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    Retire In Belize

    Learn more about this ​​​and other countries in our free, daily Overseas Opportunity Letter, plus our In Focus: Caribbean newsletter Simply enter your email address below and we’ll send you our FREE REPORT: Discover Belize: Reef, Ruins, Rivers, And Rain Forest... Plus Easy Residency And Tax-Free Living






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        Retire In Belize: Everything You Need To Know

        Can I Retire In Belize? You can absolutely retire in Belize! In fact, Belize is very keen to attract retirees.

        The Belizean government is doing everything possible to make the process of moving here quick and easy. And, the reason is simple.

        Expats and retirees provide a boost to the local economy and also bring much needed US dollars into the country.

        To attract retirees, Belize came up with a specially designed program, The Qualified Retired Persons Incentive Program (QRP).

        Kathleen

        Reviewed By Kathleen Peddicord

        Kathleen is the Live and Invest Overseas Founding Publisher. She has more than 30 years of hands-on experience traveling, living, and buying property around the world.

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          Qualified Retired Persons Incentive Program In Belize

          The Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) is an incentive to facilitate those who meet certain requirements, to permanently live, retire, and relax in Belize.

          As of 2024, the Belize’s QRP has changed… and it’s all good news. In short, the age limit dropped to 40.

          Qualifying revenue streams are expanded – now include inheritance, investment income, and personal savings.

          Plus, the new legislative amendments also included potential investors in Belize’s QRP incentive program. Now, retired persons seeking to live in Belize will also be able to invest in and carry on business in the country.

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            Requirements for QRP Investor applications include a business plan, proof of investment capital (minimum US$500k), and proof of residency.

            The application must be done through the Belize Board of Tourism. In their website they outline the following:

            Who Qualifies For The QRP?

            • Any Retired Person 40 years or older.
            • Dependents only include spouse and children under 18 years (children under 23 years can be allowed providing a school enrollment certificate).
            • Must be a beneficial recipient of a pension or annuity of USD $2,000 monthly or USD $24,000 annually from a source outside of Belize.
            • Must be able to provide a written undertaking to deposit the amount in a bank, credit union, or a licensed financial institution in Belize.
            • Must pass the security clearance by the Ministry of National Security in Belize.
            • Must be able to remain in Belize for a minimum of 30 consecutive days annually.

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              What Are The Perks Of The QRP?

              Any person who has been accepted into the QRP Program is entitled to the following under the Belize Retired Persons Incentives Act, Chapter 62 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011:

              • QRP Resident Card – QRP’s and their dependents shall receive QRP Resident Cards that entitles them to remain in the country and allow multiple entries into the country without a visa.
              • Duty Exemptions – QRP’s shall be entitled to duty exemptions of the following items for personal use only within the first year of acceptance into the program:
                1. Personal and Household Effects
                2. (1) Personal Boat
                3. (1) Personal Aircraft – Light aircraft less than 17,000 kg
                4. (1) Personal Motor Vehicle – Model of must be within the last 5 years (Allowed to purchase a new vehicle every 3 years with proper disposal of previous vehicle)
              • Tax Exemptions – QRP’s shall be exempted from all taxes and duties on incomes received from a source outside of Belize, capital gains tax and inheritance tax.

              Application Process To The QRP

              Application forms for the Qualified Retirement Program in Belize can be acquired on the Belize Tourism Board website under Resources – Tourism Forms.

              Completed Application forms and the list of supporting documents for applicant and each dependent must be submitted to the Belize Tourism Board office on #64 Regent Street, Belize City, C.A.

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                All payments must be made payable to the Belize Tourism Board in the form of USD cash or USD Cashier’s check.

                • Birth Certificate – for the applicant and each dependent.
                • Marriage Certificate (If applying for dependents and spouse)
                • Authentic Police Record – from the last place of residency. (within 1 month of application)
                • Passport – clear copies of complete passport for applicant and all dependents.
                • Proof of Income – official statement from bank with pension or annuity amount and written undertaking for required USD $2,000 monthly or USD $24,000 annual deposit.
                • Medical Examination – medical certificate with HIV results for applicant and dependents.
                • Photos – 4 (front) and 4 (profile) recent passport photographs of applicant and dependents.Fee payable at application submission:
                  USD $150.00 – Application Fee (non-refundable)Fees payable at acceptance:
                  USD $1,000.00 – Applicant Program Fee
                  USD $750.00 each – Dependent Program Fee
                  USD $200.00 – QRP Program Card Fee*Annual Renewal Fee BZD $50.00

                Visa Options In Belize Outside The QRP

                Obtain A Visa Through A Work Work Permit

                There are two ways of obtaining a work permit.

