Exploring Belize: Entry Requirements And More

Belize is a small country on the northeastern coast of Central America, with a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine cayes (islands), crystal clear turquoise seawater, lush rainforests, mysterious Maya ruins, and awe-inspiring reefs. With a mix of Caribbean and Maya roots, Belize offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors and expats alike.

When planning a trip to Belize, it is important to consider the following:

- The length of your stay: Aim to spend at least a week to fully explore the country, splitting your time between Northern, Central, and Southern Belize.

- Visa requirements: While some countries may need a visa, many don't. It's important to verify the requirements for your specific nationality before travelling.

- Transportation: Rental cars are readily available and affordable, but it's best to drive during the day due to poorly lit roads and wildlife crossings.

- Food: Street food is abundant and relatively cheap, offering a variety of delicious options such as stews, rice and beans, and meat pies.

- Water: While tap water is generally safe to drink, filtered water is more commonly used and can be found in small bottles or from water dispensers.

- Pace of life: Belize offers a slow and laid-back atmosphere, so it's essential to be flexible and patient when dealing with government offices, transportation, and other services.

- Safety: Petty crime is the main safety concern, so it's important to avoid isolated areas, not flash valuables, and be cautious when using public transportation at night.

- Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping is common in the tourism industry, and it is customary to tip servers, tour guides, and housekeeping staff for exceptional service.

- Currency: US dollars are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry smaller denominations for easier transactions and change.

- Weather: Belize's rainy season runs from June to November, coinciding with the Atlantic hurricane season. However, this can be a great time to visit as hotel rates are lower, and most attractions remain open unless there are extreme weather conditions.

- Travel insurance: It is recommended to purchase travel insurance, especially when visiting during the rainy season, to protect yourself in case of any unforeseen circumstances or hurricanes.

- Marijuana laws: While marijuana use has been decriminalized for adults on private property, it is still illegal to sell, grow, or smoke weed in public.

- LGBTIQ+ community: Homosexuality is legal in Belize, and the main tourism zones, such as Ambergris Caye, are generally considered gay-friendly.

- Women travellers: Belize is relatively safe for women travelling alone, although some cat-calling and harassment may occur. Standing your ground and firmly saying no is usually respected.

Visa requirements

The visa requirements for entering Belize vary depending on the traveller's nationality and the intended duration of their stay. Here is a detailed overview of the visa requirements:

Visa Exemption for Short Stays

Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, Canada, and countries in the Schengen area, are exempt from obtaining a visa for visits to Belize that do not exceed 30 days. This exemption also applies to holders of valid multiple-entry visas or Permanent Residence Cards from these countries. However, it is important to note that visa-exempt travellers may still need to present a valid passport, proof of onward or return travel, and sufficient funds to cover their stay.

Tourist Visa for Longer Stays

For visits exceeding 30 days, travellers will need to obtain a Belize entry visa or a Belize Visitor's Permit Extension. This typically involves visiting an Immigration Office in Belize and providing the necessary documentation, such as a valid passport, proof of funds, and payment of applicable fees. The exact requirements and fees may vary depending on the traveller's nationality and the intended duration of their stay.

Sponsored Visas

In some cases, travellers may be eligible for a sponsored visa if they are sponsored by a Belizean citizen or permanent resident. This typically requires additional documentation, such as a Letter of Financial Support, the sponsor's identification, and proof of kinship or relationship.

Transit Visas

For those transiting through Belize, a visa may or may not be required, depending on the traveller's nationality and the duration of their stay. It is important to check the specific requirements for their country of origin.

Entry Requirements for Minors

When travelling with minors, additional documentation may be required, such as birth certificates and notarized letters of consent from both parents. These requirements may vary depending on the country of origin, so it is essential to check before travelling.

Health Requirements

While Belize does not require specific immunizations for entry, it is recommended that travellers consult the latest health advice and ensure their routine vaccinations are up to date. Additionally, some countries, such as Australia, require a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate for entry into Belize.

Other Considerations

It is important to note that visa requirements and entry conditions can change, so it is always advisable to check with the Belizean Immigration authorities or the nearest Belizean Embassy, Consulate, or High Commission before travelling. Additionally, travellers should be aware of local laws and customs regulations, as certain items, such as pre-Columbian artefacts, may be restricted or prohibited.

Transportation options

There are lots of transportation options to enter Belize and get around the country. The easiest and most popular way to enter Belize is by flying into the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. There are five major US airlines and five other airlines that fly into Belize. From Europe, American Airlines offers a flight that departs London Heathrow with a short connection in Miami before landing in Belize City.

Once in Belize, you can get around by plane, bus, water taxi, boat, car, or even kayak. Domestic flights are one of the fastest and easiest ways to get around Belize, with Tropic Air and Maya Island Air serving various destinations within the country.

