Country guide · Latin America
Veterans in Belize
English-speaking, with the Qualified Retired Persons program and duty-free import of household goods.
Language
English
Former British colony
Residency
QRP
USD 2,000/mo
VA presence
None
FMP reimbursement
Time zone
UTC-6
BZD pegged 2:1
Entering Belize
30 days, extendable monthly.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- Qualified Retired Persons (QRP): USD 2,000/month from a pension or annuity outside Belize, and at least 30 consecutive days a year in Belize. Household goods, a vehicle, a boat and an aircraft can be imported duty-free. Foreign income is tax-exempt.
VA care and benefits in Belize
No VA facilities. Foreign Medical Program reimbursement.
Healthcare
Limited. Serious cases often go to Mérida, Mexico, or the U.S.
Where veterans live
- Ambergris Caye (San Pedro): Island living.
- Placencia: Beach village.
- Corozal: Cheap, close to Mexico.
- San Ignacio (Cayo): Inland jungle.
Cost of living
Roughly USD 1,500–2,500 a month. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle. Health insurance is not included.
Money, language and time
Belize dollar (BZD) · English · UTC-6
Buying property
Freehold ownership is allowed for foreigners.
Watch out for
Avoid Southside Belize City.
Veteran organizations
None confirmed. See veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
Is there an English-speaking country in Central America for retirees?
Belize. Its QRP program requires USD 2,000 a month in pension or annuity income.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.