                1. You receive a job offer from a Belizean company. The company will apply for the permit and do the relevant paperwork for you.
                2. You apply for a Self Employed work permit. You will need to do this yourself or through an attorney.

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                  Is It Easy To Get A Work Permit?

                  In a word, no. The Belizean government won’t issue a work permit for any job that could be otherwise done by a Belizean.

                  As a result, you need to find a job where you are not competing with the existing labor pool. This isn’t easy.

                  It is easier to go through the Self Employed route. You will need to prove that you are offering something different.

                  Get creative with the job title. If you have a specialist´s training be sure to highlight it in your application.

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                    How About Permanent Residency?

                    Permanent residency means you can both live and work in Belize indefinitely. It’s not easy to get this golden ticket.

                    You need to spend a full year in Belize, with a maximum of just 12 days out of the country.

                    There is also a police interview, background check and a means test to prove your income.

                    The fee is US$1,000 plus a deposit which can range from US$100 to US$1,200. This is refunded three years after your residency has been given.

                    Check out the official Permanent Residence Application Guide

                    How To Retire On US$2,000 Per Month In Belize

                    One of the big reasons we set our monthly estimate at $2,000 is the Qualified Retiree Program. It requires a monthly income of at least $2,000.

                    In fact, people who live frugally in more rural parts of Belize get by on far less.

                    Adventurous bloggers living in small villages report monthly budgets of around $600. Meanwhile, many couples get by on around $1,200.

                    At $2,000 income per month, you meet QRP requirements and can live comfortably. You can use the following budget to cover expenses and save:

                    Example Budget To Retire Belize $2000 Monthly Costs

                     
                    Expense Monthly Budget in $USD
                    Rent $700
                    Groceries $300
                    Savings $200
                    Utilities $200
                    Entertainment $200
                    Cable & Internet $150
                    Miscellaneous $150
                    Calling & Text $50
                    Public Transportation $25
                    Hired Help $25
                    Total $2,000

                    As long as you cut expenses and set money aside for a rainy day, retiring in Belize can be an inexpensive dream come true.

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                      Cost Of Immigration In Belize

                      You should also set money aside for the following fees:

                      • Non-refundable application fee of $150
                      • Applicant program fee after acceptance of $1,000
                      • For each qualifying family member, an additional fee of $750
                      • Fee after receiving QRP Residency Card of $200
                      • Annual renewal fee of $50
                      • Total: $2,150

                      A bachelor can expect to pay $1,350 upfront for residency as a retiree. A married couple would pay $2,100.

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                        Some people complete the process on their own. Those who rely on legal services may end up paying up to $5,000 for all immigration costs.

                        As for the actual move, you can buy passage aboard a cruise ship for under $500 if it leaves from Florida or Louisiana ports.

                        The cost of airfare to Belize depends on where you fly in from. You can catch a flight for under $500 in California. Expect to pay closer to $800 from states that are further away, such as New York.

                        Shipping Personal Items To Belize

                        Ideally, when you retire in a foreign country, you downsize significantly. The best situation involves you moving with just a few suitcases.

                        If you plan to set up a house in Belize with your old belongings, you may decide to ship them. The cost of doing so varies based on a number of factors:

                        • Cubic footage of the shipment
                        • Packing options, such as crates
                        • Shipping by sea or air

                        Most companies are tightlipped about their shipping costs until they complete a survey of your home or the items you want to move.

                        Some estimates we’ve seen show that you can ship enough belongings to fill a 20-foot container for under $5,000.

                        Note that you currently pay no taxes or duties on one shipment of personal items and one motor vehicle.

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                          Housing Opportunities In Belize

                          Home in Placencia, Belize.

                          If the initial costs are starting to look a little high, consider the savings on real estate. Meanwhile, there are some Americans who plan to retire in Belize like royalty. So, they end up spending as much or more on housing in Belize than at home.

                          Then, there are more frugal Americans who choose Belize for cost savings. These retirees can spend up to 75% less than the cost of rent or a mortgage in the U.S.

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                            Investment Opportunities In Belize

                            The tourist areas may seem too expensive to live in for most retirees. However, they may provide the perfect opportunity for owning an investment property.

