Belize: A Haven For Us Expats

Belize is accepting US citizens, but the US State Department advises travellers to exercise increased caution due to crime. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, is common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related, and local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. Tourists are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City, where gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings, are prevalent.

US citizens can stay in Belize for up to one month with no fee and without a visa. After 30 days, a fee of $100 USD per month is required for monthly extensions. There are various residency programs available, including the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) for those aged 45 and above (soon to be lowered to 40) who can prove a monthly income of $2,000 or more. US citizens can also become citizens of Belize, with a waiting period of one year for those married to a Belizean citizen, and five years for others.

Belize's crime rate

Belize has a high rate of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, which occur even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. The country has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. Gang-related violence is common, particularly in Belize City's Southside area, where clashes between gangs fighting for control of territories are frequent.

The police in Belize lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, and most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. Tourists are advised to exercise caution, particularly when travelling to the Southside of Belize City, and to avoid travelling after dark.

In 2022, Belize registered 113 murder victims, a 9.6% reduction compared to 2021. The murder rate per 100,000 population has been on a downward trend over the last decade, reaching 25.6 homicides per 100,000 population in 2022, although this is still above the regional average of 18.3.

While the overall number of murders decreased in 2022, most other major crimes, including sexual violence and unlawful sexual intercourse, increased compared to the previous year. Reported instances of rape doubled, and unlawful sexual intercourse rose by 30.4%. Young people between the ages of 18 and 29 were the primary victims of homicide, with firearms being the main weapon used.

In addition to violent crime, petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching also occurs in Belize, with tourists often being targeted, especially in resort areas. Credit card and ATM fraud are also common, especially in San Pedro.

Belize's visa requirements for US citizens

Belize is a beautiful country to visit, but it is important to be aware of the visa requirements before planning your trip. Here is some detailed information about Belize's visa requirements for US citizens:

Visa Requirements for US Citizens:

• US citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Belize if their stay is 30 days or less. However, they must have a valid US passport, proof of an onward or return ticket, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their stay.
• For stays longer than 30 days, US citizens must visit a local immigration office to extend their stay. They will need to get a "Belize Visitor's Permit Extension" and pay an additional fee for each additional month, up to six months.
• If US citizens plan to stay longer than six months, they may need to provide further documentation to the local immigration office, explaining the reason for their extended stay. They may also need to pay additional fees.
• US citizens travelling with children may be asked to show birth certificates and documentation authorizing travel for the children, especially if they are not travelling with both parents.
• There are no known HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Belize, but it is recommended to verify this information with the Embassy of Belize before travelling.
• US citizens should be aware of the high crime rate in Belize, including violent crimes such as sexual assault, robberies, and murders, even in tourist areas. It is important to follow safety recommendations provided by official sources.
• Belize has specific requirements for prescription medications, so US citizens travelling with prescription medications should ensure they follow these guidelines.
• US citizens should also be aware of the presence of the Zika virus in Belize and take necessary precautions.
• Additionally, there are requirements and recommendations for vaccinations before travelling to Belize, which should be reviewed before planning a trip.

Belize's residency requirements for US citizens

Belize has a wide range of visa and residency options for US citizens. Here is a detailed overview of the requirements for US citizens seeking residency in Belize:

Tourist Visa:

US citizens can enter Belize without a visa and are granted a 30-day visa upon arrival. This visa can be extended for an additional 30, 60, or 90 days for an indefinite period. The extension costs $100 for each 30-day period and can be obtained from the nearest Immigration Office. To apply for an extension, it is recommended to have the following documents:

• Completed visa extension form
• Proof of a purchased return airline ticket or a lease agreement with your name on it
• A current bank statement showing sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
• Original birth certificates for any children included in the extension application

Temporary Employment Permit (Work Permit):

If you plan to work or start a business in Belize, you must apply for a Temporary Employment Permit. The application process involves three steps:

• Apply online at the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government. If you are employed by a company, they will apply for the work permit on your behalf.
• Once approved, you will receive a letter detailing the next steps, including visiting your local immigration office and paying the work permit fee (usually $1,500). Your passport will be endorsed, allowing you to work in Belize for up to one year with a specific employer.
• Visit your local Belize Social Security office and apply for a social security card, which is valid for one year.

Qualified Retirement Program (QRP):

The QRP is a residency program for retirees offered by the Belize Tourism Board. To be eligible, you must be over 45 years of age and demonstrate a monthly retirement income of at least $2,000. The program includes benefits such as zero-duty importation on vehicles, personal items, marine vessels, and light aircraft during the first year. The fees for this program include an application fee of $150, a fee of $1,000 for the applicant, and $750 for each dependent, as well as $200 per person for ID cards. The annual renewal fee is $25 per person.

