Is Belize a good place to raise a family?

The nation is close to home, practically everyone speaks English, your family can live on less income, and the nation's laid back lifestyle makes it easy to adapt to the slower pace minus the stress associated with living in North America.

What is family life like in Belize?

Families tend to be large and often include the extended family. Many Belizeans go to other countries to live and work, and it is common for grandparents to raise grandchildren. Because of the large number of absentee parents, minors now comprise the majority of the population in Belize City .

Is moving to Belize a good idea?

Belize is a very welcoming country for foreigners, especially those who are done working, and all they want is to enjoy life in a quiet and tranquil atmosphere. The Qualified Retirement Program is the initiative that allows people who are 45 years and above to settle in the country effortlessly.

What are the pros and cons of living in Belize?

Pros: No commitment, no financial requirement, flexibility, little red tape. Cons: No tax advantages, no official status, inconvenience of having to renew periodically, monthly fee of US$25. to $50. per person to extend, possibility rules may change, can't work for pay in the country.

What are the advantages of living in Belize?

15 Reason's NOT to retire to Belize! Don't live in Belize!

What are the downsides of living in Belize?

Do people in Belize like Americans?

You Like Belizeans

As a general rule Belizeans like North Americans and Europeans and people from all over the world. It is estimated that the equivalent of Belize's entire population lives in North America. Because Belizeans speak English, hundreds of thousands live in the U.S.A. and Canada.

Is Belize English speaking?

Languages of Belize

English is the official language of Belize, but most of the population also speaks a creole patois, and many Belizeans are multilingual. Yucatec, Mopán, and Kekchí are spoken by the Maya in Belize.

Can an American move to Belize?

You can move freely within the country, open a bank account in Belize and travel in and out of Belize without any restrictions. Best of all, the clock starts running and after 5 years you can apply for full citizenship. Application fees for Permanent Residency vary by nationality, ranging from U.S. $250 to $5,000.

How much does it cost to buy a house in Belize?

Belize tends to be less expensive than other Caribbean destinations. House prices range from BZ$294,002 (US$150, 000) to BZ$2,156,011 (US$1,100,000) depending on location. Condominiums range from BZ$280,281 (US$143,000) to BZ$772,244 (US$394,000), according to revealrealestate.com.

How long can a U.S. citizen live in Belize?

Visa and Residency Options for Expats in Belize

As a citizen of the U.S. or Canada you can stay in Belize for up to one month without a visa. If you want to stay longer you'll need to go to the immigration office for an updated visitor's permit or tourist stamp.

Does Belize have good healthcare?

Medical care in Belize generally gets a poor grade, but it has been steadily improving in the last few years. Most expat residents say the country needs more healthcare facilities, more specialized physicians and staff, and better equipment.

How much do you need to live comfortably in Belize?

And though Belize's cost of living is comparably lower than that of the U.S., its costs vary per area. However, you may very well be able to survive with a monthly budget between $1,200 and $1,500. But housing and food will play a significant role in your monthly bill. Below, we take a closer look at those options.

Is living in Belize safe?

Areas to Avoid in Belize

Most tourists and expats never go to the dangerous areas and there is no reason to go there. The vast majority of tourists and expats live near or in a village or town, where there is a police presence, lighted roads, other people, and avoid the need to travel alone late at night.

What is considered rude in Belize?

Cultural Attributes

Belizeans are informal and friendly and non-confrontational. A simple nod or wave is acceptable when passing but it is considered rude not to greet someone. Among friends, one might shake hands by clasping the palms and locking thumbs. Men might pat each other on the back.

Does Belize have good schools?

In conclusion, schools in Belize generally are not as good as many schools back home. There are some reasonably good schools at all levels, and it's possible to continue your education in the Caribbean to a high level if you want to.

Are dogs allowed in Belize?

Pet Dogs and Cats may enter the country accompanied by a Veterinary Certificate for Belize issued by a licensed veterinarian in the country of origin within 14 days of entry.

Can a US citizen own property in Belize?

Belize is one of the most amenable countries for foreigners looking to buy real estate, as the rights of non-nationals are exactly the same as nationals. Unlike in many other countries, non-nationals can buy a property outright rather than have to settle for a long-term lease with the national government.

Why do so many people move to Belize?

It has a tropical climate, around 127 offshore islands, the longest barrier reef in Western Hemisphere, great fishing opportunities, safe waters for activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, thick forests and an abundance of flora and fauna; these are just some of the most prominent factors boost Belize's tourism ...

What country owns Belize?

What country owns Belize? Belize achieved independence on September 21, 1981, but it has retained its historical link with the United Kingdom through membership in the Commonwealth.

What religion is in Belize?

There are 16 different religions in Belize. Roman Catholicism is the largest by far, though its following is decreasing slightly. Other popular denominations are Seventh Day Adventists, Baptists, Anglicans, and Pentecostals.

What food is Belize known for?

Can I collect Social Security and live in Belize?

Social Security is available for any U.S. citizen, regardless of the country you're currently living in. However, as an expat, you may need to fill out a questionnaire to ensure you're still eligible for benefits.

Is it cheaper to live in Belize or Costa Rica?

Cheaper In Belize

You can live well in Costa Rica for less than at home, but it is no longer a bargain here. Compared with Belize, Costa Rica is actually expensive. You can get by in Costa Rica spending only a little. But you won't be able to live the kind of retirement that you could in Belize.

Does Belize get hit by hurricanes?

In the past, major hurricanes have caused extensive damage, serious injuries, and deaths. The areas in Belize most sensitive to hurricane damage are the cayes and coastal areas, including popular destinations such as San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Placencia on the mainland.