The immigration system in Belize is governed by the Belize Immigration Act and managed by the Department of Immigration and Nationality Services under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Immigration. It regulates the entry, stay, residency, work, and citizenship of foreigners in Belize.
Key Components of Belize’s Immigration System
1. Entry Requirements
- Most visitors must have a valid passport (at least 6 months before expiration).
- Visa requirements vary by nationality:
- Visa-exempt countries: USA, UK, Canada, CARICOM, EU, and others.
- Others must apply for a visitor visa before arrival.
- Visitors are usually granted a 30-day stay upon entry, extendable with approval.
2. Types of Immigration Status
a. Tourist/Visitor
- Initial stay of 30 days.
- Can apply for monthly extensions (fees apply).
- Cannot work legally under tourist status.
b. Temporary Residence
- For those intending to stay longer than six months, but not permanently.
- May include students, missionaries, volunteers, retirees, etc.
- Requires proof of financial stability, clean police record, and other documents.
c. Permanent Residence
- Granted to foreigners who have:
- Lived in Belize legally for at least 1 year (no trip longer than 14 consecutive days).
- Shown financial stability and good character.
- Paid the permanent residency fee (varies by nationality).
- Permanent residents can live and work in Belize without a work permit.
3. Work Permits
- Required for foreigners seeking employment in Belize.
- Employers must apply on behalf of the employee.
- Valid for up to one year and must be renewed.
- Categories:
- Employee permit
- Self-employment permit
- Business permit
4. Nationalization (Citizenship)
Foreigners may apply for Belizean citizenship through:
- Descent: Born to a Belizean parent.
- Marriage: Married to a Belizean for at least 1 year and lived in Belize for 5 years.
- Naturalization: Lived legally in Belize for 5 continuous years (after gaining permanent residency).
- Applicants must have good conduct, a clean police record, and swear an oath of allegiance.
5. Refugees and Asylum
- Belize is a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention.
- The Refugees Department handles refugee status applications.
- Refugees are screened and, if accepted, granted legal protection and documentation.
6. Immigration Enforcement
- Immigration officers enforce:
- Border control (at airports, sea ports, and land borders).
- Deportation of overstayers, illegal entrants, or persons involved in crime.
- Inspection and investigation of fraudulent documents or immigration abuse.
Important Immigration Rules
- Always carry your immigration documents while in Belize.
- Overstaying your visa is a serious offense and may lead to fines or deportation.
- False information or documents during the immigration process is illegal.
- Immigration services may require health checks or proof of income for longer stays.
Main Immigration Offices
- Head Office: Belmopan City
- Other offices: Belize City, Orange Walk, San Pedro, Dangriga, Punta Gorda, and border posts.
Common Immigration Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa | Short-term travel to Belize |
| Temporary Residence Permit | Medium-term stay for work/study |
| Work Permit | Legal employment authorization |
| Permanent Residence Card | Long-term legal stay |
| Nationality Certificate | Proof of Belizean citizenship |
| Refugee ID | Protection for approved refugees |
