Belize's American Retirement Haven

Belize is a popular retirement destination for Americans due to its tropical climate, lower cost of living, and English-speaking population. The country offers a Qualified Retired Person (QRP) program, which provides residency and tax advantages for retirees over the age of 45 who can prove a minimum monthly income. While there is no exact data on the number of American retirees in Belize, the QRP program had 311 participants and 300 dependents as of 2022. Additionally, Belize's proximity to the US, with flight times of around 2 hours, makes it a convenient choice for retirees who want to stay connected with their families.

Cost of living in Belize

The cost of living in Belize is estimated to be at least 31% lower than in the US, and some sources claim it could be as much as 50% cheaper. This is largely due to the lower costs of housing and food. However, it is not the cheapest place to live, and some items, such as electricity and gasoline, are more expensive.

Housing

The cost of renting or buying a home in Belize varies depending on location and style. A basic, traditional Belizean wood home is the most economical option, typically costing around $600 per month to rent or $20,000-$30,000 to buy. These houses usually don't have air conditioning and tend to be smaller, with one or two bedrooms.

More modern concrete homes are becoming increasingly popular, offering more conveniences like air conditioning, and are available in a broader range of sizes. These homes are more expensive, with rents ranging from $1,200 to $1,500 per month for a two-bedroom apartment in popular expat communities like San Pedro, Placencia, or Caye Caulker.

Utilities

Electricity is one of the most significant utility expenses in Belize, with a residential rate of $0.45 per kWh. A couple running air conditioning in their home may see an electric bill of around $150 per month. City water is inexpensive, and rain catchment is also an option, with a couple paying around $20-$50 per month. Internet costs range from $25 to $80 for speeds suitable for streaming, and cable TV is available for $30 per month.

Transportation

Vehicle fuel is relatively expensive in Belize, ranging from $5 to $7 per gallon for gasoline. Third-party insurance is mandatory and costs approximately $250 per year, while vehicle and driver's licenses cost $100 and $30 per year, respectively. Public transportation is also available and is the cheapest way to cover longer distances, with bus fares ranging from $1 to $15 depending on the distance travelled.

Food

The cost of food in Belize varies depending on location and dietary preferences. A couple from North America can survive on a monthly food budget of $400, but a more comfortable budget would be $1,000-$1,500. Eating out will increase food expenses, with a meal for two costing around $28 in Belize City and up to $60 in tourist areas like Ambergris Caye.

Healthcare

Belize offers both public and private healthcare options, both of which are significantly cheaper than in the US. Basic medical care and lab work can cost as little as $25 and $200, respectively. However, for more advanced medical care, many people choose to travel to Mexico or return to the US.

Entertainment

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Belize, including snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, and exploring the many natural attractions. However, these activities can be pricey, ranging from $65 to $100 per person.

Residency

There are two primary residency options for retirees in Belize: obtaining permanent residency status or applying for the Qualified Retirement Persons (QRP) program. Permanent residency requires living in Belize for at least 50 consecutive weeks out of a full year, without leaving the country for more than 14 consecutive days. This option allows residents to work in Belize without a work permit and travel freely in and out of the country.

The QRP program offers a more flexible route, requiring only one month per year in Belize to maintain status. Individuals over 45 are eligible, and they must prove they can deposit $24,000 per year into a Belizean bank account. This option does not allow members to work in Belize.

Residency options

Belize offers three ways to obtain extended stays in the country for visitors wishing to stay for longer periods. These are the Visitor Extension Permit/Long Stay Permit, the Qualified Retired Person (QRP) Program, and Permanent Residency.

Visitor Extension Permit

The tourist extension permit is a simple way to stay in Belize for a short period. There is no long-term commitment, and you can enjoy your stay month by month. The process is straightforward: obtain a one-month entry stamp on your passport when entering the country, then after 30 days, visit an immigration office and request a Visitor's Permit Extension for US$100, which allows you to stay for another 30 days. However, you cannot work or engage in any business during this time.

Visitor Long Stay Permit

The 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 applying with dependents. This permit allows the holder and their dependents to enter and remain in Belize for up to six months in a calendar year, but it does not allow them to work in the country.

Qualified Retired Person (QRP) Program

The QRP program offers permanent tourist status to those who meet the income requirements and wish to retire in Belize. To be eligible, you must be at least 45 years old (soon to be lowered to 40) and deposit a monthly income of at least $2,000 or $24,000 annually into a local bank. This program provides tax-free entry for household goods and vehicles, as well as duty-free import of marine vessels and small aircraft. QRP members only need to spend one month per year in Belize to maintain their status and can travel freely in and out of the country. However, they are not permitted to work in Belize.

Permanent Residency

To apply for permanent residency, you must have lived in Belize for at least 50 consecutive weeks out of a full year, without leaving the country for more than 14 consecutive days. During this time, you will need to renew your visitor's visa or tourist card every month. After one year, you can apply for permanent residency by submitting the required application form, undergoing an HIV test, providing necessary documents, and fulfilling other requirements. Once approved, you can work freely in Belize and travel in and out of the country without restrictions. After five years, you can apply for full citizenship.

Healthcare

Belize has both public and private healthcare systems. The public system is funded by the government and offers free or low-cost care to the majority of Belizeans. However, it often struggles to meet demand and lacks specialised physicians, staff, equipment, and infrastructure. The private system is relatively small and inexpensive, serving a niche portion of the population with a stronger focus on quality care.

