Belize is a country located on the northeastern coast of Central America bordering Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the south.
Its mainland is about 290 km (180 mi) long and 110 km (68 mi) wide.
The population is about 420,000 people.
Belize became a British colony in 1840, known as British Honduras, and a Crown colony in 1862. Independence was achieved from the United Kingdom on 21 September 1981. It's a Commonwealth country, with Queen Elizabeth II as its monarch and head of state, represented by a Governor General.
Citizens of the USA, Canada, UK, EU countries, and most Commonwealth & South American countries can stay on vacation in Belize for one month on a tourist visa which is automatically given on arrival.
Visitors wanting to stay longer than one month can apply for an extension of 6 months.
Individuals who are retired from work, financially independent and a person of good character can apply for Belize permanent residence.
Individuals who have permanent residency and have resided in Belize for 5 years or more are eligible to apply for citizenship by naturalization.
There are no restrictions on foreign buyers acquiring real estate in Belize. The Government of Belize welcomes investment from overseas investors.
Search for your perfect property.
Make an offer to purchase the property with the Real Estate Agent.
Engage a lawyer to perform a title search and land survey.
After signing the Agreement for Sale, pay a 10% deposit.
On settlement pay all taxes and fees.
Pay the balance of the purchase amount.
Please seek the advice of a local lawyer. Legal fees depend on the complexity of the transaction and the amount of work performed.
Transfer tax is 8% of value or amount of gross consideration.
Property taxes on homes and other developed land are very low.
Property taxes are between 1% and 1.5% of the value of the undeveloped land. In Belize, property taxes are based on land value rather than the developed value of the property, to encourage development.
In Belize, there are no capital gains and no estate or inheritance taxes.
Income tax is charged at a flat rate of 25%. Residents of Belize are exempt from income tax on the first $14,500 of their annual income. Pension income is also exempt.
Belize permits dual citizenship and encourages persons living abroad to have dual citizenship.