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Scroll for information on Official Vaccination & Testing sites, the Latest in Travel Entry requirements through the International Airport, Land Border or Cruise visits, and Frequently Asked Questions.

Belize Health & Safety Update

Effective July 12, 2022, The Belize Tourism Board advises that the Government of Belize has decided to remove all public health measures at the points of entry in Belize (land and sea).

Vacationing in Belize is a life enriching experience and we want to ensure that visitors enjoy it immensely. Our intent is to also safeguard the well-being of all our visitors and the premise ensures that travelers are confident that they are covered and protected from unforeseen events related to their travel. This affordable plan of US$18 for a 21 day coverage, provides you not only with financial protection and peace of mind while enjoying your Belize vacation, but more importantly, provides coverage for medical treatment if needed.

 

Belize Travel Health Insurance

Effective July 12, 2022, all Foreign Tourists entering Belize will have the option to purchase the Belize travel insurance. It is no longer mandatory but is highly recommended by the Belize Tourism Board.
Additional information can be found in our general FAQs.
Belize Travel Health Insurance can be purchased HEREHERE

Entry Requirements & Protocols for Entering BelizeClick to enlarge & view details

Frequently Asked QuestionsClick through the tabs to read more

Who Can Visit Belize?

What are the requirements for entering Belize?

  • Effective July 12, 2022,  travellers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination for entry into Belize’s airport, land borders or sea ports.
  • Unvaccinated travellers are no longer required to show proof of a negative PCR or a negative Antigen Rapid test upon arrival.
  • Every child under the age of 18 years will not be required to show proof of vaccination upon entry into Belize through airport, land or sea port.

Are The Results Of Home Testing Kits Accepted For Entry Into Belize

To date no approval has been granted by the Ministry of Health for the importation of Antigen Home Tests by any manufacturer. Therefore, results from these tests are not accepted for entry to Belize. To import a test kit, the traveller must apply to the Ministry of Health. If travellers are found with home test kits during clearance at the entry point, and are unable to provide a permit from the Belize Ministry of Health, the kits will be confiscated.

Upon Arrival In Belize, What Will The Immigration And Customs Process Entail?

Enhanced health and safety measures have been adapted to protect both officers and arriving passengers.  Some of these measures include protective barriers to reduce contact between the officers and the passengers, kiosks for scanning of passports upon entry, luggage scanners in the Customs Hall, and safety barriers where inspection of luggage is required.

Does Belize Offer COVID Testing For Travellers When Departing The Country?

Yes, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is now offering COVID testing for passengers travelling to the US, Canada, and other destinations that require proof of a negative COVID test for entry.  For information on testing sites and cost, please contact [email protected] or feel free to contact your hotel’s front desk for testing options near you.

Do I need a Travel Health Insurance when travelling to Belize?

Effective July 12, 2022, all Foreign Tourists entering Belize will not be required to purchase travel health insurance from a local insurance company.

Purchase of the Belize Travel Health Insurance is now optional but encouraged. 

Do I Need To Purchase The Belize Travel Health Insurance Even If I Already Have A Personal Travel Insurance?

No

Will Children Need To Purchase The Belize Travel Health Insurance Too?

Purchase of the Belize Travel Health Insurance is now optional but encouraged.

Can I Purchase The Belize Travel Health Insurance Prior To My Trip?

Yes, the Belize Travel Insurance will be available for purchase online at www.belizetravelinsurance.com.

It can also be purchased upon arrival at the Philip Goldson International Airport, Santa Elena Border (Northern Border) or the Belize Western Border.

Can A Travel Agent, Tour Operator Or Hotel Purchase The Belize Travel Insurance On My Behalf Prior To My Trip?

Yes, a hotel, travel agent or tour operator is able to purchase the Belize Travel Insurance for their clients or guests. However, it cannot be done in bulk.  A policy will need to be submitted or purchased individually.

When Does The Policy Become Effective?

The policy coverage will commence the day the person is legally in Belize.

What Does The Belize Travel Health Insurance Cover?

