Want To Move To Belize? 10 Things To Know

March 18, 2015
by Belize Hub +

Belize is one of the most popular getaway spot for vacationers but it makes an even more picturesque oasis to live. Before moving to Belize, you have to make sure that you do your research. Listed below are 10 things you should be aware of before you move to Belize.

1. Why Settle in Belize?

Belize is a one stop shop for a beach and jungle vacation, but it can also provide an incredible haven to live in. The main reasons retirees move to Belize is because of the warm weather, white sandy beaches, lush rainforest and unlimited adventures like hiking, canoeing and bird watching.

2. Decide Where You Want To Live

Belize has the best of both worlds – Lush Jungle and Turquoise Caribbean Sea. Before buying real estate in Belize, you have to decide whether you want to wake up to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore or the sounds of nature in the rainforest.

3. Decide Your Price Limit

Although Belize may be a more expensive destination to live in than for example Guatemala, it is relatively cheap for a picturesque dream home. Homes in Belize can range anywhere from $15,000 to $500,000 so you have to decide your price limit before you begin shopping. Our friends at Orchid Bay can help you find the perfect retirement home. They offer villas, condominiums and land in an established community.

4. Know Your Benefits

Moving to Belize has many added benefits other than just having a vacation home to live in year round. The country for example, has very lenient laws on residency and relief of taxes for businesses/retirees investing in the country.

5. Understand The Population Of The Country Is Like A Big City

The entire population of Belize is 355,000 people and it is like the population of a metro city in North America. You have to be prepared for this type of change. Belize as a country lacks many resources such as a tax base to sustain an infrastructure of roads to fully support its tourist economy.

6. Be Ready To Shop Somewhere Other Than Wal-Mart

Although Wal-Mart is a popular chain that seems to be worldwide, the country of Belize does not feature this chain store. When moving to Belize, you have to be well prepared to shop locally and use the resources that are available to you.

7. There is No language barriers

Because English is the official language of Belize, you do not need to learn a new language. The entire population speaks English and it is even mandatory for all kids in school to speak and be fluent in the official language of the country. Spanish, Mayan, and Garifuna are other languages that are spoken in Belize.

8. Know The Rules For Bringing Items Into The Country

When moving household items into the country, you are allowed to bring items that you will personally use. You are not allowed to bring any items into the country that you plan to re-sell at any time.

9. The Currency is Very Easy

The Belizean dollar is pegged to the U.S. dollar at BZ $2 to US $1, and both currencies are in free circulation. Therefore, there’s no real adjustment required to a new currency.

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