Belize is a tropical paradise that any expat would be happy to call home. Belize is a stable and secure country that offers a great climate, shopping, services, and a low cost of living.
Climate
Belize has an excellent sub tropical climate and does experience some humidity, but hardly ever along the coastline. Belize also has the added benefit of receiving a southeast trade wind during the hottest month of July.
Temperatures in Belize range from the low 50’s to the 90’s with the average in the high 70’s to 80’s. During the colder months of November to January, highs are in the mid 70’s and nightly temperatures go as low as the 50’s. The temperatures stay in the high 60’s for the rest of the year.
Government
Belize was originally known as British Honduras. Today, the country is considered a parliamentary democracy and continues to be a constitutional monarchy under the British Crown. Belize is very stable and has a very good economy. Tourism and natural resources are the top industries of the country. Americans may enter and stay in Belize for up to 90 days with just a passport (no visa is needed). There is more information about Belize at the Embassy of Belize in Washington D.C.
Tax System
Belize is known to have a high individual income tax rate, with the top income tax rate being 45%. However, the corporate tax rate is significantly lower at 25%. There are other taxes, including a Value Added Tax (VAT) and a stamp duty. Businesses do not consider Belize a tax haven. However, Belize’s government pursues certain companies and industries and gives them incentives to relocate.
Medical Care
Medical care in Belize is considered to be adequate. However, people with serious injuries or illnesses are evacuated to the US or a nearby country with better facilities. Since Belize is located in Central America and has a sub tropical climate, insects that carry dangerous diseases (such as dengue fever) may breed there.
Many clinics that cater to foreigners are available and they usually request cash payments. However, having medical insurance either via travel insurance or a medical provider is still recommended. Insurance definitely helps if evacuation to another country becomes necessary.
Real Estate
Real estate in Belize is more affordable than in the US or Western Europe. Prices vary, but new homes usually cost about $40 to $80 per square foot and beach front lots cost from $40K to 100K. Belize has very few restrictions on purchasing or investing in real estate. Also, real estate laws are fairly stable, which makes Belize a great place to invest or reside.
Shopping
Shopping in Belize is more than adequate for most. Belize does not have large malls or huge shopping districts, but there are many markets, stores to buy necessities, and small boutiques to pick up either designer goods or crafts.
Entertainment in Belize is geared towards tourists. However, people who love the outdoors and the beach will be more than satisfied with Belize. Belize has many beautiful beaches and coves for snorkeling and sun bathing. The water around the Belize is great for scuba diving and fishing. There is an excellent nightlife, especially in the tourist centers of the country.
Cost of Living
The cost of living varies in Belize. Depending on an individual’s lifestyle, he/she can survive on as little as $500 or as much as $10K+ per month. For a few thousand dollars per month, one can live extremely comfortably and luxuriously in either a nice condo or house.
For the most part, the bulk of one’s expenditures go towards luxuries such as eating out, vehicles, and housing. Unlike most Caribbean destinations, Belize gives its residents the option of living on a lot or a little.
Belizean International Banks
The Central Bank of Belize licenses international banks under the International Banking Act.
International banks licensed in Belize include:
Extradition from Belize
The laws of extradition from Belize are set by the Extradition Treaty Between the Government of the United Stats of America and the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Belizean news, entertainment, and networking.
Map of Belize
