Belize Residency: Your Guide To Getting Approved

Belize is a popular destination for expats, retirees, and digital nomads, offering a blend of travel and investment opportunities. The country's immigration laws are straightforward, and it offers two types of residence status: Permanent Residence and Temporary Residence. Obtaining residency in Belize requires meeting specific requirements and providing necessary documentation. Here's an overview of the process to help you understand how to get Belize residency.

Requirements for permanent residency

Belize offers two types of residence status: Permanent Residence and Temporary Residence. This answer will focus on the requirements for Permanent Residence.

To be eligible for Permanent Residence in Belize, you must have been legally residing in the country for a minimum of one year at the time of submitting your application. During this year, you must not have left the country for more than 14 days in total.

• Proof of Financial Stability: You must provide evidence to the Immigration Office that you have been and will continue to be financially stable during your stay in Belize. This can be demonstrated through employment in Belize, income from outside Belize, or by providing a copy of your bank account statements.
• Valid Passport: Your passport must indicate an arrival date to Belize, with the arrival stamp at least one year prior to submitting your application. If the required stamp is not in your current passport, you must submit your previous passport(s).
• Medical Certificate and Tests: You and your accompanying dependents (spouse and children aged 16 years and above) must submit a Residence Medical Examination Form completed by a Licensed Medical Practitioner in Belize, including HIV, VDRL, and TB test results.
• Police Record: You and your accompanying dependents (spouse and children aged 16 years and above) must submit an individual police record from Belize, valid for only six months from the date of issue.
• Spouse and Child's Documentation: If your spouse is accompanying you, you must submit a registered marriage certificate. If your spouse is not gainfully employed, a letter of financial support must be included in the application. If your spouse is employed, they must submit their Temporary Employment Permit and all relevant supporting documentation, including their Social Security Card. For each accompanying child, you must submit a letter of financial support, a letter of authorisation/consent from the parent not making the application, and a copy of that parent's identification.
• Photographs: You and your dependents must provide two photographs each, sized 2 x 2 inches and taken within the last six months.

The application process for Permanent Residence in Belize involves several steps, including interviews with the Immigration and Police Departments, notification of approval, payment of fees, and the pickup of the residency card. The process can take a year or longer to complete, and it is important to remain patient and persistent throughout.

Temporary residency options

Belize offers two types of residence status: Permanent Residence and Temporary Residence.

Temporary Residence is for those who have made or are in the process of making a substantial commercial investment in Belize but cannot meet the ordinary Permanent Residence restrictions due to commitments outside of Belize.

Qualified Retired Persons Incentive Program (QRP)

The QRP is a retirement program run by the Belize Tourist Board. It requires a minimum age of 45 and proof of a monthly income of at least $2,000 from a pension or investment fund outside Belize. The program fee is $1,000 for the applicant and $750 for each dependent, with an additional membership card fee of $200. Renewal is $25 per person annually. Benefits include duty-free importation of personal items and tax exemptions on income from outside Belize.

Temporary Investor's Residence Program

This program is for entrepreneurs who have made business investments in Belize valued at a minimum of BZ$500,000 ($250,000). The application fee is under $2,000 for non-residents, with an additional payment due after approval, which varies depending on the applicant's nationality. The application process can take up to 6 months or more, as it depends on obtaining a security clearance.

Temporary Employment Permit (Work Permit)

The Temporary Employment Permit allows individuals to remain in Belize for up to one year and work for a specific employer. The cost of the permit varies depending on the type of work and can be found at local stationers. The application process can take anywhere from three weeks to three months. The permit must be renewed annually.

Tourist Visa

The Tourist Visa is granted upon entering the country and is valid for 30 days. It can be extended for an additional 30, 60, or 90 days, for an indefinite period, at a cost of $100 per 30-day period. Extensions can be obtained from the nearest Immigration Office.

The Qualified Retirement Program

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the QRP, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 40 or 45 years old (varies according to source)
• Have a spouse and/or children under 18 years as dependents
• Have an annual retirement income of $24,000 or $2,000 monthly from a source outside Belize
• Provide a written undertaking to deposit the requisite amount in a bank, credit union, or licensed financial institution in Belize
• Pass a security clearance check carried out by the Ministry of National Security in Belize
• Be able to remain in Belize for a minimum of 30 consecutive days annually
• Be a citizen of a qualifying country, including:
• All Commonwealth countries (excluding Belize)
• The United States of America
• Member States of the European Union
• Asian-Pacific countries (Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam)
• All South American Countries

Benefits of the QRP

The QRP offers several benefits to those who qualify, including:

• Belize Residency Status: QRPs and their dependents receive residency status and can enter Belize multiple times without a visa. The resident card must be renewed annually.
• Duty and Tax Exemptions: QRPs are exempt from import duties and taxes on household and personal effects, motor vehicles (models within the last 5 years), light aircraft (weighing less than 17,000 kg), and motorboats. They are also exempt from capital gains tax and inheritance tax on income from sources outside Belize.
• Ease of Purchasing Land: QRPs are entitled to purchase land for constructing a home or buying a home for residential use only.
• Employment and Business Opportunities: Dependents of QRPs may access jobs in Belize and continue business operations outside the country. They can also invest in Belize and practice philanthropy.

