Covid Testing In Belize: Where And How To Get Tested

If you're travelling to Belize, you'll need to take a COVID-19 test before you arrive and after you leave. The type of test and how long before travel you need to take it depends on where you're travelling from and where you're going.

For example, if you're travelling from the US, you'll need to show a negative test result no more than one day old before boarding your flight. If you're travelling to the US, you'll need to get a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 96 hours of travel or a negative result from an approved antigen rapid test within 48 hours of travel.

You can get tested at the airport in Belize for $50, but it's recommended that you bring an accepted test with you to speed up the arrival process.

Where to get a COVID test in Belize

As of May 2022, some COVID testing requirements remain in place for those travelling to and from Belize. If you are returning to the United States from Belize, you are required to show a negative test result no older than one day before boarding your flight. This rule applies to children over the age of two.

If you need to take a COVID test in Belize, you can visit one of the approved testing sites set up by the Ministry of Health and Wellness at medical centres throughout the country. All major settlements and tourist areas, such as San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, Belize City, Placencia, Hopkins, and San Ignacio, have one or more sites where you can get tested. Testing sites are also located at Maya Island Air municipal airports, where you can get either a PCR or antigen (rapid) test before catching your return flight.

Testing sites in Belize

• Belize City – 218 Cor. Leslie Ave & Meighan Ave
• San Pedro – 2 Miles North San Pedro
• Caye Caulker – Biciaco Ave (On the Beach)
• San Ignacio – Savannah St (Across from Market)
• Placencia – Bruk Pot Alley (Next to the Post office)
• Hopkins – Seafront St. (Behind Drumming Center on the Beach)

What to expect at the clinic

If you have not taken a COVID test before, the prospect may seem scary or daunting, but there is nothing to fear. Although the tests can be briefly uncomfortable, they are not painful. They are done via a quick nasal swab and take only a few minutes to complete, with results coming in as few as 20 minutes. For your convenience, your provider will give you the test result by both print and e-mail, along with the affidavit declaration you will need to present in order to board your flight.

There are two types of COVID-19 tests: PCR and antigen (also known as rapid) tests. Both are effective and meet the testing requirement. Tests cost $75 USD for a rapid test and $200 for a PCR test at Caring Hands Clinics. Keep an eye out for special discounts through social media or Maya Island Air.

Cost of a COVID test in Belize

The cost of a COVID-19 test in Belize depends on the type of test you require and the facility where you take the test. As of May 2022, if you are travelling to the United States from Belize, you will need to present a negative test result no older than 24 hours before boarding your flight.

Rapid Antigen Test

The cost of a rapid antigen test in Belize is around $75 USD. Belize Medical Associates, located in Belize City, offers rapid testing for BZD$200 (approximately $100 USD) with results available in 2 hours. Belize Health Care Partners, also in Belize City, offers rapid testing for BZD$150 (approximately $75 USD).

PCR Test

The cost of a PCR test in Belize is higher than that of a rapid antigen test. At Caring Hands Clinics, a PCR test costs $200 USD.

It is important to note that testing requirements and prices may change over time, so it is recommended to check the latest information from official sources before your travel.

What to do if you test positive in Belize

If you test positive for COVID-19 in Belize, you will be placed in a minimum 14-day quarantine at your hotel, at your own expense, until the Ministry of Health gives you clearance to leave. The Ministry of Health also reserves the right to test and quarantine you if you show any symptoms during your stay.

The doctor or nurse at the clinic will follow protocols set forth by the Ministry of Health and Wellness to get you safely isolated and provide treatment.

How to get a COVID test in Belize if you're leaving the country

If you're leaving Belize and need to get a COVID test, here's what you need to know:

Testing Requirements:

Firstly, it's important to know the testing requirements for your destination country. For example, if you're returning to the United States, a negative test result is required no more than one day before your flight. This rule applies to children over the age of two, while children under two are exempt. If you've recovered from COVID-19 within the last 90 days, you won't need to take a test, but vaccination does not exempt you from this testing requirement.

Approved Testing Sites:

The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize has set up testing sites throughout the country in collaboration with private health providers. Major settlements and tourist areas, such as San Pedro, Belize City, Placencia, Hopkins, and San Ignacio, have multiple sites where you can get tested. Testing is also available at Maya Island Air municipal airports, offering both PCR and antigen (rapid) tests. All providers are licensed and certified by the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

Testing Procedure:

The COVID-19 test is a quick nasal swab that is briefly uncomfortable but not painful. The test takes only a few minutes, and results are typically available within 20 minutes. You will receive your results in print and electronic formats, along with the affidavit declaration needed for boarding your flight. Both PCR and antigen (rapid) tests meet the testing requirement for most countries.

Cost:

The cost of testing varies depending on the facility and the type of test. Rapid tests typically cost around $75 USD, while PCR tests can range from $200 USD and above. Keep an eye out for special discounts through social media or Maya Island Air.

Positive Test Results:

If you receive a positive test result, follow the protocols set by the Ministry of Health and Wellness. This will involve safe isolation and treatment. Contact your accommodation and airline to discuss any necessary changes to your travel plans and explore options for rescheduling or refunds.

Timing:

It is recommended to schedule your test as soon as possible to guarantee your spot and travel with peace of mind. Keep in mind that test results are typically valid for a limited period, such as 1-3 days before your flight, so plan your test accordingly.

Requirements for entering Belize

To enter Belize, you must follow the requirements established by the Government of Belize (GOB) and the Belize Tourist Board (BTB). These requirements are designed to keep international guests and local citizens safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Testing and Quarantine Requirements:

• All inbound travellers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding their flight to Belize or a rapid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before travel.
• Upload your negative test results to the Belize Health App within 72 hours before departure.
• If you arrive in Belize without test results, you will need to undergo testing at the airport's testing area for a fee of $50. You must then self-isolate at your accommodations until you receive your results.
• If you test positive during your trip, you will be placed in a mandatory 14-day quarantine at your hotel at your own expense. You will need two negative PCR tests to be cleared from quarantine.

Documentation and Vaccination Requirements:

• A passport valid for at least 30 to 60 days is required for entry.
• Vaccination is not mandatory for entry, but if you can provide documentation showing recovery from COVID-19 within the last 90 days, you will be exempt from pre-arrival testing requirements.

Gold Standard Recognition Program:

• Only hotels, resorts, and tour operators certified through the Belize Tourism Board's Gold Standard Program are allowed to accept visitors.
• This program includes nine points, such as daily health and temperature checks for guests and employees, social distancing, the use of face masks in public spaces, enhanced cleaning, and sanitization protocols.

Airport Protocols:

• Face masks/coverings are mandatory throughout the airport, including during landing, deplaning, and arrival processes.
• Temperature checks will be conducted using non-contact digital infrared thermometers or thermal imaging cameras.
• Social distancing must be maintained in queues for health checks, immigration, and customs inspections.
• Utilise the sanitising stations placed throughout the airport to frequently sanitise your hands.
• Download the free Belize Health App and complete the necessary information within 72 hours before arrival. A unique QR code will be provided, which you must present to health authorities upon arrival.

Additional Requirements:

• Make reservations with government-approved tour operators if you plan to dive Belize's Caribbean coastline.
• A curfew is currently in place in Belize between 8 pm and 5 am daily.
• All Belizean laws, including COVID-19 laws, must be obeyed during your stay.

Frequently asked questions