals and celebrations.
• Belize has a simple and consistent exchange rate, making it convenient to use both Belizean and US dollars.
• Belize offers visa and residency options specifically for retirees, such as the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP), making it an attractive retirement destination.
• Belize has a low crime rate in expat communities, and a special unit of police dedicated to protecting tourists and expats.

Cons

• Belize has a high overall crime rate, particularly in Belize City, with gang-related violence and sexual assault being common issues.
• Access to quality healthcare is limited, especially in rural areas, and the healthcare system is less developed than in the US.
• The roads in Belize are in poor condition, and transportation can be unreliable.
• The humidity in Belize can be oppressive, with high temperatures and high humidity levels.
• Belize may not offer the same comforts and amenities as the US, such as large supermarkets or reliable taxi services.
• Belize falls within the Hurricane Belt and is prone to storms during hurricane season, from June to November.
• The pace of life in Belize is slow, which can be frustrating for those used to a faster-paced lifestyle.
• The infrastructure in Belize is less developed, and there may be occasional power and water outages.

The process of migrating to Belize

Belize is a welcoming country for foreigners, especially retirees. The country offers three ways to obtain extended stays: the Visitor Extension Permit, the Visitor Long Stay Permit, and Permanent Residency.

Visitor Extension Permit

The Visitor Extension Permit is the easiest way to stay in Belize for a while. The procedure is simple: obtain a one-month entry stamp on your passport when entering the country, then after 30 days, go to an immigration office and request a Visitor's Permit Extension for US$100, which allows you to stay for another 30 days. You cannot work during this time.

Visitor Long Stay Permit

The Visitor Long Stay Permit, also known as the Digital Nomad Visa, costs US$500 and is valid for six months. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the EU, UK, USA, or Canada, with a minimum annual income of US$75,000 for individuals or US$100,000 for those with dependents. This permit cannot be renewed.

Permanent Residency

After residing in Belize for one year without leaving the country for more than 14 consecutive days, you can apply for Permanent Residency. The process is paperwork-intensive and can take over a year. The requirements include proof of financial stability, a clear police record, a medical certificate, and documents for any dependents. The application fee varies by nationality, from US$250 to US$5,000. For US nationals, the fee is US$1,000 per person. Once approved, permanent residents can work in Belize and enjoy the same privileges as citizens. After five years, they can apply for full citizenship.

Qualified Retirement Program (QRP)

The QRP is a permanent tourist status that allows individuals aged 45 and above (soon to be lowered to 40) with a monthly income of at least US$2,000 to retire in Belize. The program offers tax-free entry of household goods and motor vehicles, and the opportunity to buy property or land. The application process costs US$150, and once approved, there is a fee of US$1,000 and a US$25 yearly renewal fee.

The cost of living in Belize

Housing

The type of housing and location will determine the cost. A basic, traditional Belizean-style wooden home is the most economical option. These are typically smaller, without air conditioning, and with shutters over screened windows. Concrete homes are becoming more popular, and while they are more expensive to build, they are available in a broader range of sizes and tend to have more conveniences, like air conditioning.

In the Cayo District, a 2 or 3-bedroom home with a garden can cost less than $150,000 to purchase.

In San Ignacio, a two-bedroom home can be rented for as low as $600 per month, while in Placencia or Hopkins, a one-bedroom condo on the coast will cost at least $1,200 per month.

In popular expat communities such as San Pedro, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, rental prices vary based on proximity to the beach or the town centre. In San Pedro, a two-bedroom apartment near the beach with air conditioning, located a few miles from town, costs between $1,200 and $1,500. In Placencia, a similar apartment in or near the village costs around the same. In Cayo, a one-bedroom apartment on the water with air conditioning, within walking distance to town, is $1,000 per month.

Utilities

Electricity is expensive in Belize, with a residential rate of $0.45 per kWh. A couple running air conditioning in both bedrooms at night may pay around $150 per month. City water is inexpensive, and rain catchment is a great alternative. A couple can expect to pay between $20 and $50 per month for water. Internet costs between $25 and $80 for speeds suitable for emailing, streaming, and Netflix. Cable TV is $30 per month.

Food

The cost of food depends on whether you choose to eat out or cook at home, and where you shop. Belize's national dish, stewed chicken with rice and beans, can be bought for $6 to $8 at roadside stands and is cheap to prepare at home.

In tourist areas like Placencia, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker, eating out will be more expensive. However, locals can direct you to cheaper restaurants.

If you choose to cook at home, it is more affordable to shop like a local and rely on local items and produce. For example, instead of buying Doritos, Lays, or Pringles, opt for locally-made tortilla chips or fried plantain chips. Shopping at vegetable stands and knowing the best day of the week to get fresh produce can also save money.

Transportation

Gas is expensive in Belize, costing between $5 and $7 per gallon for gasoline, and diesel tends to be cheaper. Vehicle insurance, licenses, and fuel can add up. Third-party insurance is mandatory and costs around $250 per year, while a vehicle license is $100 per year, and a driver's license is $30 per year.

