In an effort to keep the general public informed, the Ministry of Health provides updates on continuing developments with respect to COVID-19. On this page you will find the latest official updates, travel advisories, COVID-19 testing, FAQs and news stories from accredited media houses on the COVID-19 situation on the ground in Belize curated by the Belize.com Editors. This includes information on Belize’s borders with Mexico and Guatemala. Keep up to date with official news and advisories regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.
Current COVID-19 Situation In Belize
Cabinet announced 14 July 2022 it had approved the removal of all public health measures at points of entry, but cautions that in light of the presence of the BA.2 and BA.5 subvariants in Belize, vaccines remain the best protection against severe disease and death from COVID-19. Statutory Instrument Public Health Reform 100 of 2022 enacted 12 July 2022 applies. What this means for travellers? Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required upon arrival and the purchase of Travel Insurance is now optional – rather than being mandatory – but still encouraged. Cabinet was provided with an update on the status of vaccinations. Currently, there are more than 210,950 vaccines on hand. As of 16th August 2022, 228,187 persons or 53.04 percent had received at least one dose of the vaccine and 219,116 or 50.9 percent had received two doses. Of the population ages 12 to 17 years, 26,726 have received two doses of the vaccines. Of the population ages 5 to 11 years, 6,353 have received two doses of the vaccines. To date, 50,329 booster shots have been issued.(Cabinet denotes Belize’s executive branch of government).
The Ministry of Health & Wellness is pleased to announce the arrival of an additional amount of 11,520 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines 11 September at the Phillip Goldson International Airport. The donation came from the Government of Netherlands through the COVAX facility and shipped through the PAHO revolving Fund. Ministry officials including Dr. Natalia Beer, Technical Advisor, Maternal and Child Health was present for the arrival.
Who Can Enter Belize?
Belize entry requirements are strict. All visitors must have a passport to enter Belize and their passports must be valid for no less than six months after the intended period of stay. Nationals of the following countries do not currently need visas to travel to Belize: the United States of America, Canada, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Panama, Costa Rica, South Korea, Mexico, Israel, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Paraguay, Peru, Spain, Japan, The Netherlands, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Uruguay, Malaysia, Morroco, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Honduras, Ireland, Switzerland, Italy, Venezuela, The Republic of China (Taiwan), Guatemala, Norway, Sweden and Denmark. See our Belize Visa page.
What specific measures does Belize have to protect visitors from contracting the virus?
The country’s primary concern is to assure both travellers and residents that Belize’s tourism product is safer than ever before. A series of new enhanced health and safety protocols have been put in place to protect visitors, Belizeans, and our communities.
Upon arrival in Belize, what is the Immigration and Customs process like?
Enhanced health and safety measures have been adapted to protect both officers and arriving passengers. Some of these measures include protective barriers to reduce contact between the officers and the passengers, kiosks for scanning of passports upon entry, luggage scanners in the Customs Hall, and safety barriers where inspection of luggage is required.
Are there any restrictions on movement for tourists?
Tourists visiting Belize can move about freely, as of 1 March 2022. It is recommended that they stay at Gold Standard certified accommodations, and use tour operators, tourism transportation providers, restaurants, tourism sites and attractions, and gift shops. These Gold Standard and certified entities have all been trained and have implemented enhanced health and safety measures.
What should I do if I start to exhibit symptoms during my vacation?
If you start to exhibit any COVID-like symptoms, immediately notify your hotel’s front desk, and they will implement their Covid Response Plan. Should you develop symptoms, and test positive for the virus while in country, you will be required to quarantine for a minimum of 7 days. It is highly recommended that you obtain the Belize Travel Health Insurance to cover any costs if you become sick while on vacation.
Can I immigrate to Belize?
An individual can apply for permanent residence after legally residing in Belize for a minimum of one year. The fee for residency ranges from USD$187.50 to USD$1,562.50 depending on the nationality of the applicant. Individuals who are interested in residing permanently in Belize must submit the following upon application: Applicant must show proof that he/she has been in Belize for one year by using passport/refugees document as evidence. See our Belize Residency and Citizenship page.
Article by M.A. Romero Chief Information Officer (RET) to the Government of Belize. Reviewed by Marvin Manzanero MD M. Sc. (GHP) Director Health Services Belize.