Covid Testing Costs In Belize: A Traveler's Guide

The cost of a COVID-19 test in Belize varies depending on the type of test and the location. Rapid antigen tests are available at the airport in Belize for $50, while PCR tests can be done for $75. Some hotels and resorts, such as Grand Caribe, also offer on-site COVID-19 testing for their guests. It is important to note that as of July 12, 2022, a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required to enter Belize, however, it is still mandatory for travellers returning to the US and Canada.

COVID-19 testing requirements for entering Belize

Belize has been praised for its sensible approach to reopening its borders during the COVID-19 pandemic. The country has implemented several rules to protect both travellers and locals, including new certifications and safety procedures for hotels, restaurants, and other businesses serving travellers.

Proof of a Negative COVID-19 Test

Before arriving in Belize, travellers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 96 hours of departure. This requirement applies regardless of vaccination status.

Testing Options

Travellers can choose between antigen and PCR testing. Antigen testing is widely available at a lower cost and provides results within 15 minutes, whereas PCR testing is more comprehensive but may take longer.

Testing Centres in Belize

Testing centres are conveniently located at major travel hubs, including the Philip S. Goldson International Airport and regional airports in San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) and Placencia (Southeast). Testing is also available in Dangriga, Hopkins, and San Ignacio.

On-Site Testing at Airports

Some testing centres, such as the one at the Philip S. Goldson International Airport, offer on-site testing for travellers. It is recommended to schedule an appointment ahead of time or arrive at the airport at least 45 minutes before the flight to allow sufficient time for testing.

Testing Costs

Simple antigen testing typically costs $75 or less, while PCR testing may be more expensive. Testing fees vary by location and service provider.

Testing for Returning Travellers

Belize also requires proof of a negative COVID-19 test for travellers departing the country, especially those returning to the United States. Testing must be done within a specified timeframe before the return flight, usually 24 to 72 hours beforehand.

Vaccination Status

As of April 5, 2022, COVID-19 testing is limited to travellers who are not fully vaccinated or cannot show proof of vaccination. Fully vaccinated persons can enter Belize without testing via airport, land border, or seaport. However, individual countries may have their own testing requirements for incoming travellers, so it is essential to check and follow those guidelines.

Additional Requirements

In addition to COVID-19 testing, Belize has other entry requirements that travellers must meet. These may include providing proof of reservations at a certified "Gold Standard" accommodation and complying with social distancing and mask-wearing guidelines during their stay.

Testing options at the airport

Testing options are available at the airport for those who are unable to take a COVID-19 test before travelling to Belize. At the airport, you can take a rapid antigen test for $50. However, it is important to note that if you take the test at the airport, you will have to wait for your results before proceeding through immigration. If you test positive, you will be required to quarantine for a minimum of 14 days at your hotel, at your own expense.

If you are travelling to Belize, it is recommended that you take a COVID-19 PCR test within 96 hours of your flight or a rapid antigen test no more than 48 hours before travelling. You will need to upload your test results to the Belize Health App within 72 hours before departure.

Upon arrival at the airport in Belize, you will need to proceed to the health screening area to verify your certified COVID-19 test results. It is important to have a printed copy of your test results, as electronic copies may not be accepted. If you do not have your test results, you will be required to take a swab test at the airport's testing area for $50.

For those travelling onwards to the United States, a negative COVID-19 test result is required no more than 1 day before travel. The "Covid 19 test concierge" company offers testing services at your accommodation for $75 USD per person. They provide state-of-the-art mobile testing equipment and can provide electronic or printed results.

It is important to follow the testing requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth travel experience and to help keep everyone safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Testing options at regional airports

Philip S. Goldson International Airport (PGIA)

The Caring Hands Clinic Antigen Test Center is located in the Philip S. Goldson International Airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers. The clinic offers low-cost testing services, with simple antigen testing available for $75 or less, and more comprehensive PCR testing also available. The clinic is backed by local airline Maya Island Air, ensuring that the testing meets federal guidelines and standards.

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

Caring Hands also has a presence at the regional airport for San Pedro in Ambergris Caye, offering their low-cost testing services to travellers passing through.

Placencia, Southeast

In addition to the above, the Caring Hands Clinics are also available at the regional airport in Placencia, in the Southeast of the country.

Other locations

For those not travelling through the above airports, there are additional Caring Hands antigen testing centres in Dangriga, Hopkins, and San Ignacio.

Belize Medical Associates

Belize Medical Associates offer COVID-19 rapid swab testing at three sites across the country. Their opening hours are:

• Mondays to Fridays, 8 am to 6 pm
• Saturdays, 8 am to 1 pm
• Mondays to Saturdays, 8 am to 4 pm
• Sundays, 6:30 am to 3:30 pm
• Mondays to Fridays, 8 am to 5 pm
• Saturdays, 8 am to 12 pm

Testing options at other locations

The Caring Hands Clinic Antigen Test Center is located in the Philip S. Goldson International Airport, making it a convenient choice for people coming to or leaving the country. However, the clinic also has locations at regional airports for San Pedro in Ambergris Caye and Placencia in the Southeast. If you're not near an airport, you can find additional Caring Hands antigen testing centers in Dangriga, Hopkins, and San Ignacio.

The antigen testing offered by the Caring Hands Clinics is the only one of its kind in Belize, with a 97.1% accuracy rate. Results are displayed on a simple card within 15 minutes of taking the test, which involves a simple swab of the inside of your mouth. This testing method is approved by the FDA and compliant with both Belize national protocol and the Centers For Disease Control in the United States.

If you're looking to get tested before flying out of Belize, it's recommended that you schedule an appointment the day before your flight. While walk-ins are accepted, it's hard to predict how crowded the clinics will be. Alternatively, you can set aside 45 minutes before your flight to perform the testing, but keep in mind that if you're flying with Maya Air, you'll need to check in at the terminal an hour before your flight.

In addition to its convenient locations and quick and accurate testing methods, the Caring Hands Clinics also offer affordable pricing. Simple antigen testing costs $75 or less, and more comprehensive PCR testing is also available. You can conveniently book your testing when you book your flight through Maya Air.

Other options for testing in Belize include the "Covid 19 test concierge" company, which will come to your location to administer the test for $75 USD per person. You can schedule an appointment between 8 AM and 5.30 PM from Sunday to Saturday. Additionally, Grand Caribe Resort in Ambergris Caye offers on-site COVID-19 rapid antigen testing through its state-of-the-art, on-site medical facility.

Testing costs

Testing Before Arrival in Belize

Belize requires a negative COVID-19 test result within 96 hours of arrival. Alternatively, visitors can take a rapid test at the airport in Belize for $50.

Testing in Belize

The Caring Hands Clinic Antigen Test Center is a not-for-profit initiative offering low-cost testing services at the Philip S. Goldson International Airport and other major hubs across Belize. Antigen testing costs $75 or less, and PCR testing is also available.

Testing Before Departure from Belize

The US requires a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 no more than 24 hours before boarding a flight back. Testing is available on Caye Caulker for $75, with printed and certified copies of results available for pick-up within a few hours. Testing is also available in San Ignacio, where many resorts can help make arrangements.

Frequently asked questions