If you live in a bigger town, getting repairs can be a challenge as parts may be hard to come by, and finding a reliable mechanic can take time.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Belize is rapidly improving, with the government investing in building new clinics and medical services. However, specialty healthcare is mostly found in Belmopan and Belize City. An "urgent care" trip might cost $25, while more advanced lab work will cost around $200. Many people choose to travel to Mexico for more advanced and affordable medical care.

Other Costs

Other costs to consider include phone plans and fitness or social activities. A cell phone plan with unlimited talk and text and 8 GB of data costs about $28 per month, while the largest data plan with 66 GB is $78 per month.

Socializing is the number one activity among expats, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Snorkelling, scuba diving, and fishing are also popular activities, but they can be pricey, ranging from $65 to $100 per person.

Overall Budget

A couple from North America can survive on $1,000 per month, but $1,500 would be more reasonable. A US couple can live well for $2,000 a month, including rent, in Corozal, the Cayo, and Toledo Districts.

Residency options for retirees

There are two primary residency options for retirees in Belize: permanent residency and the Qualified Retirement Persons (QRP) program.

Permanent residency

To apply for permanent residency, you must live in Belize for at least 50 consecutive weeks out of a full year. During this period, you cannot leave the country for more than 14 consecutive days, or your application may be void. To stay for 50 weeks, you will need to renew a visitor's visa or tourist card every month until your permanent residency application is approved. Visitors can stay in Belize without a visa for up to 30 days, and you can renew your card with a small fee.

Permanent residency offers some notable perks. You can work in Belize without a work permit, and you can travel freely in and out of the country without any restrictions. If your application is approved, you can apply for full citizenship after five years.

The Qualified Retirement Persons (QRP) program

The QRP program offers a more flexible residency route. Individuals over the age of 45 (this will soon be lowered to 40) are eligible to apply, and the program also benefits their spouse and children. Members can travel in and out of Belize as they please, and they only need to spend one month per year in Belize to maintain their QRP status.

To be eligible, you must prove that you can deposit $24,000 per year into a Belizean bank account. You can prove your income through a pension, retirement savings, or a Social Security-related fund. However, if you choose this plan, you won't be able to work in Belize.

The QRP program offers several benefits, including residency status, import duty and tax exemption, and the ability to buy land to build a property for residential use.

Healthcare in Belize

Public Healthcare in Belize

There are eight major public hospitals and around 60 public clinics in Belize. The public hospitals and clinics provide very low-cost and almost free healthcare services to anyone who needs them. However, this often results in long waiting times. A Belize Health Information System card (BHIS) is mandatory for anyone who seeks treatment in a public healthcare facility. This applies to citizens and expats alike.

The public healthcare system in Belize is underfunded, understaffed, and undersupplied. Most expats report that the country needs more healthcare facilities, more specialised physicians and staff, and better equipment. The public healthcare system in Belize is free for Belizeans, but expats are liable to pay for all medical costs incurred for healthcare services at public or private facilities.

The largest and primary public hospital in Belize is the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. There are three additional regional hospitals:

• Southern Regional Hospital in Dangriga
• Northern Regional Hospital in Orange Walk Town
• Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan

The remaining four public hospitals are in Corozal, Santa Elena, Punta Gorda, and San Ignacio. A network of public clinics in larger population centres provides basic healthcare services to local residents.

Private Healthcare in Belize

The private health sector in Belize provides care to a smaller portion of the population. However, similar to the public sector, private health services are offered at a relatively low cost with a shared emphasis on quality of care and quality improvement. The private health sector has grown over the last few years, especially in urban areas. Although the costs are high, the coverage is comprehensive. It also offers a range of secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities.

The two largest private hospitals in Belize are Belize Medical Associates and Belize Healthcare Partners, both located in Belize City. Other private hospitals and clinics include La Loma Luz Hospital, a private institution run by the Seventh Day Adventist mission; Universal Health Services, another private healthcare facility in Belize City; and Grand Caribe, a state-of-the-art clinic on Ambergris Caye.

Health Insurance in Belize

The acquisition of international private health insurance has increased in Belize in recent years. 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. Premiums vary widely and also increase substantially for those over 60 years of age.

Most expats in Belize who maintain international health insurance have policies with the following companies, which are active in Belize: Cigna Global, Bupa/IHI, and International Medical Group.

Emergency Medical Services in Belize

There is a shortage of medical professionals in Belize. A large section of doctors and medical professionals are foreign nationals working in the Belizean health sector, often as volunteers. The shortage of medical supplies and medical equipment hinders the delivery of quality health services. This shortage is especially evident in rural areas. Emergency services are limited to the urban towns and cities, with little or no ambulances in remote areas.

Common Health Issues in Belize

There are a number of health conditions prevalent in Belize, including malaria, dengue fever, gastroenteritis, cholera, and HIV/AIDS. These conditions are often related to issues surrounding infrastructure and standard of sanitation, and are reflective of the general lack of education and awareness about how these conditions are acquired and transmitted.

Historically, malaria has caused major problems in Belize, and although treatment has improved dramatically over the years, there are still concerns about future outbreaks. Similar concerns surround dengue fever, cholera, and HIV/AIDS. Due to the relatively fragile infrastructure and low population, an outbreak of HIV/AIDS or any of the other conditions noted above may impact the population size as well as human resources.

Frequently asked questions