Moving to Belize: taxes, residence and life
How to become tax resident in Belize: personal, dividend and corporate tax, 6 residence programmes, tax-residency requirements and climate. Explore the basics and compare residence routes.
Taxes
In Belize the top income tax rate is 25%, dividends are taxed at up to 0% and companies pay 25% corporate tax.
How to move and become tax resident
To become tax resident in Belize you need at least 183 days a year (183 days in calendar year; QRP holders not taxed on foreign income). The typical route is Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) programme: Age ≥40, ≥US$2,000/mo foreign income deposited in Belize, security check; ~US$1k fee + US$750/dependant There are 4 open residence programmes in Belize — see the list below.
Living there
Belize City has a tropical monsoon climate with winter highs around 27.5 °C and summer highs around 31.5 °C.
Key facts
| Top income tax | 25% |
|---|---|
| Dividend tax | 0% |
| Corporate tax | 25% |
| 세법상 거주지 | 183일 후 — 183 days in calendar year; QRP holders not taxed on foreign income |
| 귀하의 경로 | Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) programme — Age ≥40, ≥US$2,000/mo foreign income deposited in Belize, security check; ~US$1k fee + US$750/dependant |
| 기후 유형 | tropical monsoon · 27.5° / 31.5° (Belize City) |
Residence programmes in Belize
Active programmes
- Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Incentive Programme — 소득 / 년 CHF 19'200 · 2026-10
- Permanent Residence — other · 2026-10
- Temporary Employment / Self-Employment Permit — employment · 2026-10
- Family Residence (dependants / spouse of Belizean) — family · 2026-10
Changes or availability under review
- Work Where You Vacation (remote work permit) — 소득 / 년 CHF 60'000 · 2026-10
Launched 2021 by Belize Tourism Board; current operation unconfirmed
Upcoming · not yet available
Proposed or legislated routes without a confirmed operational application process.
- Investor Residence Permit — 투자 CHF 400'000 · 2026-10
Immigration Amendment Bill introduced 2 Oct 2026; not yet law, no forms or fees
Plan your residence route
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need to spend in Belize to become tax resident?
183일 후. 183 days in calendar year; QRP holders not taxed on foreign income Mostly Belize-source taxation for individuals
How much tax will I pay in Belize?
In Belize the top income tax rate is 25%, dividends are taxed at up to 0% and companies pay 25% corporate tax.
Which residence programmes does Belize offer?
Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Incentive Programme; Permanent Residence; Temporary Employment / Self-Employment Permit; Family Residence (dependants / spouse of Belizean); Work Where You Vacation (remote work permit)
What is the usual way to move to Belize?
Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) programme. Age ≥40, ≥US$2,000/mo foreign income deposited in Belize, security check; ~US$1k fee + US$750/dependant
Compare with nearby countries
Argentina · Bolivia · Brazil · Canada · Chile · Colombia · Costa Rica · Cuba · Dominican Rep. · Ecuador · El Salvador · Guatemala
General information only — not tax, legal, immigration, investment or financial advice, and no client relationship. Figures are simplified, indicative and may be out of date. Always verify with the official authority and a licensed professional in the country concerned before acting. Partner links, if any, are marked and may earn us a fee.