                            From beach houses on private islands to villas in the cities, there are plenty of opportunities for becoming a landlord or Airbnb host.

                            This may help to supplement your income. Still, it’s important to rely on trusted local expertise to guide you when investing in real estate.

                            You don’t want to end up purchasing property that looks great but It´d be difficult to find tenants for. Working with someone who knows the area well is best.

                            Airbnb estimates that hosts can earn roughly $2,056 per month if they offer an entire place that rooms four guests. This is based on the expectation of only 15 nights rented per month at the going rate.

                            To sum up, making extra money on the side to supplement your pension or Social Security check is a great idea. But, how far it stretches depends on your spending habits.

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                              Cost Comparisons

                              For the most part, Belize saves you money when purchasing goods and services. Note that one dollar in American money equals $2 in Belizean currency.

                              Here are some of the expenses you may come across in Belize translated to USD. How this compares to your costs in the U.S. may depend on where you live and your quality preferences:

                              • Three-course meal for two at a restaurant — $36
                              • One pint of domestic beer — $2
                              • 12 oz bottle of water — $0.89
                              • One dozen eggs — $1.87
                              • Gym membership for one adult — $28.42
                              • One ticket for the movies — $7.48

                              Wiring Your Retirement Money to Belize

                              When you become a qualified retiree, you’re required to deposit $2,000 per month in a Belizean bank account. So, the good news is that banking in Belize is safe.

                              Belizean banks adhere to strict standards. They get audited once and sometimes even twice per year to ensure compliance.

                              Even so, if you’ve become accustomed to living on credit in America, you may want to reconsider this in your new home. Interest rates are often high and the loan-to-value ratio is around 50%.

                              This is one of the reasons people tend to purchase real estate in full when they can instead of relying on a mortgage.

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                                But What About If I Want To Live On Less?

                                Family Saving Money

                                Can I Retire In Belize For US$1,500 A Month?

                                You can absolutely retire in Belize on US$1,500 a month. Bur, this will prevent you from getting a residency or a QRP visa though, as the minimum threshold is US$2,000 per month.

                                What Will My Standard Of Living Be Like?

                                Much higher than in the United States. The average salary in Belize is around US$800 per month. This means your money is worth almost double the average wage.

                                In the United States, the average salary is US$3,714 per month. In many places, your US$1,500 wouldn’t even cover the rent.

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                                  When you factor in that rent, bills, and fresh produce are all far lower in Belize, you realize how far your money can go.

                                  On the other hand, you will need to make some changes though. U.S. brand goods need importing and cost a lot more. You can’t live on a budget here without making the change to locally grown, fresh produce.

                                  Example Budget To Retire In Belize 1500 Monthly Costs

                                   
                                  Expense Monthly Budget in $USD
                                  Food $250
                                  Electricity $200
                                  Water $75
                                  Household Gas $25
                                  Television $25
                                  Internet & Phone $100
                                  Eating Out/Other Entertainment $150
                                  Miscellaneous Costs $100
                                  Household Help $200
                                  Property Taxes $10
                                  Homeowner’s Insurance $150
                                  Car Registration $8
                                  Car Insurance $30
                                  Car Maintenance $25
                                  Car Gas $150
                                  Total $1,498

                                  Retire In Belize On US$1 Million

                                  Retire on 1m in Belize

                                  Well done on saving US$1 million for your retirement. For a long time, this amount was considered the ideal amount to save for comfortable retirement.

                                  While it is still a significant amount, it doesn’t go as far in the States as it once did. Instead of enjoying your million-dollar retirement, people are now focusing on how to get by on a million dollars in retirement.

                                  But it’s not like this everywhere.

                                  For example, moving overseas can allow you a much higher standard of living. In some countries, a million dollars is still a very decent nest egg.

                                  Certainly, the strong dollar helps. So does the low cost of living you can find outside the American borders.

                                  Central America has some the best options for expats wanting to retire on US$1 million.

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                                    Is It Safe To Move US$1 Million To Belize?

                                    Yes. A Belizian bank is actually one of the safest places to put your money.

                                    Belizean banks must always have at least 24% liquidity. Most importantly, high liquidity is one of the best ways to inspire investor confidence. So, banks with low liquidity can be vulnerable to going bust.

                                    Money in a Belize bank account can be a great way to protect your wealth too. And, if you ever found yourself losing a legal case, any money in Belize would not be recoverable by the claimant.

                                    However, it is not wise to move all your money to Belize. Diversification is always the best strategy, and having all your money in one place leaves you vulnerable.

