Belize Real Estate & Relocation FAQs

The Stamp Duty is a one-time government transfer tax paid by the buyer at the time of purchase.

As of a recent change, the Stamp Duty is a flat 5% of the purchase price for all buyers, including international investors. This 5% is paid on the full value of the property.”

Agent’s Tip: “This is a fantastic update! This tax was previously 8% for foreigners, so the new flat 5% rate makes investing in Belize even more attractive. We can walk you through the full tax implications for any property.”

The official currency of Belize is the Belize Dollar (code BZD). It is pegged to the U.S. dollar at a fixed rate of 2 BZD to 1 USD. In practice, many places also accept U.S. dollars directly, especially in tourism areas.

Medical treatment in Belize is very reasonable compared with U.S. prices, especially for general doctor visits and routine care. For example, for a simple check-up, follow-up, and several prescriptions many people pay just tens of U.S. dollars rather than hundreds.

In my own case, I paid about US $35 for a visit, five different medicines, then US $22.50 for an eye-doctor visit, and US $45 for a 3-month supply of contact lenses. For a physical exam + blood work for my family of three I paid about US $95.

That said, costs depend on location (urban vs rural), whether you go private or use public services, and whether imported items or specialist care are involved. While ordinary care is affordable, serious surgeries, specialist procedures or imported brand medications can cost much more and may require insurance or travel to nearby countries.

If you plan to rely on private clinics and imported products, it’s wise to budget accordingly or carry insurance/evacuation cover just in case.

Yes, Belize is the only country in Central America whose official language is English. Although you’ll hear many other languages too: Kriol (Creole), Spanish, Garifuna, Mayan dialects, German (among Mennonites), Chinese and more. English remains the language of government, schools, and formal life. The many ethnic groups like Maya, Mestizo, Creole, Garifuna, Mennonite, East Indian, Chinese, Arab and others, make Belize a true melting pot and one of the most culturally diverse places in the region.

According to the Statistical Institute of Belize, the total household population recorded in the 2022 Census was 397,483 persons. Additional estimates put the total population around 400,000 + when including non-household residents/institutions and projections.

For most visitors (including those from the U.S., Canada, and the EU), you are given a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival.

Can I stay longer than 30 days? Yes, extending your stay is a very common and straightforward process.

Before your initial 30 days expire, you simply visit the nearest Immigration Office to apply for a “Visitor’s Permit Extension.” This grants you an additional 30 days.

• Extension Fee: The fee is BZ$200 (or $100 USD) for each 30-day renewal.
• How long can I keep extending? You can repeat this monthly extension process. Many visitors who are exploring the country or considering a move do this for six months or more.

What about long-term stays? This monthly extension process is the standard path to long-term residency. After you have legally resided in Belize for one full year (by renewing your Belize visitor permit 11 times), you become eligible to apply for Permanent Residency.

Agent’s Tip: If you plan to work in Belize, the process is different. Obtaining a Temporary Employment Permit (Work Permit) legally covers your stay, and you do not need to go through the monthly visitor extension process. Our team can connect you with legal experts who specialize in both residency and work permit applications.

Depending on the time of year Belize can get a lot of rain. But most of the time it comes down in Buckets so to speak at night and does not affect any daily activities. The farther North you go the less rain you get. Corozal gets the least amount of rain. In the North is under 70″ per year and in the South it can get as much as 160″ per year.

Belize is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, so diving and snorkeling are awesome. Then we have some of the best Mayan Ruins, all types of fishing, sun bathing, cultural activities, waterfalls, and much much more. RE/MAX gets plenty of great discounts on all tourist related activities. Email me for discounts.

Yes, absolutely. This is a major advantage of buying in Belize, as title insurance is simple, common, and readily available from major ‘A+’ rated U.S. underwriters like First American Title and Stewart Title.

This provides a level of security and peace of mind that international buyers are accustomed to, but which is not always a standard, easily-accessible product in other Central American real estate markets.

What is it? Title insurance is a one-time premium, paid at closing, that protects your ownership rights (your “title”) against potential future claims. It’s a policy that safeguards your investment against issues like:

• Undiscoverable liens or encumbrances
• Errors, omissions, or fraud in the land registry
• Boundary disputes or survey errors
• Someone else claiming ownership from a past (e.g., fraudulent) transaction

Is it necessary? While not legally mandatory, it is highly recommended for complete peace of mind, especially for international buyers.

Belize has two land systems: the modern “Registered Land” (where the government guarantees the title) and the older “General Registry” (based on a chain of deeds). While an attorney’s title search is essential, it only protects you against errors they should have found. Title insurance protects you against the things no one could have found.

What is the cost? The cost for this one-time policy is typically around 0.5% to 1% of the property’s purchase price.

Agent’s Tip: We view this as a smart, one-time investment that secures your asset forever. Our RE/MAX agents can connect you with a reputable closing attorney or closing company that can easily add this policy to your closing process.

Once you buy a property in Belize, there is a 5% “Stamp Duty Tax” that goes to the government. The first $10,000USD is exempt from that tax. Then there is anywhere between 1.5%-3% for closing cost. If you want Title insurance that is 1% of the sale price. If you want a more in depth Title search you can do that for $400.00USD.

No- Belize has full title ownership, but there are leases in Belize that is why you need to have a good real estate agent to look out for your needs.

Yes, Belize is set up as a British Commonwealth and is a democracy. We have a Prime Minister and many influences from England, the US, and Canada.

Belize offers English-speaking convenience, natural beauty, and affordable living just a
short flight from North America. Add in the friendly people, simple property laws, and a
sense of community, and it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with life in
Belize.

Each region offers something unique:

• Ambergris Caye / San Pedro: Vibrant Island life and luxury beachfront homes.
• Cayo District: Lush jungles, rivers, and affordable inland properties.
• Hopkins & Placencia: Laid-back coastal living with growing expat communities.
• Corozal: Quiet northern town near Mexico, popular for retirees seeking value.

Belize is a friendly, diverse, and relaxed destination. You’ll find a blend of Creole,
Mestizo, Garifuna, and Maya cultures — all proud of their traditions. English is the
official language, and people are warm and welcoming. The pace of life is slower,
making it easy to unwind and reconnect with what matters most.

Belize has both public and private schools, with English as the primary language of
instruction. In larger towns and on Ambergris Caye, you’ll find international and
Christian-based schools that follow U.S. or British curricula. Homeschooling is also an
option for expat families.

Utilities are generally reliable in developed areas. Electricity costs are higher than in
North America, particularly if you frequently use air conditioning. Rural or off-grid
properties may rely on solar, wells, or rainwater systems. Garbage pick-up is free within
the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena, though service may vary in other areas.

Belize enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with warm temperatures and refreshing sea
breezes. The dry season typically runs from February to May, while the rainy season
extends from June to November. Coastal areas can experience tropical storms or
hurricanes, though modern forecasting provides ample warning.

Like anywhere, safety varies from one area to another. Smaller towns and expat
communities are generally safe, while some urban areas have higher rates of petty
crime. Common-sense precautions, such as securing your home, avoiding flashy
displays, and getting to know your neighbors, go a long way in staying safe.

Belize offers both public and private healthcare. Public clinics handle routine care, while
private facilities in Belize City, San Ignacio, and Placencia offer higher-quality and faster service. Many expats also maintain international health insurance or travel to Mexico for
specialized treatment.