Belize Eases Some Local COVID-19 Restrictions While Entry Rules Remain

The beautiful destination of Belize in Central America is known for its lush tropical landscapes. It is also renowned for the famous Great Blue Hole and the world’s second-largest barrier reef after Australia’s. These and other attractions make the country a popular destination for nature lovers. Meanwhile, Belize is starting to ease back on its internal COVID-19 restrictions, while keeping entry requirements the same.

Belize eases internal COVID-19 restrictions

Selected as one of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel destinations, Belize is a popular destination for those who love idyllic beaches, rainforests and reef diving.

Those planning on visiting the Central American country this year will find that on-the-ground COVID-19 restrictions are being eased. However, a number of entry requirements for international travelers will remain in place.

What changes can be expected?

As of April 1, it will not be necessary to wear face masks in both indoor and outdoor public venues. On top of this, restaurants, bars, clubs and casinos can return to full capacity, while curfews have also been dropped.

Kevin Bernard, the Minister of Health and Wellness for Belize, gave a statement about the changes. “Thanks to the steady decrease in COVID-19 cases at both the district and national levels, there is no longer a threat of community spread due to the virus,” he said.

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention downgrades Belize

Meanwhile, on April 4, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) downgraded its advisory for Belize to Level 4 status. This indicates high levels of COVID-19 cases, but despite this, the CDC is removing its advisory against travel to Belize. However, the CDC does advise travelers to ensure they are fully vaccinated before traveling to the Central American country.

Entry requirements for travelers

While travel to Belize has become easier, there are still a number of actions to take before leaving for your vacation. All travelers must complete the Customs and Immigration form prior to travel and must purchase Belize Travel Health Insurance.

The health insurance policy can be obtained online at a cost of US$18 for coverage of up to 21 days. The policy covers medical treatment, along with the cost of accommodation expenses. This is to help the traveler to quarantine should they receive a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.

On the other hand, unvaccinated air travelers, and those who cannot provide proof of vaccinations are required to provide proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than three days prior to arrival. Alternatively, they can give proof of a negative rapid antigen test, taken no more than two days before arrival in Belize.

Another option for unvaccinated travelers is to opt for a test on arrival in Belize at a cost of US$50. Meanwhile, the traveler must pay for the test in cash, as credit cards are not accepted.

In the case of those arriving by land and sea borders, Belize will not accept pre-arrival test results. When it comes to crossing the border by land or seaport, unvaccinated travelers must undergo mandatory COVID-19 testing on arrival. This testing requirement also applies to unvaccinated children over the age of five.