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                                      What Can I Do With This Extra Money?

                                      Renting in Belize leaves you with money to invest in other areas. With your spare capital, you can generate income streams that will ensure you don’t run out of money.

                                      Ironically, some of the best investments in Belize involve property. Buying a property and renting it out is a great way to get an income stream going. And with the property market continuing to strengthen you have a chance to make some nice money on your investment too.

                                      Banking In Belize

                                      Getting a Belizean bank account is a great way to protect your money.

                                      Belizean banks are subject to strict laws to ensure security for customers. Belizean banks are a very safe place to put your money.

                                      A bank in Belize offers a high level of privacy and protection. You still have to pay your taxes of course, but nobody can freeze your assets in Belize.

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                                        How To Send Money To Belize

                                        First, you’ll need to set up a bank account in Belize. Bring all your essential paperwork, such as your passport, visa and other information.

                                        Choose a bank that has a local branch near your new residence but is also a large national or international corporation for added safety.

                                        Set up a transfer between your two banks. This will allow you to keep your Social Security funds in a U.S. bank, which can be safer than a Belize bank account. It’s a great option if you’re unsure whether you’ll stay in Belize or choose to move to a new country for your retirement.

                                        The Social Security Administration also allows you to directly deposit your check into an account in 69 different countries around the world, including Belize. You’ll need to fill out a direct deposit form, which asks for your contact information in Belize and your Belizean bank account.

                                        Once filled out, you’ll receive your payment in the form of Belize dollars. This makes it easier to spend money and make payments in Belize but can cost you more in transfer costs and exchange rates if you decide to move to a new country during your retirement.

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                                          The Case For Buying

                                          Buying a property in Belize will take up a big piece of your retirement budget. However there are some reasons why it can be a good idea.

                                          The first is that real estate prices in Belize, especially in the popular tourist and expat parts, are rising. An investment in real estate can be a good place to park your money but there are a couple of important things to remember.

                                          One is that, market liquidity is high in popular areas, but in the countryside can be very slow. If you bought a property in the countryside and needed to sell quickly, you could be in trouble.

                                          In the tourist and expat areas, the liquidity is mostly in mid-priced properties. Splashing out on a very expensive property could also leave you stranded if you needed to sell urgently.

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                                            The Case For Renting

                                            The case for renting in Belize is also strong. And, if you want to enjoy a luxury lifestyle, a million-dollar budget will allow you to rent just about anywhere you like.

                                            Firstly, by not buying a property you will also have more cash available for things like trips back to the U.S. and for any emergencies that might occur.

                                            Secondly, renting allows you extra flexibility too. If you decide you want to live somewhere else, renting means you can do this easily.

                                            Can I Retire To Belize Part-Time?

                                            This is one of the most popular options. Snowbirds love to come here to escape the cold weather. Belize is warm all year, but the best weather coincides with the worst weather in the northern hemisphere.

                                            You can enjoy the best of both worlds if you choose this option.

                                            Also, It can be a budget-friendly decision. If you buy a property in Belize, you can rent it out for some income while you are not living there.

                                            If you choose to rent, you will enjoy having to pay for less than half the year.

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                                              Panama

                                              Panama has a more developed infrastructure than Belize, with better transport links and healthcare. The downside is the price. The popular expat areas are far more expensive than Belize. If you don’t mind learning another language, you can find affordable places to live in the Panama countryside.

                                              Mexico

                                              Panoramic view of the Mazatlan scenic sea shire line, Mexico

                                              Mexico is another option to consider. There is a range of living options, and like Belize, you can simply drive to your new home.

                                              Like Panama, the English-speaking areas come with a higher price tag but if you are willing to learn Spanish you can find some bargains. But, Mexico doesn’t offer the same tax benefits as Belize but you can now buy real estate here which is a plus.

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                                                Receiving Your Social Security In Belize

                                                Social Security Overseas

                                                Retiring in Belize on Social Security

                                                Firstly, before planning your Belizean retirement with Social Security, here’s a quick reminder of the basic qualifications of these benefits. Most importantly, be sure you are eligible for Social Security before starting your new life in Belize.

                                                You must have paid into Social Security for at least 40 quarters, or 10 years, before becoming eligible for benefits. The typical age of collection is 65 if you were born before 1937.

                                                If you were born after 1960, the typical age of collection is 67. But, as long as you’re eligible, you can begin collecting anytime between 62 and 70; you’ll simply receive a reduced retirement check if you begin collecting early.