  • The Belize Travel Insurance policy covers visitors for medical emergencies up to the Maximum policy limit of US $50,000.00 for the low cost of US $18 for a period of 21days.
  • It will also cover the cost of emergency treatment, diagnostic services, outpatient care, medical equipment, hospital stay, in-hospital miscellaneous charges, emergency room, emergency surgery, emergency transportation by local ambulance, prescription drugs all at 100% of eligible expenses, up to the policy limit.
  • The lodging expenses at a certified Gold Standard accommodation due to Sanitary Isolation because of the Pandemic (Covid 19) up to US$2,000.00 (Max US $300.00 per day).
  • This policy will also cover Reimbursement of Hotel Expenses for a Gold Standard accommodation due to inability to travel. It covers some pre-paid lodging expenses if insured is unable to travel to Belize due to: Sickness, injury, or death of the insured or a family member once legitimate proof is provided.

* To be eligible for this benefit, the insured must have purchased this policy before the date of trip/arrival to Belize. Coverage will only reimburse hotel fees that are not refunded by the hotel. It does not cover fees paid to private rental properties (for example Airbnb).

The maximum amount reimbursable under this benefit is US $3,000 per person.

  • This policy will also provide cover for Emergency Assistance Services which include, Emergency air evacuation and transportation of a close relative up to a combined maximum of US $20,000.00, and repatriation of mortal remains up to US$5,000.00 and also covers for Emergency expenses related to pre-existing conditions up to a combined maximum limit of US$25,000.00

Will I Be Able To Purchase An Insurance Claim In Advance If I Am Planning To Stay Longer Than 21 Days?

Yes, an extended coverage can be purchased in advance if your trip is longer than 21 days.

Will I Be Able To Renew The Policy After 21 Days I I Decide To Stay Longer?

Yes, coverage can be renewed if you need to extend your stay. Simply call the contact center before expiration of coverage and they can guide you through the process.

How Do I File An Insurance Claim?

Calling the Emergency Contact Center to file a claim. They will be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and will be able to guide you through the process.

Is There A Deductible On This Policy?

No, there is no deductible.

Does This Policy Cover Me Outside Of Belize?

No, this policy does not provide coverage outside of Belize.

How Will Verification Of Coverage Be Done?

Verification will be carried out by the Belize Immigration Department upon arrival into Belize.

Can I pay for my Belize Travel Insurance with cash at the land border points or PGIA?

No. Payments can only be made using a credit card at the land borders or PGIA.

Can I still purchase the Belize Travel Insurance if I am registered under the QRP program?

Yes, registered QRP’s can still purchase the Belize Travel Insurance. He/she will need to provide a valid ID and a letter of approval from the Belize Tourism Board in order to purchase the insurance.

What Specific Measures Are Being Taken In Belize To Protect Visitors From Contracting The COVID-19 Virus?

The country’s primary concern is to assure both travellers and residents that Belize’s tourism product is safer than ever before.  A series of new enhanced health and safety protocols have been put in place to protect visitors, Belizeans, and our communities.

These include:

  1. Purchase of the Belize Travel Health Insurance is now optional but encouraged.
  2. Introduction of the “Tourism Gold Standard Program” which seeks to enhance the tourism industry’s health and safety standards by adapting new behaviours and procedures to ensure both employees and travellers are confident in the cleanliness and safety of Belize’s tourism product.

Belize has also been recognized by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and is now one of two hundred destinations using the Councils “Safe Travels Stamp” – the world’s first global safety and hygiene mark that indicates that a destination has adopted global standardized health and hygiene protocols.

Can I Stay At A Non-Gold Standard Accommodation?

At this time, all tourists should book their stay at a BTB approved hotel.

Am I Required To Wear A Mask?

As of April 1, 2022 mask wearing is no longer required for indoor and outdoor spaces.

What Should I Do If I Start To Exhibit Symptoms During My Vacation?

If you start to exhibit any Covid-like symptoms, immediately notify your hotel’s front desk, and they will implement their Covid Response Plan.  Should you develop symptoms, and test positive for the virus while in country, you will be required to quarantine for at your expense.    The Belize’s Travel Health Insurance is mandatory for entry into Belize. It is highly recommended that you purchase this travel insurance prior to your trip to Belize as it supports coverage for expenses incurred due to COVID-19 diagnosis during your stay. For more information on what the Belize Travel Insurance provides, kindly visit the following link: HERE

If Someone At The Resort Where I'm Staying Tests Positive For COVID, Would Everyone Be Quarantined?

