Belize Bound: Navigating The Ins And Outs Of Relocating To Belize

Belize is a Central American country with a population of close to 400,000 people. It is a former British colony, which is why its official language is English. Belize is a popular destination for US expats, with its stunning natural scenery, friendly people, and a relaxed way of life. It is also a very non-materialistic place, with a go slow approach to living.

The cost of living in Belize is generally low compared to the US, making it a popular place for retirees and people on a fixed income. The weather is nice year-round, with a stable subtropical climate averaging 84 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you're considering moving to Belize, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, while Belize is a safe country, it has a high overall crime rate, with some areas being particularly risky. However, much of the reported crime is gang-related, and expats are more likely to be involved in petty crimes. Secondly, while the quality of life in Belize is considered high, the healthcare system is limited, with advanced medical care being unavailable in some areas. Finally, the roads in Belize are in poor condition, and driving can be challenging due to a lack of markings and shoulders.

Belize's weather is nice year-round

The country experiences a dry season from February to May. During this time, you can expect plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. The temperatures are still pleasant, ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. This makes it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and zip-lining.

Belize's diverse topography offers something for everyone. You can enjoy the mountains in the morning and be snorkelling at the marine reserve in the afternoon. The country's small size also makes it easy to explore, with a drive from Belize City to the westernmost border point taking only two hours.

The weather in Belize is perfect for those who love the outdoors and a laid-back lifestyle. You can spend your days relaxing on the beach, standing under waterfalls, or enjoying water sports such as boating and fishing. The warm and stable climate makes it easy to adapt to life in Belize and makes the country a popular destination for expats and retirees.

Belize is an English-speaking country

Belize has a multilingual population, with many Belizeans speaking Spanish, Creole, Mayan dialects, and/or an indigenous Caribbean language called Garifuna. The country's colonial history and proximity to Mexico and Guatemala have influenced its linguistic diversity. Many Belizeans are bilingual or trilingual, and some speak Belizean Kriol English, a dialect closely related to Jamaican Patois.

The official language being English is a significant advantage for expats, especially those from the US, Canada, the UK, and other English-speaking countries. It removes the language barrier that often exists when relocating to a new country, making it easier to communicate with locals, understand legal documents, menus, and street signs, and navigate daily life.

Belize's English-speaking status also contributes to its appeal as a retirement and relocation destination. It simplifies the process of obtaining visas and permanent residency, which is relatively straightforward for US citizens. The Belize Qualified Retirement Program (QRP), for example, allows anyone over 35 with a regular income to settle in the country long-term, bringing their spouse and children under 18.

Additionally, Belize's English-speaking status has likely contributed to its reputation as one of the happiest countries globally, with friendly and cheerful locals who love to celebrate. The language familiarity makes it easier for expats to integrate into the local culture, fostering a sense of community and a laid-back, relaxed lifestyle.

In summary, Belize's status as an English-speaking country enhances its attractiveness as a relocation destination, particularly for English speakers from North America and Europe. It simplifies the transition for expats, fosters a sense of community, and contributes to the country's overall appeal and desirability.

Belize's healthcare system

The public health sector provides care to a larger portion of the population, with an emphasis on quality of care and quality improvement. However, public healthcare facilities remain underfunded, understaffed, and under-supplied. There are only eight major public hospitals and around 60 public clinics in Belize. Despite the large population, Belize City offers the highest level of care.

The public hospitals and clinics provide very low-cost and almost free healthcare services to anyone who approaches them. However, this often results in long waiting queues. A Belize Health Information System card (BHIS) is mandatory for anyone seeking treatment in a public healthcare facility, including expats.

The private health sector in Belize has grown over the years, especially in urban areas. Although the costs are high, the coverage is comprehensive, offering a range of secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities. The private healthcare facilities in Belize City cater to expats and global citizens.

The quality of healthcare across the country is generally considered low, and advanced medical care is limited even in major cities. In rural parts of the country, emergency care may be unavailable or delayed. The US State Department advises that serious injuries or illnesses will likely require medical evacuation to find adequate treatment.

Expats are advised to ensure they have adequate health insurance when moving to Belize. Dozens of companies offer international health insurance that covers the cost of overseas medical care and/or the cost of flying home for emergency treatment. It is recommended that policies include repatriation costs and the cost of air ambulance services.

Belize's visa types

Belize Visa Types

Belize offers a variety of visa options for those looking to relocate or stay long-term. Here is a breakdown of the different types of visas available:

• Tourist Visa: This visa is suitable for those who are visiting Belize for a holiday, temporarily conducting business, or investigating the possibility of settlement in the country. US citizens can enter without a visa and stay for up to a month. For longer stays, visa stamps are required for each additional month, and after a year, individuals can switch to a permanent residence application.
• Employment Visa: Foreigners who have been officially hired in Belize or are conducting consultation visits, sales representation, or technical work may apply for this visa. The employer can apply for a temporary employment permit once the individual arrives in Belize, or they can apply themselves if they are self-employed.
• Student Visa: This visa is available for foreign students enrolled in secondary or tertiary institutions in Belize.
• Retirement Visa (QRP): This is a popular option for US citizens over 35, allowing them to reside in Belize with their spouse and children under 18. QRP holders cannot work or own a company but are entitled to certain perks like duty and tax exemptions and the opportunity to purchase property. They must prove an annual income of at least $24,000 and can apply for permanent residency after residing in Belize for a year.
• Residence Permit: For those planning to stay in Belize for more than a year, there are two types of residence permits: temporary and permanent. The temporary residence permit is for applicants who want to invest a minimum of BZ$500,000 in Belize but may not live there due to outside obligations. The permanent residence permit requires individuals to have already lived in Belize for a year with a long-stay visa, without leaving the country for more than 14 days during that period.

Cost of living in Belize

The cost of living in Belize is generally considered to be low compared to the US, making it a popular destination for retirees and expats. However, the cost of living in Belize is not the cheapest when compared to other Caribbean countries.

The cost of living in Belize will depend on your lifestyle choices and where you choose to live. The further away from the beach and the town centre, the cheaper the rent will be. For example, a two-bedroom apartment near the beach with air conditioning located a few miles from the town of San Pedro will cost between $1,200 to $1,500 per month. In contrast, a one-bedroom apartment on the water with air conditioning in Cayo, within walking distance to the town, will cost around $1,000 per month.

Belize offers a wide range of housing options, from basic wooden homes to more expensive concrete homes. Concrete homes tend to be larger and offer more conveniences, such as air conditioning.

The cost of utilities in Belize is also relatively low. A couple can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 per month for water, and around $25 to $80 for internet services. Electricity, on the other hand, is quite expensive, with a residential rate of $0.45 per kWh. Running air conditioning units can quickly escalate your electric bill, so it's important to conserve energy where possible.

Food is another area where costs can vary significantly. Eating out at restaurants in tourist areas like Placencia, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker will be more expensive. However, by shopping and eating like the locals, it is possible to save money. Belize's national meal, stewed chicken with rice and beans, is a cheap and filling option, costing around $6 to $8 at roadside stands.

Transportation costs can also vary. While it is common to walk or use a gas-powered golf cart in popular expat communities, some may opt for a car. Gasoline is expensive, costing between $5 to $7 per gallon, so combining trips or sharing taxis can help keep costs down.

Overall, a couple from North America can survive on a budget of $1,000 per month, but $1,500 would be a more reasonable amount. It's important to note that the average household income for a Belizean family of four is $700 per month, as they are comfortable eating less expensive, locally sourced meals.

Frequently asked questions