Public Healthcare in Belize

The Ministry of Health (MoH) is the main provider of public health services in Belize, overseeing the entire health sector. While public healthcare is available to everyone, it often faces challenges such as inadequate staffing, lack of financial resources, and limited equipment and medicine. Most public hospitals are located in Belize City, including the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, the country's premier public healthcare provider and national referral hospital. Outside the city, there are seven additional hospitals in the district capitals, with three of them being regional hospitals: the Southern Regional Hospital in Dangriga, the Northern Regional Hospital in Orange Walk Town, and the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan.

Public healthcare in Belize is generally affordable, with a doctor's visit costing around $15 to $20. However, the system often faces high demand and may not be adequately equipped to handle serious emergencies or complex diseases.

Private Healthcare in Belize

The private healthcare sector in Belize is relatively small but plays an important role. It serves a niche portion of the population, including expats, retirees, and wealthier locals who prefer access to specialists. While private healthcare is less expensive than in some countries, the costs can add up, especially for serious conditions. Therefore, many individuals carry private medical insurance.

Belize has three main private hospitals: La Loma Luz Hospital, Belize Medical Associates, and Universal Health Services. There are also over 50 private clinics, with half of them located in Belize City. Private healthcare fees are considered reasonable, and some common surgeries, such as hernia surgery or cataract surgery, typically cost under $2,500.

Insurance and Evacuation Coverage

Expats in Belize have several options for health insurance. Some maintain international health insurance policies with companies like Cigna Global, Bupa/IHI, and the International Medical Group. Others may opt for private insurance within Belize or choose to self-insure due to the relatively low cost of medical services.

For serious emergencies or complex medical conditions, many expats and retirees rely on evacuation coverage provided by international health insurance policies. This coverage is crucial as an ambulance flight can cost $15,000 or more.

While Belize offers an attractive retirement destination with a low cost of living and a favourable exchange rate, retirees, especially those with existing medical conditions, should carefully consider the country's healthcare system. Many American retirees return home periodically to take advantage of Medicare for more specialised or long-term treatment.

For retirees with serious health issues or complex diseases, it is recommended to evaluate the regional emergency healthcare options in Belize before making a decision. Additionally, it is important to have a plan for serious emergencies, as the country lacks a Level I trauma centre equivalent.

Climate

Belize has a tropical climate with a well-marked dry season from late February to May and a wet season from June to November. The dry season, also known as the little dry, sees significantly less rainfall than the rest of the year, with mild, short bursts of rain. The wet season, on the other hand, is characterised by heavy storms associated with the Caribbean, typically occurring in the late afternoons. The wet season is also hurricane season, and while Belize does not attract many major direct hits, it does experience severe tropical weather with high winds and rain.

The mean annual temperature in Belize ranges from 23-27°C, with the coast generally exhibiting hotter temperatures than the interior. The average yearly temperature is 84°F (29°C), with winter temperatures rarely falling below 60°F (16°C) and summer temperatures sitting around 86°F (30°C). The temperature in Belize City specifically is about 74 °F (23 °C) in December and 84 °F (29 °C) in July.

The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) heavily influences Belize’s climate, with the El Niño phenomenon producing warmer conditions from June to August, and La Niña producing wetter conditions and tropical cyclones. The trade winds blow onshore most of the year, and from September to December, northerly winds bring cooler, drier air.

The average cost of rent in Belize is around 75% lower than in the US, and the cost of living is roughly 31% lower. However, the costs vary depending on the area, with island living being more expensive. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in Belize City would cost around $300 per month, while a similar apartment on Ambergris Caye could range from $400 to nearly $2,000. Food costs also vary, with a mid-range meal for two costing around $28 in Belize City and $60 on Ambergris Caye.

Culture

Belize is a melting pot of cultures, attracting people from all walks of life, from barefoot fishermen to software millionaires, 50-somethings, and 20-somethings. The country has a diverse range of cultures and a rich history, with the Maya civilisation dating back thousands of years. The first Europeans to arrive in Belize were Spaniards, followed by Scots, Irish, British, Africans, Garifuna, Mennonites, Central Americans, Lebanese, Chinese, and other Europeans. Each ethnic group has its own unique history, cuisine, and cultural events, festivals, and fairs.

The official language of Belize is English, making it easy for North Americans and Europeans to settle in the country without having to learn a new language. However, Spanish is also widely spoken, and Latinos are now the largest single ethnic group in Belize.

Belize has a laid-back and easy-going culture, with a strong emphasis on community and independence. The people are known for their hospitality and fierce independence, with a preference for living off the land and sea rather than being dependent on others. The country operates with an old-school mentality, and its people are helpful and good-natured.

Belizeans love to party and celebrate, with fifteen official holidays, including a long Easter Holiday that spans five days. Music, dancing, and festivals are an integral part of Belizean culture, with a mix of rock 'n' roll, country, punta, and salsa. The Belizeans' zest for life is reflected in their love for loud music and all-night parties.

The country also has a strong focus on conservation over consumerism, with limited infrastructure, services, and amenities. The healthcare system in Belize offers both public and private options, with reasonable costs compared to the United States. However, for more specialised or sensitive medical conditions, some people choose to seek treatment in Mexico or the United States.

Belize's back-to-basics approach to living, stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and English-speaking population make it an attractive retirement destination for Americans and expatriates.

Frequently asked questions