Living as an American Ex-Pat in Belize

Belize may be one of the best-held secrets among countries of Latin America. Though it is often referred to as a Caribbean country, it is physically located just south of Mexico on the Gulf Coast. And it has become a haven for American retirees and other ex-pats in the past two decades for a variety of reasons.

A Bit of History

Unlike the rest of Latin America, Belize was colonized by the UK (along with Guatemala at the time). Belize was granted independence in 1981 and has functioned as a peaceful democracy ever since.

Because of its colonial history, the official language of Belize is English. What’s more, while Belize has its own currency, the U.S. dollar is accepted everywhere. The fixed exchange rate is $2 Beliz = $1 US.

In recent years, the government has done much to improve the infrastructure of the country, especially the roads and highways. Traveling by car is no longer the challenge it used to be. In one way, it is even ahead of the U.S. Because power plants and electricity are scarce, and traditional electricity is pricey, a great deal of the country, especially newer construction, has solar-based power. 

The Economy

Anyone who visits Belize will know immediately that bananas and coffee, grown on mountainsides, are the two most prevalent exports. But more and more, tourism has become an important part of the economy.

Geography – A Bit of Everything

Belize has beautiful beaches as you might expect. But no one can miss the amazing mountain landscapes and the tropical rainforests of the interior. Not to mention the Mayan ruins. And for those who love diving, Belize boasts the second-largest coral reef in the world, one that its government is highly protective of.

Social and Cultural Tidbits

There is an indigenous population in Belize, and their culture is rich. Today, many of the holiday and musical traditions live on, along with crafts. It’s not unusual to go into a restaurant or club and find native drummers – many of them even give lessons. 

Belize is also one of the more progressive countries in Latin America. It was the first country to repeal all laws related to discrimination against homosexuality. Today, gay and lesbian dating is somewhat commonplace and certainly accepted.

Education is compulsory, and if an ex-pat sets up residence and any town, they will see children walking to school in their uniforms, going home for a long lunch time then returning for the rest of their day. There are 12 junior and four-year colleges in Belize, and all public colleges are free.

Is Belize Safe?

Belize City is the major port of the country. As such, it is subject to criminal activity. But the rest of the country has an extremely low crime rate. American ex-pats do not set up houses in Belize City, as a rule. 

Benefits of the Ex-Pat Lifestyle in Belize

Aside from the language, there are quite a few attractive features of living in Belize. In fact, the government is fully welcoming of Americans and other foreigners who want to settle in Belize. 

• There is a special retirement program for anyone 45 years or older, as long as they meet the qualifications – an income of $2000/month being the most important. They may then establish permanent residency in Belize with no requirement to become a citizen. And they may even work. 
• Americans do not have to relinquish their U.S. citizenship to set up permanent residency in Belize. On the other side of that coin, to keep their U.S. citizenship, Americans must return to American soil once every three years.
• The cost of living is far less than that in the U.S.
• Ex-pats can own land in Belize, and property taxes are minimal.
• Ex-pats do not have to pay taxes on income they earn in any foreign company.

Take a Risk-Free Trial

The next time you’re ready for a vacation, get out that passport and book your trip to Belize. Get to know the people and the vibe. You’ll love both.