This is dependent on the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ contact tracing exercise. The hotel will utilize its communication plan to advise of any necessary steps to be taken.

Are There Any Restrictions On Movement For Tourists?

Tourists visiting Belize can move about freely, however it is recommended that they remain within the Tourism Safe Corridor.  The Tourism Safe Corridor includes Gold Standard certified accommodations, tour operators, tourism transportation providers, restaurants, tourism sites and attractions, and gift shops.  These Gold Standard and certified entities have all been trained and have implemented enhanced health and safety measures. For a list of Gold Standard certified entities, kindly check the following link:

  • As of March 1, 2022 all curfew mandates have been removed.

Does Belize Offer COVID Testing For Travellers When Departing The Country?

Yes, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is now offering COVID testing for passengers travelling to the US, Canada, and other destinations that require proof of a negative COVID test for entry.  For information on testing sites and cost, please contact [email protected], also feel free to check with your Hotel’s front desk for information on testing options near to you.

What Type Of Test/Proof Is Required For My Return?

Depending on your final destination, the following will apply:

Canada: Molecular Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) test conducted within 72 hours of the scheduled departure to Canada with written documentation of the lab test result.

USA: Effective November 8, 2021, U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents (LPRs) who are eligible to travel but are not fully vaccinated will need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test one (1) day before their flight’s departure. U.S citizens and LPRs who are fully vaccinated will need to present airlines with proof of vaccination  and of a negative COVID-19 test three (3) days before their flight.

Documentation of the test result can be provided in paper or electronic format.

What Types Of Tests Does Belize Offer?

Belize offers both PCR and Antigen tests via public and private health facilities. You can find a detailed listing of testing sites here.

Does The Hotel Offer On-Site Testing?

Testing capabilities will vary by property.  Contact us for more specific information.

How Much Does The Test Cost?

Cost of the test varies on the facility and type of test required.  Antigen testing starts as low as US$75; we recommend that you contact the authorized facility directly to verify pricing.  Other options to further expand and reduce cost of testing are ongoing and include testing onsite in the departure terminals of the international airport.

Are Belize's Land And Sea Boarders Open?

Yes, The Government of Belize reopened the Western Border (Benque Viejo Del Carmen) and the Northern Border (Santa Elena) to both Foreign Tourists and locals.

Can Belizeans Travel Freely Through The Borders?

Yes, Belizeans can travel freely through our borders.

  • Persons entering Belize through the Belize Northern Border shall enter through the Chetumal Bridge ONLY.

What Are The Requirements For Entry Via The Land Borders?

  • What are the requirements for entering Belize?
    • Effective July 12, 2022,  travellers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination for entry into Belize’s airport, land borders or sea ports.
    • Unvaccinated travellers are no longer required to show proof of a negative PCR or a negative Antigen Rapid test upon arrival.
    • Every child under the age of 18 years will not be required to show proof of vaccination upon entry into Belize through airport, land or sea port.

What Should Travellers Expect Up Arrival At The Land Borders?

Foreign Travellers must note that during this phase the Western Border and the Northern Border shall be open to foreign tourists from: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm. All Sea Ports will be open from 6:00 am- 4:00pm. The following are additional requirements that you can expect when travelling through our Borders:

  • Hand sanitization stations will be made available to travellers.
  • All persons may be subject to COVID-19 testing upon arrival at the land border, at their own expense ($50 USD per test).
  • Any person testing positive for COVID-19 at the land border shall be placed in mandatory quarantine at the passengers’ expense.

Do I need to purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance when entering Belize at any land border point?

Purchase of the Belize Travel Health Insurance is now optional but encouraged.

Who can I contact if I need more information on COVID-19 or any other related travel information while in Belize?

The Belize Tourism Board has a Quality Concierge Desk that is ready to assist with your queries. Feel free to reach our Quality Concierge at:

  • Telephone: +(501) 227-2420 Ext. 292
  • Mobile (including WhatsApp)- + (501)-614-7935
  • Email: [email protected]

Are Belize's Cruise Ports Open To All Cruise Lines?

YES- Cruise Lines that have submitted a request to add Belize to their respective itineraries and meet all enhanced Health and Safety protocols are allowed to enter Belize waters.