Permanent Residency:

To apply for permanent residency in Belize, you must have resided in the country for at least 365 days, with no more than 14 days spent outside the country during that period. The application requirements include demonstrating financial stability, providing a medical certificate and tests, and submitting proof of no criminal convictions. The application fee for US citizens is $1,000 per person, and the total process can take up to a year or longer.

Citizenship:

After being a permanent resident of Belize for at least five years, you may qualify for citizenship. The requirements include not spending more than 30 consecutive days or three months out of the country during any given 12-month period within those five years. The application process involves submitting the required documents, attending an interview, and paying a citizenship fee of $150.

Belize's safety advice for US citizens

Belize is currently rated as a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution country by the US Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs. This is due to the high levels of violent crime throughout the country, including in tourist areas, and the limited capacity of the local police to respond to serious criminal incidents. Here is some safety advice for US citizens considering travelling to Belize:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid travelling after dark. Violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common, even during daylight hours.
• Avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City, south of the Haulover Creek River, due to gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings. Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world.
• Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches, jewellery, or carrying large amounts of cash. Keep valuables out of sight.
• Be vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Criminals frequently target tourists, including those at resorts and on the roads and waterways.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Hand over your cash and valuables without resistance if you are threatened.
• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business. Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN.
• Be cautious when using credit or debit cards. Pay close attention when your cards are being handled by others and check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements.
• Avoid accepting rides or similar invitations from strangers.
• Avoid isolated areas such as unlit alleys and unsupervised beaches.
• Do not leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Snacks, beverages, gum, and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
• Follow the advice of your hotel and local authorities and monitor local media for updates on the security situation.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Belize and prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.
• Obtain appropriate medical and travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays. Good health care is very limited in availability and medical facilities may lack equipment and adequately trained professionals.
• Carry prescription medication in its original packaging and ensure you have enough for your trip. Some prescription medications may not be available in Belize.
• Be aware of the risks associated with driving in Belize, including poor road conditions, reckless driving, and a lack of emergency road assistance. Driving conditions may be especially hazardous during the rainy season.
• Only use registered taxis with green licence plates.
• Monitor local weather updates and be aware of the hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November.

Belize's tourist attractions for US citizens

Belize is a small country, covering about 9,000 square miles. However, it is packed with natural beauty and fascinating ancient sites. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Belize for US citizens:

Ambergris Caye & Hol Chan Marine Reserve

This laid-back island is the largest of Belize's 400-plus cayes and a hot spot for tourists. Ambergris Caye offers plenty of outdoor activities, including snorkelling and scuba diving. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve, located off the coast of Ambergris Caye, is one of seven reserves within the Belize Barrier Reef system, the second largest in the world after Australia's Great Barrier Reef. The reserve features crystal-clear waters and an abundance of sea life, making it a prime spot for snorkelling and diving.

Lighthouse Reef Atoll and the Blue Hole

Lighthouse Reef Atoll is the farthest of Belize's three atolls from the shore and is a paradise for nature lovers and divers. It features six cays surrounding a turquoise lagoon, with white-sand beaches, coconut palms, and fascinating coral formations. The Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a giant marine sinkhole that can be seen from outer space. Visitors can plunge into the blue hole to discover ancient stalactites and coral reefs or take a helicopter tour to admire the natural wonder from above.

Placencia Peninsula

Placencia is a popular fishing village and beach resort nestled on a 26-kilometer sandy peninsula. It offers some of the best beaches in Belize, excellent seafood restaurants, and a variety of water activities such as fishing, kayaking, diving, and snorkelling. The nearby Laughing Bird Caye National Park is another protected area of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, ideal for swimming, snorkelling, sea kayaking, and diving.

Turneffe Islands Atoll

Turneffe Islands Atoll is a paradise for divers and anglers, encompassing over 200 mangrove islands surrounding a lagoon. It features crystalline flats, creeks, and lagoons, as well as a diverse range of marine life, including grouper, snapper, and trunkfish. The atoll is also home to the famed bonefish, attracting saltwater fly fishing enthusiasts from around the world.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers, protecting a diverse array of wildlife, including jaguars, ocelots, pumas, anteaters, tapirs, monkeys, and snakes. The preserve is also a bird-watcher's paradise, with sightings of over 300 avian species, including toucans and scarlet macaws. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through an extensive network of trails, such as the Waterfall Trail, Ben's Bluff Trail, and Tiger Fern Trail.

Lamanai Archaeological Reserve

Lamanai, nestled in the lush jungle on the banks of the New River, is one of the most famous archaeological sites in northern Belize. It was the longest-occupied Mayan site, featuring over 900 structures, a museum, and ancient artefacts. The site can be reached via an adventurous boat ride up the New River, providing frequent wildlife sightings along the way.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Belize has to offer. US citizens should, however, be aware of the high levels of violent crime throughout the country and exercise increased caution, especially when travelling to the south side of Belize City.

Frequently asked questions