Application Process and Costs

The application process for the QRP involves the following steps:

• Pay a non-refundable application program fee of BZ$150 (approximately $74.41) per application.
• Submit the required documents, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, police records, passport pages, proof of income, bank statements, medical certificates, and passport photos.
• Wait for the application to be processed by the Belize Tourism Board in collaboration with the Ministry of National Security and the Department of Immigration and Nationality.
• Once accepted, pay a non-refundable sum of $1,000 to the Belize Tourism Board.
• Pay $200 for the QRP residence card and $25 for each renewal.

The application process typically takes between 1 to 2 months, and the fees are non-refundable. It's important to note that the QRP is a "retirement" program, and QRPs are not allowed to work for a company with offices in Belize. However, they can work online for offshore clients located in countries other than Belize.

Application process

Belize offers two types of residence status: Permanent Residence and Temporary Residence.

Permanent Residence

To be eligible for permanent residence in Belize, you must have been legally residing in the country for a minimum of one year at the time of submitting your application. During this year, you must not have left the country for more than 14 days in total.

The application process for permanent residence in Belize involves the following steps:

• Submit the required documents, including a medical certificate, proof of financial stability, and spouse and child's documentation.
• Attend an interview with the Immigration Department.
• Undergo a medical examination and submit the necessary tests, such as HIV, VDRL, and TB tests.
• Provide a police record from Belize for yourself and any accompanying dependents (spouse and children over 16 years of age).
• Demonstrate proof of financial stability by providing employment details, business ownership documentation, or bank statements.
• Pay the application fee, which varies depending on the applicant's nationality (e.g., $2,000 for US citizens).
• Wait for the notification of approval and complete any additional requirements.
• Pick up your residency card.

Temporary Residence

Temporary residence is typically granted to individuals who have made or are in the process of making substantial commercial investments in Belize but cannot meet the permanent residence restrictions due to commitments outside the country.

To obtain temporary residence in Belize, follow these steps:

• Pay the basic legal fee of $1,535 plus 12.5% General Sales Tax (GST) and any additional costs.
• Provide copies and originals of the required documentation, including a valid passport, police record, letter to the Immigration Office Director, proof of residence in Belize, and details of investments in Belize valued at a minimum of BZ$500,000 ($250,000).
• Wait for up to 6 months or more for the application process to be completed, including security clearance.
• Upon approval, pay the temporary residence fee to receive your permit.
• Renew your residence permit annually, as it terminates on the expiration date if not renewed.

Benefits of Belize residency

Belize is a small country in Central America with a population of just under 700,000 people. It is a diverse and beautiful country, making it an ideal place for anyone looking to retire or relocate. Here are some of the benefits of obtaining residency in Belize:

Visa-Free Entry and Straightforward Immigration Process:

Belize offers visa-free entry for citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, EU, UK, Caribbean, and Central America. Upon arrival, visitors are typically granted an automatic 30-day tourist visa, which can be extended multiple times for an additional fee. This makes it easy for tourists to stay in the country for extended periods.

Affordable Cost of Living:

Belize offers a low cost of living compared to other Caribbean and North American countries. Expats can live comfortably on a budget of around $1,400 per month. Additionally, the country has stunning beachfront properties available at affordable prices.

Tropical Weather and Diverse Scenery:

Belize boasts year-round warm weather, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tropical climate. The country also offers diverse scenery, from white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush jungles and ancient Mayan ruins.

Accessible Residency and Retirement Programs:

Belize has an accessible residency program that allows individuals to become legal residents by simply showing up and paying a monthly extension fee. The country also offers the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP), which grants residency to individuals over 45 with a monthly retirement income of at least $2,000. This program offers additional benefits, such as duty-free importation of personal items and tax exemptions.

Tax Benefits:

Belize offers several tax advantages for residents, including tax-free international business operations through its International Business Company (IBC) structure. Additionally, tax residents are subject to a 12.5% goods and services tax (GST), with exemptions on certain food and medical items. The personal income tax rate is a flat 25%, with the first $15,000 or so and pension income exempt.

Ease of Travel and Simplified Bureaucracy:

Permanent residency in Belize can facilitate easier travel between countries and simplify bureaucratic procedures for various administrative tasks, such as obtaining a driver's license or opening a bank account. Permanent residents no longer need to renew their visas every month or year.

English as the Official Language:

Belize is the only country in the region with English as its official language, making it a convenient choice for English speakers looking to relocate. This also makes it easier for expats to navigate daily life, communicate with locals, and access information.

Thriving Expat Community and Volunteer Opportunities:

Belize has a thriving expat community, making it easier for newcomers to connect and integrate. The country also offers numerous volunteer opportunities for those who want to contribute to local communities and make a positive impact.

Laid-back Lifestyle and Outdoor Activities:

Belize offers a laid-back lifestyle, providing residents with a peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of city life. The country is known for its outdoor sports and hobbies, such as diving and snorkelling, catering to those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Dual Citizenship:

Belize allows dual citizenship, so individuals becoming citizens of Belize do not need to give up their home country citizenship. This provides the benefit of holding two passports and enjoying the advantages of both countries.

Frequently asked questions