Belize’s major entry requirement is testing negative for COVID-19. While those arriving without a PCR test result would be given a double rapid test at its international airport, Belize will now also accept negative rapid test results taken within 48 hours to arrival.
The Rapid Antigen, Sophia, SD Bisensor, ABBOT (Panbio) tests are accepted in Belize.
With this addition as of December 20 with SI No. 175 02 2020, Belize now accepts a 48-hour rapid test result and 96-hour PCR test result prior to arrival. Additionally, Belize defines a “rapid test” as a test for the rapid, qualitative detection of the nucleocapsid protein antigen from SARS-CoV2 in a human nasal swab or throat swab specimen. If you have neither option, a rapid test will be administered inside Belize’s international airport’s health clinic at a cost of US$50, at the expense of the traveler.
What other entry requirements does Belize mandate?
Look out for the seal of approval on Gold Standard accommodations. Photo by Las Terrazas Resort & Residencies
As a tourist, you must book and stay at a Gold Standard approved hotel (list found here). Additionally, you must also download the Belize Travel Health app, which has a form that you’ll need to fill out. Although the PCR test is considered the “gold standard” of testing, Belize accepts any other approved test for SARS-CoV2, taken within 48 hours prior to arrival in Belize. While Belize has implemented a Tourism Safe Corridor of businesses and sites that abide by the country’s Gold Standard Health & Safety, it remains a recommendation and not a requirement.
What happens if I test negative at the airport in Belize?
Travelers can leave the airport and await their rapid test results at their Gold Standard accommodation. However, if testing positive, they will need to enter a mandatory quarantine at their hotel until cleared by the Ministry of Health & Wellness.