Belize also has a good bus system that is both inexpensive and reliable. Buses can be caught at bus terminals or flagged down on the roadside. The major bus stations in the country are in Belmopan, Belize City, San Ignacio, Benque, Dangriga, Placencia, and Punta Gorda.

Taking a taxi in Belize is a convenient option for shorter distances. Taxi companies operate out of all cities and larger towns, and their vehicles are easy to identify with their green license plates.

Renting a car in Belize is a great option for self-guided travel, as the country has a well-planned highway and road system. Car rental agencies are based in Belize City, as well as at the international airport and other larger tourist destinations.

Water taxis and boat charters are commonly used to get around Belize's numerous cayes. Water taxis make regularly scheduled trips between Belize City, Caye Caulker, and San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. There are also daily charters to and from neighbouring countries.

Safety advice

Belize is a beautiful country to visit, but it's important to be aware of potential safety risks. Here are some detailed safety tips to keep in mind when entering and travelling around Belize:

• Exercise Increased Caution: The US State Department advises travellers to exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common, even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. The south side of Belize City, in particular, is known for its high levels of gang-related violence and should be avoided if possible.
• Be Vigilant: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting banks or ATMs. Avoid walking or driving at night, and try to stay in well-lit and populated areas.
• Avoid Displaying Wealth: Do not wear expensive jewellery or watches, and try to be discreet with your possessions. Leave valuables in a hotel safe if possible.
• Enroll in STEP: Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for authorities to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow Authorities' Advice: Follow the recommendations of local authorities and stay informed about any security updates or travel advisories.
• Prepare for Emergencies: Have a contingency plan in place and review the Traveler's Checklist provided by the relevant authorities.
• Health Precautions: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date, and consider getting additional vaccinations recommended for travel to Belize. Be aware of insect-borne diseases such as Zika, chikungunya, malaria, and dengue fever. Drink boiled or bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
• Scams and Theft: Be vigilant against scams and theft, especially in tourist areas and when using ATMs or credit cards. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
• Transportation: Use licensed and reputable transportation services, and avoid travelling alone at night. When driving, keep windows closed and doors locked. If renting a car, ensure you have an International Driving Permit.
• LGBTQIA+ Travellers: While same-sex relationships have been decriminalised, LGBTQIA+ travellers may still face discrimination and violence in some regions. Avoid public displays of affection, especially outside of tourist-friendly areas.
• Natural Disasters: Monitor local weather reports and stay informed about hurricane seasons and other natural disasters. Be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
• Water Activities: If you plan to participate in water sports or scuba diving, ensure you have the proper safety equipment and that your tour operator is well-established and reputable.
• Food and Water Precautions: Practise safe food and water precautions. Wash your hands frequently and avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Legal Awareness: Familiarise yourself with local laws and customs. Belize has strict regulations regarding pre-Columbian artefacts and photography of official buildings.
• Border Crossings: When crossing borders by road, use only official border crossings and avoid travelling at night.
• Women Travellers: Women travelling alone may encounter harassment and verbal abuse. Take extra precautions, especially after dark, and avoid unlit areas.
• Medical Services: Good quality medical care may be limited outside of major cities. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Border crossings

There is only one land border crossing between Belize and Mexico. The closest towns on either side are Santa Elena (Belize) and Subteniente Lopez (Mexico). However, it is also possible to cross the border by boat.

Subteniente Lopez International Bridge (by bus/vehicle)

This bridge marks the only land border crossing between Belize and Mexico. The closest towns on either side are Santa Elena (Belize) and Subteniente Lopez (Mexico). Bigger towns that are transportation hubs on either side are Corozol (Belize) and Chetumal (Mexico).

Chetumal Ferry Terminal (by boat)

There are several water taxis running from Caye Caulker and San Pedro islands in Belize to Chetumal, Mexico. You will go through immigration at the ferry terminal in Chetumal.

The Belize–Guatemala border is an almost straight line 266 km (165 mi) long, close to the 89th meridian west, which separates the west of Belize's territory from Guatemala. There is one main highway crossing of the border, at Benque Viejo del Carmen, Cayo District, Belize and Melchor de Mencos, Peten, Guatemala, where Guatemala Highway CA-13 meets the George Price (Western) Highway, connecting to Belize City and Belmopan.

Local laws

Belize has strict laws regarding the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Repeat offenders can expect heavy fines and jail time.

It is illegal to carry pre-Columbian artefacts without a permit, and to photograph official buildings.

Belize is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. You must obtain a permit to collect, possess or export plant and animal products.

Belize has the death penalty for serious crimes, such as treason and murder.

Belize has strict penalties for drug offences, including long sentences in local jails.

Belize's legal system is cumbersome and not always transparent. If you are arrested, even for a minor incident, you should expect lengthy delays to resolve your case and you may not be allowed to leave the country.

Belizean law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, but homosexuality is not widely socially accepted. LGBTQIA+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Belize and avoid public displays of affection.

Frequently asked questions