Belize Travel: Covid Test Requirements

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has removed its COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions for foreign tourists. Travellers are no longer required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination upon entry. All other public health measures at Belize's land and sea entry points have also been lifted, including mask mandates and curfews. However, it is recommended that tourists purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance for US$18, which covers up to $50,000 in COVID-19-related medical expenses and $2,000 for lodging expenses.

No COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for entry to Belize

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has removed its COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions for foreign tourists. All public health measures at Belize’s land and sea entry points are no longer required. This means that there are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for entry to Belize.

Previously, visitors to Belize were required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test or vaccination. However, these requirements have been lifted, and tourists are no longer mandated to provide any COVID-19-related documentation upon entry. This includes proof of vaccination or a negative test result, as well as the need to purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance.

While COVID-19 testing and vaccination are not mandatory for entry, Belize still recommends that tourists stay at certified gold standard hotels or vacation rentals. Additionally, it is suggested that travellers purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance, which costs US$18 and covers up to $50,000 in COVID-19-related medical expenses and up to $2,000 for lodging expenses.

It is important to note that, while there are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for entry, Belize does have other entry requirements that must be met. Visitors must have a valid passport, with some countries also needing a visa. The passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the date of arrival, and visitors should also be able to provide proof of their intent to depart the country, such as a return ticket.

Belize Travel Health Insurance recommended

Belize is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, from its rich history to its beautiful landscapes. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks when travelling to this country. Here are some reasons why purchasing travel health insurance is highly recommended when visiting Belize:

Violent Crime

Belize has a high rate of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. These crimes occur even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. Gang-related violence is also common, especially in the Southside of Belize City, which is south of Haulover Creek Canal. It is advised to avoid travelling to this area. When visiting Belize, it is recommended to be vigilant, avoid walking or driving at night, and not to physically resist any robbery attempts.

Health Risks

Belize has a high rate of HIV/AIDS infection, and other insect-borne diseases such as Zika virus, chikungunya, malaria, and dengue fever are also present. It is important to take precautions such as using insect repellent, wearing appropriate clothing, and ensuring your accommodation is insect-proof. Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases are also common, so it is recommended to drink boiled or bottled water and ensure your vaccinations are up to date before travelling.

Medical Facilities

The medical facilities in Belize City are basic, and in rural areas, medical facilities are very limited or non-existent. In some cases, you may need to pay cash before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency. If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to the US, which can be very expensive. Therefore, having travel health insurance with medical expense coverage is highly recommended.

Natural Disasters

Belize experiences natural disasters such as hurricanes and severe weather. The Caribbean hurricane season is from June to November, and even tropical storms can cause travel delays or cancellations. It is important to monitor weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Ensure your travel insurance covers trip cancellation or interruption in case you need to change your plans due to severe weather.

Adventure Sports

If you plan to participate in adventure sports such as scuba diving, parasailing, or bungee jumping, be aware that these activities may be excluded from medical coverage under standard travel insurance plans. Consider upgrading your travel insurance plan to include adventure sports coverage.

COVID-19

Although the requirement to purchase mandatory travel health insurance ended on July 12, 2022, the risks of COVID-19 remain. It is recommended to have health insurance coverage that covers any new medical condition, including COVID-19.

In summary, purchasing travel health insurance is not a requirement for entry into Belize, but it is highly recommended to ensure you are protected in case of any unforeseen events or medical emergencies. By purchasing travel health insurance, you can have peace of mind and fully enjoy your trip to Belize.

No entry fee, but there is a departure tax

Belize does not charge any entry fee for visitors. However, there is a mandatory departure tax for all non-residents of Belize when they leave the country. This departure tax is often included in the price of your airfare or cruise, but it is recommended that all visitors check whether their airfare or cruise includes this tax. If it is not included, the departure tax must be paid upon leaving the country. The departure tax is payable only in cash and in American currency.

The departure tax rates vary depending on the traveller's citizenship and their chosen mode of transport. Belizean citizens and residents are charged BZD $35 as the departure tax, along with a security screening fee of USD 0.75. Non-citizens and non-residents of Belize have to pay USD 35.50 as the departure tax, in addition to the same security screening fee of USD 0.75.

For travellers departing from the Philip S.W. Goldson Airport outside Belize City, the departure tax is the same as mentioned above, regardless of the time spent in the country. However, for those who have spent less than 24 hours in Belize, there is no conservation fee. Travellers who have spent more than 24 hours in the country are required to pay a conservation fee of BZD 7.50 upon exiting.

For travellers leaving Belize via land or water crossings to Guatemala or Mexico, the total fees amount to BZD 40. This includes a "border development" fee of BZD 2.50, a conservation fee of BZD 7.50, and a departure tax of BZD 30. The total amount can also be paid in USD, amounting to USD 20. It is important to note that these fees are per person and must be paid in cash.

Passport required, valid for at least 3 months after arrival

To enter Belize, you must have a passport that is valid for the length of your stay. This means that your passport must be valid for at least three months after your arrival in Belize. For U.S. citizens, no visa is required for tourist visits of up to 30 days. However, visitors must have proof of their intent to depart Belize and sufficient funds to cover their stay. If you are visiting Belize for purposes other than tourism, or plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must obtain a visa.

All tourists and non-Belizean citizens are required to pay an exit fee of approximately US$40, which may be included in your airline ticket. It is recommended to check with your airline before your trip. Belize allows visitors a maximum stay of one month in the country before an extension is required. Extensions can be obtained from Belize Immigration offices and are granted in one-month increments.

If you are travelling to Belize with minor children, you may be asked by immigration officials to provide U.S. birth certificates for each child. When children are not travelling with both parents, documentation such as notarized letters from the parent(s), custody or adoption papers, and death certificates (if applicable) may be requested.

It is important to note that Belize has specific requirements for proof of citizenship and photo identification for Belizean citizens. Please refer to the Belize Immigration website for detailed information on the required documents.

No visa required for stays under 30 days

To enter Belize, all visitors must present a valid passport. This passport must be valid for at least three months after the date of arrival, and visitors must also have a return ticket and sufficient funds to cover their stay. Visitors are usually given a one-month/30-day stay, after which an extension can be applied for at the nearest Immigration Department.

However, citizens of certain countries do not require a visa to enter Belize for stays under 30 days. These countries include:

• The United States of America
• Canada
• Argentina
• Brazil
• Chile
• Colombia
• Panama
• Costa Rica
• South Korea
• Mexico
• The United Kingdom
• France
• Germany
• Spain
• Japan
• The Netherlands
• Belgium
• Australia
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Uruguay
• Malaysia
• Barbados
• Trinidad & Tobago
• Jamaica
• Honduras
• Ireland
• Switzerland
• Italy
• The Republic of China (Taiwan)
• Guatemala
• Norway
• Sweden
• Denmark
• European Union Member States (EU) and their dependent territories
• Caribbean Community Member States (CARICOM), except Haiti
• Citizens of the Commonwealth Realms & Monarchies, and their dependent territories
• Switzerland
• Citizens of the Commonwealth Republics, except West African countries

If you are a citizen of one of these countries, you can enter Belize without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. After this period, you will need to apply for an extension or leave the country.

In addition to the passport requirements, there may be additional COVID-19 testing requirements for entry into Belize. Please check the latest travel advisories for up-to-date information on COVID-19 testing requirements.

Frequently asked questions