Ruqayyah Snyder
As of April 2023, Belize had reported cases of COVID-19 in the country. The country had implemented various measures to prevent the spread of the virus, including screening and restricting the travel of incoming travellers. Belize had also received donations of COVID-19 vaccines from the US government. As of July 2022, the Belize Tourism Board advised that the Belizean government had removed all public health measures at points of entry, and tourists could move about freely. However, as of July 2024, the US Embassy in Belize issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| COVID-19 Status | Belize was the last country in the Americas to report cases of COVID-19, as of March 22, 2020. |
| Travel Restrictions | As of August 9, 2021, all travellers, regardless of vaccination status, must present a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country. |
| Quarantine Requirements | Quarantine requirements depend on test results. A 14-day quarantine is mandatory for certain countries. |
| Lockdown Status | Partial lockdown. A nationwide curfew is in place from 9 pm to 4 am for adults and 6 pm to 4 am for minors. |
| COVID-19 Testing | Testing is mandatory for all travellers upon arrival at their own expense. |
| Mask Mandate | Masks and social distancing are mandatory in public spaces. |
| Gatherings | No gatherings of more than 10 people are allowed. |
| Restaurants | Dine-in services are allowed with reduced capacity and reservations in some areas. Take-out is encouraged. |
| Bars and Nightclubs | Closed. |
| Pubs | Open with restrictions and reduced capacity. |
| Schools | Open, subject to safety and readiness standards. |
| Vaccination | Vaccinated travellers are allowed entry. Vaccination is recommended for residents. |
What You'll Learn
Belize's COVID-19 response
As the pandemic progressed, Belize continued to adapt its response. From August 9, 2021, all travellers, regardless of vaccination status, were required to present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Those without a negative test result were tested at the airport at their own cost. A nationwide curfew was also implemented to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The curfew was active from 9 pm to 4 am for adults and 6 pm to 4 am for minors, unless they were accompanied by an adult.
Belize also enforced strict regulations in public spaces. Masks and social distancing were mandatory in public, and gatherings were limited to no more than 10 people. Restaurants, bars, pubs, nightclubs, and schools were allowed to operate with restrictions and enhanced health and safety measures.
Belize has received support from international partners, including the United States, which donated COVID-19 vaccine doses. The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization also provided support by donating information technology equipment to the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
As of July 12, 2022, the Belize Tourism Board removed all public health measures at the points of entry, and tourists could move about freely. However, it is still recommended that tourists stay at Gold Standard certified accommodations and use certified tourism services and attractions, as these entities have implemented enhanced health and safety measures.
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Travel restrictions
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Belize due to COVID-19, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country. The US State Department advises citizens to reconsider travel to Belize due to COVID-19 and exercise increased caution in the country due to crime. Some areas, including Belize City, have an increased risk.
The CDC recommends that travellers review its specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers before planning any international travel. The US Embassy in Belize also recommends that travellers review the CDC's webpage on travel and COVID-19.
The Government of Belize declared a state of emergency in several locations in June 2024 due to high levels of crime, including Southside Belize City, Northside Victoria Street, and Roaring Creek Village. Security forces have the power to restrict freedom of movement, conduct searches and seizures, and detain persons of interest. A nightly curfew is in place for minors under the age of 18 between 6 pm and 6 am.
Travellers are advised to carry valid ID at all times and monitor local media to stay informed about the situation.
U.S. citizens are advised to avoid travelling to Belize City, particularly the Southside, due to gang-related and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, is common in Belize, even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. Travellers are advised to exercise caution, be aware of their surroundings, and avoid walking or driving at night.
To reduce exposure to crime-related risks, visitors should practice good safety and security measures, such as not resisting any robbery attempts, being vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs, and not displaying signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewellery. Enrolling in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) is also recommended to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency.
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Quarantine requirements
Belize has had cases of COVID-19 and is currently listed as a Level 3 Travel Health Notice country by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This means that there is a high level of COVID-19 in the country. The Belize Tourism Board, Travel Belize, and Belize Port Authority are all sources of information regarding travel to Belize during the pandemic.
If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms during your stay in Belize, you will be expected to quarantine for 10 days at your own expense. If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to remain in Belize until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment locally. You should contact the local authorities for information on testing facilities.
Before travelling to Belize, it is recommended that you review the CDC's specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers. It is also advised that you visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on the virus in Belize.
In addition, it is important to be aware of the possibility that your plans may change due to COVID-19. Countries may further restrict travel or implement new rules with little notice, for example, in response to a new COVID-19 variant. Therefore, it is essential to stay updated with information from your travel company or airline, as well as local authorities, to ensure you are aware of any changes that may impact your journey.
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Vaccination status
Belize has received COVID-19 vaccine donations from the US government and the people and government of Mexico. Since August 2021, the US has donated 232,950 Pfizer doses to Belize. The Belize Ministry of Health and Wellness is also encouraging people to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Belize due to COVID-19, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country. The CDC recommends that before planning any international travel, individuals review its specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers. The CDC also requires that all non-US citizens travelling to the US by air must demonstrate proof of vaccination.
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COVID-19 testing
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Belize due to COVID-19, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country. The US has donated 232,950 Pfizer vaccine doses to Belize.
In the United States, individuals can access free COVID-19 testing at various locations, including dedicated testing sites, "Test-to-Treat" locations, and participating libraries. Insured individuals can also contact their doctor or health plan to get tested for free. For those without health insurance, free testing is available at specific locations, and antigen testing kits are also available at county libraries, community-based organizations, and other participating locations.
It is important to stay informed about the latest testing recommendations and guidelines, as well as the availability of testing resources in your area. This information can typically be found on official government or health department websites.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Belize has coronavirus. As of April 2023, the US has donated 232,950 Covid-19 vaccine doses to the country.
As of July 2022, there are no longer any Covid-related public health measures at the points of entry in Belize. However, as of August 2021, all travellers, vaccinated or not, must present a negative Covid-19 test to enter the country.
As of July 2021, there was a nationwide curfew in place in Belize to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Other restrictions included mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing in public, and a ban on gatherings of more than 10 people.
If you develop Covid-19 symptoms, you should notify your hotel's front desk immediately. They will implement their Covid Response Plan. If you test positive, you will be required to quarantine for a minimum of 7 days.