                                                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.

                                                In short, make sure the Social Security Administration has your valid mailing address in Belize to receive any questionnaires or other important information.

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                                                  How To Deposit U.S. Social Security Into Your Belize Bank Account

                                                  There are two basic ways you can receive your Social Security check while in Belize. Above all, choose which option best fits your retirement situation:

                                                  1. Deposit your check in a U.S. bank account and wire funds to a Belize bank account
                                                  2. Deposit funds in a Belize bank account

                                                  If you decide to deposit your check in an American bank account and then wire your funds, you need to choose a safe and convenient wiring service.

                                                  Thankfully, there are many financial institutions and private companies that make it easy to send and receive money while abroad. So, here are a few common companies to send your U.S. funds to a bank account in another country and currency:

                                                  • TransferWise
                                                  • OFX
                                                  • Xoom
                                                  • MoneyGram
                                                  • Western Union

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                                                    Benefits Of Retiring In Belize On Social Security

                                                    The Qualified Retired Persons Program in Belize is an exciting way to spend your retirement years soaking up the sun and enjoying beautiful beaches and local scenery.

                                                    So, when you choose to retire in Belize on Social Security, you can enjoy a number of benefits.

                                                    Firstly, you can import many of your household goods and personal items without paying import duties. This includes larger items such as cars, planes, and boats.

                                                    Secondly, find out if you can still work in consulting or other industries in Belize.

                                                    The Qualified Retired Persons Program in Belize allows you to still engage in gainful employment. Therefore, your employment must be exclusive with non-residents of Belize, so any consulting or online work is a great option for retirees.

                                                    Most importantly, as long as you are eligible for Social Security and have at least $2,000 per month in income, you can enjoy a comfortable retirement in the warm, friendly and beautiful towns and beaches of Belize.

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                                                      What Steps Do I Need To Take To Retire In Belize?

                                                      The first step is to visit Belize and spend some time there. So, live as a local for a few months and see how you like it. But, just book your ticket and go! Check out Kayak.com for flight tickets right now.

                                                      After that, decide if you want to retire to Belize full time, or just for winter. But, if you only want to retire for winter, you might be better off renting a property.

                                                      Look into the visa option that is going to work for you. Starting with a QRP visa is often a safe move. In other words, once you have imported your things here, duty free, you can decide on the next visa you want.

                                                      Will you drive your belongings here or send them in a shipping container? The roads here can be rough. But, just make sure you have a suitable vehicle if you’re planning to drive.

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                                                        Pros And Cons Of Retiring In Belize

                                                        It’s Close To The USA

                                                        Belize is close to the USA. So, you can fly to and from Belize in a matter of hours. Flights here are cheaper than most other overseas expat destinations. As a result, this makes it easy for friends and family to visit. And, you can quickly fly home in case of an emergency.

                                                        Wide Range Of Living Opportunities

                                                        Belize has a diverse range of living options. As a result, there are miles of pristine Caribbean coastline. Also, you can choose to live in a busy beach town with an expat community.

                                                        But if you prefer peace and quiet, you can find lots of secluded spots too. Also, you can live in the cool air of the mountains, surrounded by jungle, or on the grassy plains in an off-the-grid community.

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                                                          Retire Part-Time Or Full-Time

                                                          Belize is a great destination for a part-time retirement.

                                                          The dry (summer) season here coincides with winter in the States. So, retire in Belize for the coldest months, and return home for the Spring and summer.

                                                          English Is The Official Language Of Belize

                                                          Move to Belize and you won’t need to worry about learning a new language.English is spoken throughout Belize. And, if you are keen to learn another language there are three Mayan languages the locals converse in.

                                                          A Top Tax Haven

                                                          Belize is a tax haven. Income earned from overseas is not taxable.

                                                          The government is keen to have foreigners bring their money here, and the low tax rate is one of the perks they use to encourage this. In other words, you can bring your pension here tax-free.

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                                                            Reduce Your Stress Levels

                                                            Belize is the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life. The pace of life here is known as “Belize Time”. Stores open later than the advertised times. Nobody rushes for anything. Some might find this difficult at first. However, living without worry can put years on your life, and help you remember exactly what is important.

                                                            Protect Your Wealth By Investing Overseas

                                                            A real estate investment in Belize is a great way to diversify your portfolio. So, by owning assets outside the USA you give yourself some extra security in case something goes wrong in the States.

