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Belize

Central America

About Belize

English-speaking Caribbean haven with tax-free retirement program.

Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America, making it exceptionally accessible for US expats. The Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) requires just $2,000/month income and grants tax-free status on foreign income, capital gains, and inheritance. Cost of living runs 31% below the US, with couples living comfortably on $1,500-2,500/month. Popular destinations include Ambergris Caye for beach living, Placencia for quieter atmosphere, and Cayo District for jungle living at lower costs. The 2025 National Health Insurance expansion provides basic coverage, though most expats maintain US healthcare ties for specialized care.

Country Overview

Key indicators to help you understand what life in Belize might be like

Cost of LivingModerate

Healthcare QualityModerate

SafetyModerate

English PrevalenceExcellent

Visa AccessibilityGood

Data last updated: 1/7/2026

Highlights

✓English is the official language—no language barrier
✓QRP requires only $2,000/month income, age 40+
✓Zero tax on foreign income, capital gains, inheritance
✓Duty-free import of household goods and vehicles
✓Cost of living 31% below US average

Considerations

!Island living (Ambergris Caye) significantly more expensive
!Limited specialized healthcare—complex cases require travel
!Hurricane risk during June-November season
!Banking infrastructure less developed than US
!QRP requires minimum 30 days/year in-country

Visa Options

Available visa types for Americans looking to move to Belize

Permanent Residency

PERMANENT_RESIDENCE

Requires 50 consecutive weeks of residence in Belize. Application fee $2,000 for US citizens. Allows work and indefinite stay.

Path to ResidencyPath to Citizenship

Qualified Retirement Program (QRP)

RETIREMENT

For those 40+ with $2,000/month foreign income. Tax-free on foreign income, capital gains, inheritance. Duty-free imports for household goods and vehicles.

$2,000/mo min

Path to Residency

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