Belize Immigration Permits
A guide to the various permits available for living, working, and studying in Belize.
Long Stay Visitor Permit
This permit is for individuals who intend to stay in Belize for an extended period, up to six months, without engaging in employment. It is a single-use permit and cannot be extended.
Who Qualifies?
- Applicant must be a citizen or permanent resident of the European Union, United Kingdom, USA, or Canada.
- Applicant must be employed outside of Belize.
- Must have a minimum annual income of USD $75,000 (for a single applicant) or USD $100,000 (if applying with dependents).
Fees
- USD $500 per Adult
- USD $200 per Child
Important Rules
Holders of a Long Stay Permit and their dependents are strictly prohibited from engaging in any form of employment in Belize, paid or unpaid. This permit is valid for a single period of up to six months and cannot be extended.
Temporary Employment Permit
If you intend to work in Belize, you must apply for a Temporary Employment Permit. You must already be residing in Belize with a valid visa to apply.
How to Apply
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your application at a Labour Department office. Your employer submits if you are employed; you submit if self-employed.
Step 2: Await Notification
The Labour Department will contact you within ~30 days. You must collect the official approval or denial letter in person.
Step 3: Visit Immigration Office
Bring your approval letter to Immigration to pay fees and get instructions for obtaining an Income Tax Letter.
Step 4: Permit Issuance
Present your passport, proof of payment, and tax letter to Immigration for the permit to be issued.
Student Permit
Individuals planning to study in Belize must obtain a valid Student Permit before the start of the school year or semester.
Fees (in Belize Dollars)
| Nationality | Duration | Fee (BZD) |
|---|---|---|
| People’s Republic of China | One School Year/Semester | $3,000.00 |
| India, Nepal, Thailand, etc. | One School Year/Semester | $750.00 |
| All Other Nationals | One School Year/Semester | $200.00 |
Required Documents
- Letter from the institution of study
- Letter of Financial Support (from parent or sponsor)
- Two recent 2x2 inch photographs
- Birth Certificate (translated if not in English)
- Letter of Authority (if a sponsor is applying)
- Valid Passport
- Sponsor's Proof of Identity/Immigration Status
- Recent Bank Statement (from sponsor)
- 1-Year Return Ticket (for extra-regional students at tertiary level)
Visitor's Permit Extension
This allows you to extend your stay in Belize for an additional 30 days. It is for tourists or individuals investigating settlement possibilities. It does not grant the right to work.
Who Can Qualify?
Any visitor in good standing can apply. However, if your nationality requires a visa to enter Belize, you may first need to acquire that visa before an extension is granted. Please verify at your nearest Immigration Office.
Fee
- The fee is BZ$200.00 per extension for all nationalities.
Dependent's Permit
This permit may be issued to an immediate family member of a legal resident of Belize who can provide adequate financial support and accommodation.
Who Qualifies as a Dependent?
- Spouse
- Child
- Parent
- Sibling
- Retired persons (55+) or disabled persons may also qualify.
Fees (in Belize Dollars)
| Sponsor's Nationality | Fee (BZD) |
|---|---|
| People’s Republic of China | $3,000.00 |
| India, Nepal, Thailand, etc. | $750.00 |
| All Other Nationals | $200.00 |
Required Documents
- Letter of Financial Support from the sponsor.
- Proof of Relationship (e.g., Birth/Marriage Certificates).
- Passport, Photographs, Bank Statements, and other supporting documents.