Retiring in Belize
Belize has one of the world’s best retiree programs through the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program.
QRP Program for Those Who Want to Retire in Belize
Belizean government provides retiree’s tax exemption on all income generated outside Belize. You must be at least 45 years old, and be able to show that you have solid income to deposit a minimum of $2,000 or more per month. and you must spend one month of the year residing in Belize.
It gets better: qualified retirees can bring all their personal belongings that includes your car, boat, plane, and whatever else you may have without having to pay import duties or taxes if you do it within the first year as a QRP resident.
The Basics of Belize Retirement
Cost of Living
For those who are used to prices in the U.S., Canada and Europe, retiring to Belize can be a bargain. Housing in Belize is in general significantly less than comparable housing in the U.S., Canada or Europe. Also hiring a housekeeper or a cook to help around the house is affordable, with a full-time housekeeper costing about US$15 to US$20 per day. Utilities are relatively inexpensive also, about 25% less than in North America. Belize’s tropical climate eliminates expensive winter fuel bills and the sea breeze mean less air conditioning.
If you learn to live as Belizeans live, such as buying local produce, you can reduce expenses even more. A retired couple with US$2,000 per month can live in style in Belize.
What makes Belize different?
This small Central American country, nestled just south of Mexico and east of Guatemala boasts a population of kind, friendly people, a long-standing stable, democratic government, quality and affordable healthcare, a progressive and growing infrastructure, and a positive attitude on protecting its’ pristine natural resources.
Belize, with the Caribbean to the East and a plethora of waterfalls, rivers and lagoons, is a land with an abundance of water-based activities for active people.
Those features coupled with the mountains, caves and rain forests, provide the splendor and treasure of terrain, temperature and one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, further yielding an unparalleled number of fauna and flora relative to its size. With so many people throughout the world exploring and relocating to Belize, it serves as an incredible location to a growing number of expatriates from the U.S., Canada and Europe. And what do you do when you get there?
Basically anything you want. Retirees can easily meet new friend with whom to explore the infinite number of activities Belize has to offer. Belize is the perfect, open-minded, welcoming destination to re-invent yourself.
Why choose Belize to retire?
Belize has all the comforts of home for less money in a relaxed tropical paradise. It has become the ultimate relocation and retirement destination. The warmth of its people and its’ climate have attracted thousands of Americans, Canadians and Europeans, but the advantages of living in Belize extend far beyond its tropical hot-spot reputation.
More information for potential retirees…
Belizean Food
Belize food may be a different than what you are accustomed to, as with living or retiring to any country, but you will probably enjoy the natural differences… an endless variety of inexpensive fresh meats, fish, market fruits and vegetables.
Strategic, Accessible Location
Belize is conveniently located close to the U.S., Mexico and Caribbean islands, which makes for quick and easy access by plane from the U.S.
There is a centrally located international airport just outside Belize City. There are commuter flights throughout the country going to and from the major towns. The taxi drivers are friendly and knowledgeable guides.
People
Belizeans are wonderful because they are such a friendly, spirited, educated, polite and kind people. They are open-minded and eager to assist.
Government Stability
Belize is a British Commonwealth country with a longstanding democratic tradition and independent judiciary.
21 Reasons to Retire to Belize
• The low cost of living in Belize is a major draw for North Americans and Europeans whether permanently relocating or merely having a second home or vacation getaway.
• The Belize Government offers excellent retirement advantages and incentives.
• Belize is the only English speaking country in Central America. All signs and government forms are in English. English is the primary language taught and spoken in all schools.
• Foreigners can own real estate in Belize.
• Belize is close to the United States and Canada enabling travel back and forth quickly and inexpensively.
• Belizeans are friendly and charming. Even first time visitors are welcomed by their genuine hospitality.
• Title to property in Belize may be taken individually, jointly or in a corporate name.
• You receive fee simple title to your property when purchasing in Belize.
• There is easy access to find a building lot to construct your dream home.
• Financing is often available when purchasing property in Belize.
• The government of this Caribbean haven is offering incentives to encourage more tourism.
• Cruise ship tourism is up 300% in five years. This tropical paradise is on the way to becoming the best destination for retirees, expats and property owners.
• Belize is a British Commonwealth country with a longstanding democratic tradition and independent judiciary.
• Belize is naturally beautiful, with an abundance of natural resources and things to see such as aqua blue waters, quiet beaches, an extensive diversity of birds and wildlife, Mayan ruins, waterfalls, rainforests, rivers, caves and tropical forests.
• Belize protects 60% of its tropical forests with over 500 species of birds.
• Belize has some of the friendliest, kindest people in the world.
• There is a stable, fixed exchange rate. US$1=BZ$2.
• Belize has the second largest barrier reef in the world making its’ waters some of the best dive sites in the Hemisphere.
• Belize offers superb river fishing, fly fishing and big game fishing.
• Belize was once a center of the ancient Mayan world.
• The sizeable retirement community offers opportunity
