Belize Opens To International Travel

Belize is currently allowing international travel, but travellers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of violent crime, including gang-related violence, murder, armed robbery, home invasions, mugging, and sexual assault. Tourists are not usually targeted, but it is advised to be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid travelling after dark. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Belize, recommending that travellers exercise increased caution due to crime. Additionally, there is a Level 3 Advisory for Belize City, recommending that U.S. citizens avoid travelling to the area due to gang-related violent crime.

Entry requirements for international travel to Belize

Belize is currently allowing international travel, but travellers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of violent crime. Here are the entry requirements for international travel to Belize:

Passport Requirements:

Before travelling to Belize, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your expected departure date. It is also recommended to have a copy of your passport in case the original is lost or seized. Additionally, check with your transportation company about their specific passport requirements, as these may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Visa Requirements:

For stays of up to 30 days, tourists from certain countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, do not require a visa. However, for stays exceeding 30 days, you must apply for a visa from the local immigration office in major towns and cities. You will need to have your passport re-stamped and pay an additional fee for each additional month, up to six months. For visits longer than six months, further documentation and additional fees may be required.

Health Requirements:

There are no specific immunizations required for entry into Belize. However, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and ensure that your routine vaccinations are up to date. Additionally, some countries may require proof of a negative COVID-19 test or vaccination before allowing entry. Be sure to check the latest travel advice for your country of origin.

Customs Requirements:

Upon arrival in Belize, customs officials may ask to see proof of a return or onward ticket, as well as evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay. If you are travelling with children, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as birth certificates and notarized consent letters.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no specific currency restrictions mentioned for entry into Belize. However, it is advisable to declare any amounts exceeding the equivalent of BZ$10,000.

Other Considerations:

Belize has strict regulations regarding the possession of pre-Columbian artefacts and the photography of official buildings. It is important to research and comply with all local laws and regulations to avoid legal consequences. Additionally, it is recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip interruptions.

COVID-19 rules for international travel to Belize

Belize is currently allowing international travel, but there are several COVID-19 rules and safety precautions that travellers should be aware of before planning their trip. Here are the key points to consider:

Before Your Trip

It is recommended that you review the Department of State's COVID-19 page and the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to Belize before planning your trip. Ensure that your routine vaccinations are up to date, and consider consulting a health care professional to discuss any additional recommended vaccinations or medications.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements may vary depending on your country of origin and the type of passport you hold. It is advised to check with the Belizean authorities, your transportation company, or the nearest Belizean Embassy or Consulate for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information. However, as of July 2024, the following guidelines are in place:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your expected departure date from Belize.
• A tourist visa is not required for stays of up to 30 days. However, you may need to provide proof of a return or onward ticket, as well as sufficient funds to cover your stay.
• If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for a visa from the local immigration office and pay an additional fee for each additional month, up to six months. For stays longer than six months, further documentation and fees may be required.

During Your Stay

Once in Belize, it is important to follow local COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions. Additionally, here are some key safety precautions to keep in mind:

• Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in areas with high levels of gang-related violence, such as the Southside of Belize City.
• Avoid travelling after dark, and always stay in well-lit areas.
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, and avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewellery or watches.
• Use only licensed taxis with green license plates, and avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers.
• Always carry valid identification and keep a copy of your passport in a safe place.
• Monitor local media and weather reports for updates on the security situation and any natural disasters, such as hurricanes.
• Follow local laws and respect cultural sensitivities.

Returning Home

Please refer to the guidelines provided by your home country for any specific requirements or recommendations upon your return, such as testing or quarantine protocols.

Crime rates in Belize

Belize has a high rate of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder, which occurs even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. The country has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world, with 21.5 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, down from 25 per 100,000 in 2022. Belize's crime rate and statistics for 2022 were 0.00, a 100% decline from 2021, when they were 31.25, a 20.98% increase from 2020.

Much of the violent crime in Belize is gang-related and occurs in the Southside of Belize City. Belizean gangs often use weapons to resolve disputes and clash frequently to gain control of territories for illegal activities. Criminals in Belize frequently target tourists, including those at resorts and on the roads and riverways. Sexual harassment and assault of persons travelling alone or in small groups have been reported, with women travelling alone or in small groups being particular targets for sexual assault.

Theft and credit card fraud are also common in Belize, with several credit card fraud rings currently active in the country, especially in San Pedro. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, also occurs, with criminals often operating in groups and targeting individuals travelling alone.

The local police in Belize lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, and as a result, most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. Due to the high level of crime in the country, travellers are advised to exercise caution, especially when travelling to the south side of Belize City.

LGBTQIA+ travel to Belize

Belize is a small, socially conservative, and provincial country. While same-sex sexual activity was decriminalised in 2016, LGBTQIA+ individuals in Belize still face legal challenges that non-LGBTQIA+ citizens do not experience. Although attitudes have been changing in recent years, public displays of same-sex affection are rare and may be considered shocking.

Legal Status of LGBTQIA+ People in Belize

Belizean law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted. The country is still in the process of developing laws to protect LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination. In 2016, Belize decriminalised LGBTQIA+ identity, and the Supreme Court ruled that the Belizean Constitution prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, which includes sexual orientation. Despite this, queer relationships are not legally recognised in Belize, and same-sex marriage is not legal.

Safety for LGBTQIA+ Travellers in Belize

Belize is generally considered a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers. Tourist-friendly areas, including San Pedro Town and Ambergris Caye, remain relatively open and welcoming to the LGBTQIA+ community. However, LGBTQIA+ travellers should be cautious when travelling alone and should avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewellery. It is also recommended to avoid walking or driving at night and to stay in well-lit, populated areas. Additionally, queer travellers should be mindful of public displays of affection and be aware of the cultural norms to ensure a safe and harassment-free trip. Dating apps are not recommended for LGBTQIA+ people in Belize due to conservative attitudes toward gender and sexuality.

Pride Events in Belize

Belize's LGBTQIA+ culture is growing, and the country held its first Pride Week in 2017, with events celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community and raising awareness and acceptance throughout the country. The presence of Pride events has been increasing in Belize in recent years, with events such as Pride Belmopan being organised by young LGBTQIA+ Belizeans. This growing acceptance means that LGBTQIA+ travel to Belize may become more popular in the future.

Driving in Belize

When turning left on a highway, drivers must use their turn signal and wait on the right-hand shoulder of the road until traffic going both ways is clear. Right turns at red lights are permitted, but drivers should exercise caution.

While road conditions outside of the highways vary, many of the highways in Belize have been repaved in recent years. The Northern Highway, Western Highway, Hummingbird Highway, and Southern Highway are all reported to be in good condition. However, the Coastal Highway, also known as the Manatee Highway or the Shortcut, is a 36-mile gravel road that is subject to dust in the dry season, making driving conditions more challenging.

When renting a car in Belize, a valid driver's license, passport, and credit card are typically required. An international driver's license is not mandatory, but liability insurance is. Renting a car can be relatively expensive, with prices ranging from $60 to $87 a day. Petrol is also costly, with unleaded gas priced at around $5.06 a gallon.

Driving at night is strongly discouraged due to low visibility, wildlife, pedestrians, and poorly lit streets. It is recommended to always book accommodation in advance to avoid driving at night.

Belize has one of the lowest population densities in the world, allowing for beautiful nature and wildlife. However, this also means that tourists may find it challenging to navigate backcountry roads.

Frequently asked questions