                                                            Low Cost Of Living

                                                            Your money goes further in Belize. You can expect to improve your standard of living by moving to Belize. Food costs, rent, bills, just about all of your expenses will be a lot less in Belize.

                                                            The Chance For A New Adventure In Belize

                                                            Most importantly, broaden your horizons. Moving to another country is good for personal development. However, you will need to learn some new skills and are going to find a lot of new experiences. If you’re someone who is looking for an adventure or some excitement, a move to Belize will offer both.

                                                            Strong Expat Presence

                                                            Belize has an established expat community. You can move to Belize and find a group of likeminded expats there waiting. But, if you prefer to live away from the expat crowds, that’s possible too.

                                                            Cons in Retiring in Belize

                                                            No Shopping Malls

                                                            If you live to shop Belize is not for you. On the other hand, there are very few shopping malls and goods tend to be expensive. Driving over the border into Mexico is an option if you want to find some U.S. style shopping malls.

                                                            Parties Can Be Late And Noisy

                                                            If you are looking for a quiet retirement, Belize may not be for you. Of course, you can find secluded areas but in general, Belizeans like to enjoy life and you celebrate at any opportunity. Parties can last all night, and requests to turn down the music are unlikely to be listened too.

                                                            Health Care Is Basic

                                                            If you require special health care, Belize is not the best country to live in. In short, medical care here is basic. Luckily, you are close enough that you can fly back to the United States should you need to.

                                                            High Heat And Humidity In Belize

                                                            Belize is a hot, humid country. If you do not enjoy subtropical weather and everything that goes with it, don’t retire in Belize. It sounds too obvious to even mention but the heat is exceptional. Living with it full-time is very different from a couple of weeks in the sun.

                                                            Creepy Crawlies

                                                            Bugs, snakes, spiders, even crocodiles are all things you need to consider when living in Belize. With a little care, they won’t be a big problem, but they are real-life considerations here.

                                                            Culture Vultures Should Pass

                                                            If you are keen on cultural events such as museums, theatre, opera, then you should know that you can’t find these in Belize. However, there is lots of great live music.

                                                            Very Basic Infrastructure

                                                            Belize does not have a developed infrastructure system. For example, there are busses who can get you around the country but they are infrequent and don’t appear to follow a timetable. So, if you want to travel freely in Belize you will need your own vehicle.

                                                            Lack Of Structure

                                                            If you are the sort of person who craves order and certainty in life, Belize could be difficult. It’s not just the people in Belize who run on Belize-time.

                                                            Businesses will generally open when they are ready, and even government agencies use this laid-back timetable.

                                                            Digital Nomads Will Need Better Internet

                                                            Living in Belize is not a good idea for digital nomads. In other words, the internet is slow and unreliable. Also, Belize also suffers from frequent electricity outages. And, if you have deadlines or need to be online regularly, Belize will drive you insane.

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                                                              Where Are The Best Places To Retire On A Strict Budget?

                                                              A yellow sand beach in Belize. move to belize

                                                              Assuming you are happy to retire here on a tourist visa though, your best option is Cayo. Here are a couple of interesting places to help you start your search.

                                                              Cayo

                                                              Beautiful green scenery with a waterfall in Cayo, Belize

                                                              Cayo is rural living at its best. The Cayo countryside is quiet and peaceful, perfect for enjoying the wonder of nature in Belize.

                                                              It’s easy to live like a local here, although there are some expat bars and restaurants to be found too.

                                                              Santa Familia Village

                                                              A quiet countryside village northwest of San Ignacio.

                                                              The community here is mostly Spanish-speaking. Plus, the main village is made up of a few small grocery stores and street food vendors.

                                                              Also, the community spirit is very noticeable here. Foreigners are starting to arrive but prices, including real estate, are low.

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                                                                Spanish Lookout

                                                                Spanish Lookout, Belize

                                                                Spanish Lookout is the major agricultural center in Belize. You will never find it easier to eat fresh, healthy, local produce.

                                                                There is a strong Mennonite presence here. However, they have moved with the times and use modern technologies. In fact, it is one of the most modern places in Belize.

                                                                Spanish Lookout feels like Midwest America from years gone by.

                                                                Don’t let financing concerns hold you back from your dream of a tropical retirement. As long as you are eligible for the Qualified Retiree Program, you can reach your goal of retiring Belize Social Security.

                                                                Learn more about the underlying costs and steps you need to take to retire comfortably in Belize.