Belize Passport Stamping: Where To Go?

If you're looking to get your passport stamped in Belize, it's important to note that Belize does not require specific immunizations for entry, and a tourist visa is not required for stays of 30 days or less. However, if you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must have your passport re-stamped by a local immigration office and pay additional fees for each month of your stay, up to six months. For visits exceeding six months, you may need to provide additional documentation and pay more fees.

Visitors staying over 30 days must get their passport re-stamped by a local immigration office

Visitors to Belize who plan to stay for more than 30 days must have their passports re-stamped by a local immigration office. This involves paying an additional fee for each extra month they wish to remain in the country, up to a maximum of six months. If you are granted an extension, your passport will be re-stamped, and you can continue to enjoy your time in Belize.

To get your passport re-stamped, locate the nearest local immigration office. It is recommended that you ask around and get the latest information regarding the extension process before your visit. Each office has its own unique requirements and personality, which may change monthly. Knowing exactly what documentation is required and the best times to visit will save you from making repeat trips.

When applying for an extension, it is advisable to have the following documents with you:

• A completed visa extension form.
• Proof of a purchased return airline ticket. If you don't have this, be prepared to show a lease with your name on it, demonstrating that you live in Belize.
• A current bank statement showing that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Belize.
• If you are extending the visa for children, you may be asked to provide their original birth certificates.

The extension cost is $100 for each additional 30-day period. This is a single-exit visa. If you exit Belize before your visa expires, you will be granted a new 30-day visa upon re-entry.

Please note that for visits longer than six months, you may need to provide additional documentation to the local immigration office explaining the reason for your extended stay. You may also be required to pay further fees. It is recommended that you visit the Embassy of Belize to the United States website for the most current visa information.

A fee is required for each additional month beyond the initial 30 days

Belize is a beautiful country to visit, but it's important to be aware of the visa requirements to avoid overstaying your welcome. If you're planning a trip to Belize and want to stay longer than 30 days, there are a few things you need to know about visa requirements and fees.

Firstly, it's important to note that Belize has specific entry requirements for tourists. For stays of 30 days or less, you are usually exempt from obtaining a visa. However, if you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you will need to visit a local immigration office and apply for a "Belize Visitor's Permit Extension." This extension allows you to legally remain in Belize for up to six months beyond the initial 30-day period.

Now, let's talk about the fees. For each additional month beyond the initial 30 days, you will be required to pay an additional fee. This fee must be paid to the local immigration office for every month you wish to extend your stay, up to a maximum of six months. The amount of the fee may vary, so it's always a good idea to check with the local immigration office or the Embassy of Belize for the most current information.

In addition to the fees, there may be other requirements to extend your stay in Belize. For example, you must have a valid passport, proof of an onward or return ticket, and sufficient funds to cover the cost of your extended stay. It is also recommended that you have valid travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation, as medical facilities in Belize may have limited resources and equipment.

If you plan to stay in Belize for more than six months, you may need to provide additional documentation to the local immigration office. This could include explaining the reason for your extended stay and providing proof of financial stability. There may also be additional fees for stays longer than six months, so be sure to consult with the appropriate authorities.

Remember, overstaying your visa without the required extensions and permits can result in fines, detention, or even deportation. So, it's always best to be prepared and follow the necessary procedures to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Belize.

Visitors must provide proof of sufficient funds for their stay

To enter Belize, visitors must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover the cost of their length of stay. This is usually US$60 per day. The exact amount required may vary depending on the purpose and duration of the visit. For example, those applying for a Long Stay Permit must have a minimum annual income of US$75,000 if applying alone, or US$100,000 if applying with dependents.

For those seeking permanent residency, the financial requirements are more stringent. Applicants must prove that they have been and will continue to be financially stable. They must also submit two recommendations from individuals who have known them for at least one year, such as ministers of religion, registered medical practitioners, attorneys-at-law, Heads of Government Departments, or Justices of the Peace.

Additionally, visitors who wish to extend their stay in Belize beyond the initial 30 days must pay an additional fee for each additional month they wish to stay, up to six months. This can be done at a local immigration office.

Visitors are advised to carry their passport with them at all times

Visitors to Belize must carry a passport that is valid for at least 30 days after their arrival, along with proof of their intent to depart the country, such as a return or onward ticket. Visitors are given a one-month stay, after which an extension can be applied for with the Immigration Department. This extension is granted in one-month increments, for up to six months. Visitors are advised to carry their passports with them at all times, as they may be asked to show their passports to local authorities. Belize has a high crime rate, and tourists are often targeted for crimes such as robbery and sexual assault. In the event of a crime, visitors should report it to the local police by dialling 911 and then contact the US Embassy at 822-4011. It is important to note that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes, and the Embassy can provide limited assistance in these matters.

To enter Belize, visitors are not required to have a visa if they are citizens of the United States and its territories, Canada, the United Kingdom and its territories, the European Union, the Caribbean, and Central American countries. However, those driving or boating into Belize from Guatemala or Mexico need to secure a temporary importation permit at the point of entry, which is valid for 30 days.

Children under 18 years of age must have proper documentation, including a valid passport and a letter of parental consent. If travelling with only one parent, a notarized letter of authority from the other parent is required.

It is recommended that visitors to Belize enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate them in an emergency. Additionally, it is advised to follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter to stay updated on any security and travel advisories.

US citizens should avoid travelling to Belize City due to high crime rates

US citizens should avoid travelling to Belize City, particularly the Southside area (south of Haulover Creek Canal and continuing south to Fabers Road), due to high crime rates. Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world, and violent crime—including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder—is common, even during the day and in tourist areas.

Belize City is a hub for gang-related criminal activity and has a high homicide rate. Gang members and other criminals use violent means to resolve disputes, and tourists are frequently targeted by criminals, even at resorts and on roads and rivers. While tourists are not usually the targets of gang violence, anyone near an incident could be affected.

In addition to gang-related violence, other crimes such as theft, credit card fraud, and scams are also prevalent in Belize. Tourists are particularly vulnerable to these crimes, and most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted due to a lack of resources and training among local police.

To stay safe in Belize, it is recommended that travellers be vigilant and aware of their surroundings, avoid walking or driving at night, and avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewellery or watches. It is also important to follow the advice of local authorities, use qualified guides for off-the-beaten-path excursions, and only use established accommodation.

Frequently asked questions