Belize
“Belize is a gorgeous country with some of the best beaches, fishing and diving in the world.”
Anthony Bourdain
Belize
Belize offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm and Central American adventure, making it an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers. This small, English speaking country boasts diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches and the world’s second largest barrier reef.
Under the “Work Where You Vacation” program, Belize has introduced a digital nomad visa allowing remote workers to stay for up to six months, with the possibility of extension. This initiative, coupled with the country’s laid back atmosphere and growing infrastructure has positioned Belize as an emerging hub for location independent professionals. While internet connectivity can be variable, especially outside urban areas, many accommodations and coworking spaces in popular spots like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, and San Ignacio now offer reliable connections.
The cost of living in Belize is generally affordable compared to North American and European standards with a comfortable lifestyle possible on $1,500-$2,500 monthly. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to snorkeling in crystal clear waters, Belize offers a range of experiences for those seeking to balance work with tropical living.
| 🌎 CONTINENT | NORTH AMERICA |
|---|---|
| 📌COUNTRY | BELIZE |
| 👫🏻POPULATION | 418,000 |
| 🙏RELIGION | CHRISTIANITY |
| 💵CURRENCY | BELIZE DOLLAR (BZD) |
| 💉C19 VAX REQUIRED | NO |
| 🔌POWER | 115V - 60Hz |
| 💰GDP PER CAPITA | $4,935 PER YEAR |
| ✈️AIRPORT | PHILIP GOLDSON INT - BZE |
|---|---|
| 🪪UK VISA FREE | 30 DAYS |
| 🏝️LAND OWNERSHIP | ALLOWED |
| 🛜AVG INTERNET SPEED | 15.71 MBPS |
| 💧TAP WATER | NOT SAFE TO DRINK |
| 🏧ATM LIMIT | VARIES BY BANK |
| 💳CASHLESS | WIDELY ACCEPTED |
| 💸TIPPING | 5 - 10 PERCENT |
TAX FRIENDLINESS
Digital Nomad Tax Friendliness: 90/100
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- Belize offers a “Work Where You Vacation” program specifically for digital nomads.
- The program allows for a stay of up to 180 days.
- Work permits are waived for participants, simplifying the process.
Expat Tax Friendliness: 90/100
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- Belize follows a territorial tax system, only taxing income from Belizean sources.
- Foreign sourced income is not taxed for residents or non residents.
Investor Tax Friendliness: 95/100
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- No capital gains tax.
- Corporate tax rate is 25%, but significant exemptions are available.
- Belize offers tax free zones and incentives for certain investments.
Crypto Tax Friendliness: 75/100
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- The new regulations, effective March 1, 2024, now include provisions for “virtual assets” and “virtual asset service providers.”
- Virtual assets are defined to include cryptocurrencies and other digital representations of value.
- The Central Bank of Belize is given authority to regulate and supervise virtual asset service providers.
- While this introduces more regulation, it also provides legal clarity for crypto operations in Belize.
- The regulations do not specifically address taxation of crypto assets, but the legal recognition may impact future tax treatment.
PRICE REFERENCE
HOLIDAY LETS
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Tourist Visa
- Visa-Free Entry: Visitors from countries such as the UK, EU, the U.S., and Canada can enter Belize without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism purposes.
- Visa Extensions: Tourists wishing to stay longer can apply for a visa extension, which can be granted in monthly increments for up to 6 months.
- Requirements: Visitors need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their stay, proof of accommodation and a return ticket.
Important Links:
- Belize Immigration Department – for visa extension details.
Digital Nomad Visa (Work Where You Vacation Program)
- Overview: The Work Where You Vacation program allows remote workers and digital nomads to live and work in the country while enjoying the tropical paradise. This initiative makes it easy for those working remotely to experience Belize’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and relaxed lifestyle.
- Eligibility: To qualify, individuals must be employed by a company located outside of Belize or self employed with clients based abroad. Proof of remote employment or business activities is required.
- Duration: Digital nomads can stay in Belize for up to 6 months by entering on a standard tourist visa, which can be extended on a monthly basis at any immigration office.
- Requirements: Applicants need a valid passport, proof of employment and evidence of sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay. Travel insurance covering their time in Belize is also necessary.
Retirement Visa
- Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program: offers a Retirement Incentive Program that allows retirees to live in the country.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be 45 years or older and have a proven monthly income of at least USD 2,000 from a pension or other sources.
- Incentives: The QRP program allows retirees to import personal goods duty free and exempts them from income tax on foreign income.
Important Links:
- Belize Tourism Board – for more on the QRP program.
OTHER NOTES
ARE ID CARDS REQUIRED
Are ID Cards Required for Everyday Interactions and Transactions?
- ID for Locals: Belizean citizens carry a Social Security Card, which serves as their primary form of identification.
- For Foreigners: Foreigners visiting Belize do not require a local ID, but carrying a passport or a photocopy of the passport is recommended for identification during transactions such as banking or entering official buildings.
- Everyday Use: IDs are commonly requested when conducting bank transactions, accessing government services or purchasing alcohol.
ARE GM FOODS ALLOWED
Are GM Foods Allowed in Belize?
- GM Food Policy: Belize has a relatively strict policy on genetically modified (GM) foods, and the importation of GM seeds is prohibited.
- Regulation: Belize has adopted the Precautionary Principle when it comes to GM organisms. As a result, commercial cultivation of GM crops is not widespread though imported GM food products are present.
- Public Sentiment: There is a significant movement in Belize to support organic farming and sustainable agriculture with many preferring non GM food options.
Important Links:
- Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) – for details on agricultural policies.
TRESPASSING - RIGHT TO ROAM
Trespassing, Right to Roam, and Wild Camping in Belize
- Trespassing: Trespassing on private land is illegal in Belize and landowners have the right to prevent access to their property. There are penalties for those who violate these laws.
- Right to Roam: Belize does not have a “right to roam” law, but public areas such as national parks and beaches are generally accessible. Camping on private property without permission is prohibited.
- Wild Camping: Wild camping is not common in Belize due to strict private property laws. Camping is typically limited to designated camping areas within parks or on public lands.
Important Links:
- Belize Forest Department – for information on camping and access to national parks.
420 FRIENDLY?
420 Friendly?
- Decriminalization: Cannabis was decriminalized in Belize in 2017, allowing for the possession of up to 10 grams for personal use in private spaces. However, public consumption remains illegal.
- Cultivation: Home cultivation is not permitted, even for personal use. The sale of cannabis remains illegal and offenders can face significant legal penalties.
- Tourists: Visitors should be aware that cannabis is still illegal for public consumption and tourists can face fines or arrest for violating these laws.
Important Links:
- Belize Ministry of Home Affairs – for updates on cannabis regulations.