Belize officially reopened its international airport for travel and tourism on October 1. While a 72-hour old PCR Test result was previously accepted prior to departure, Belize has now extended that time frame to be 4 days before arrival. As of December 20, Belize now accepts a negative PCR test result within 4 days of arrival, or a negative 48-hour Rapid Test result prior to arrival. Both results will inherently “fast track” your process through the Philip Goldson International Airport upon arrival, which is the only open port of entry at the moment. Although while COVID-19 pre-testing is strongly recommended to travel to Belize, it is also optional. You can still land in the country without one, but you must test negative for COVID-19 to enter. Updated to Belize’s entry requirements became effective with Statutory Instrument number 175.
What happens if I arrive in Belize without a negative test result?
In certain countries, taking a PCR test and getting results within 96 hours of travel can be difficult or expensive. Instead, on arrival, you’ll head to the airport’s health clinic for a double rapid test should you arrive without one; this is at your own expense of US$50, before you then proceed to immigration & customs. After exiting the airport, your rapid test results are delivered to you while at your Gold Standard accommodation. If negative, you are free to roam responsibly. Social distancing and face masks are required in public spaces.
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 requirement.
Feature photo: Tourists arrive in Belize on United’s inaugural flight from Denver, Colorado on December 19, 2020. Photo courtesy of the Belize Tourism Board.