Are There Any Restrictions To Enter Belize On A Cruise?

Belize has instituted a temporary travel ban on persons who have travelled to or originated from or have transited the Republic of India and the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. The temporary ban is due to the rising numbers of persons in these countries infected with the COVID-19 virus.

Do I Need A COVID-19 Vaccine To Cruise To Belize?

  • Cruise passengers should bring along an Official Vaccine Card reflecting the receipt of the dual or single dose vaccine at least two weeks prior to arrival.
  • Or, if you cannot provide proof of immunization a PCR test or rapid antigen test should be provided or taken within 72 hours prior to embarkation at the Home Port in addition to a secondary testing done on the day of embarkation with the approved rapid antigen tests.

Will Be Able To Book An Excursion While In Belize

Yes. At this time, fully vaccinated passengers can book excursions with Gold Standard Tour operators only. See link below. If you are not vaccinated, please ask your Shore Excursion desk on board for information on Bubble Tours.
https://belizetourismboard.org/industry-sectors/tourism-gold-standard-entities/

Will I Be Required To Wear Mask While In Belize?

As of 1 April 2022, mask wearing is no longer required for indoor and outdoor spaces.

Are Restaurants, Bars and Gift Shops Open In Belize?

Yes, as of 1 April 2022, bars and restaurants are open. Gifts shops remain operational.

https://belizetourismboard.org/industry-sectors/tourism-gold-standard-entities/

What Is A Gold Standard Entity?

A Gold Standard entity is one that has thoroughly followed the new safety procedures and has the guests’ safety as their utmost priority.

What Happens If I Display COVID-19 Symptoms?

If at any time you feel unwell, check-in with your Tour Guide or any security at the port to return to the ship for a check-up.

Visit Belize COVID-19 WebsiteThe Official COVID-19 website of Belize

See the latest from the Press Office, keep up to date with official Government reports, or find out more about COVID-19 Support Programs here.

Ministry of Health & Wellness Approved Testing & Vaccination SitesClick to on icon to view site details

Belize Medical Associates

Public Testing Facility for Travellers

Central Health Region

  • Telephone: 501-223-2722

Cleopatra White Polyclinic

Private Testing Facility for Travellers

Belize Diagnostic Center

Belize Healthcare Partners

Belize Medical Associates

* PCR & Parid Antigen testing done here

Caring Hands Antigen Test Center

* PCR & Parid Antigen testing done here

Dr. Dimas Sansorez

Public Testing Facilities for Travellers

Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic

  • Telephone: 501-226-2536

Private Testing Facilities for Travellers

Belize Diagnostic Center

Belize Physicians Associates Ltd.

*PCR & Rapid Antigen testing done here

  • Telephone: 501-226-2262

Caring Hands Antigen Test Center

*PCR & Rapid Antigen testing done here

Public Testing Facilities for Travellers

Caye Caulker Health Center

  • Telephone: 501-226-2536

Private Testing Facilities for Travellers

Belize Diagnostic Center

D's Clinic

*PCR & Rapid Antigen testing done here

  • Telephone: 501-620-2369

Private Testing Facilities for Travelers

St. Luke’s Medical Center

Belmopan Medical Center

Public Testing Facility for Travelers

Corozal Community Hospital

Public Testing Facility for Travelers

Northern Regional Hospital

Public Testing Facility for Travelers

San Ignacio Hospital

Western Regional Hospital

Private Testing Facility for Travelers

Caring Hands Antigen Test Center

*PCR & Rapid Antigen testing done here

Belize Diagnostic Center

Public Testing Facility for Travelers

Independence Polyclinic

Southern Regional Hospital

  • Telephone: 501-522-3832 / 501-522-3835

Private Testing Facility for Travelers

Caring Hands Antigen Test Center (Dangriga & Placencia locations)

*PCR & Rapid Antigen testing done here

Belize Diagnostic Center (Hopkins Village)

Public Testing Facility for Travellers

Punta Gorda Hospital

  • Telephone: 501-722-2026 / 501-722-2161

Click here for Rapid Antigen testing Concierge service provided by the Belize Diagnostic Center and authorised & regulated by the Ministry of Health & Wellness.