Sorry to induce flashbacks, but yes, there are still countries switching up their entry requirements.
The good news it's regarding 2025 and not 2020. My how time flies…
Following the U.K. and Thailand's lead, Belize is up next requiring new travel authorization from Americans beginning at an unspecified date in 2025.
As winter is now upon us, you'll surely want to swap your winter blues for the blue of Belize.
Vivid blue waters, vibrant baby blue architecture, and of course, one of the world's most stunning natural wonders, the Blue Hole.
Travelers are okay skipping the new digital platform for now, but the Belizean Government is encouraging tourists to opt for online over paper forms to iron out any kinks before going 100% digital next year.
Going Paperless
Ever pulled the “I didn't get my bill” trick after your credit card statements went paperless? Unfortunately, you won't be able to do anything of the sort once Belize goes all in on their new digital platform.
As of December 1, 2024, travelers can still fill out the required forms the old-fashioned way or choose to work through any hiccups online.
Right now, the online version is only available at Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City, the most popular arrival point in the country.
And while we're on the subject of Belize City, let's be honest. It's the textbook definition of a gateway, not a getaway.
Once you're here, chances are you'll set off to one of the Cayes boasting pristine waters, delightful stays, and welcoming locals ready to pamper you.
Belize City is very run down. The government knows this and doesn't want to pile on to a negative first impression of their beloved home.
Rather than deal with an outdated system, Belize wants to streamline tourists' entry process, ultimately being able to check off all the bureaucratic boxes before even departing on your bucket-list vacation.
Provide Travel Authorization Info Before Departing
The silver lining of the new system is the fact that travelers no longer have to spend any extra time filling out forms at the airport.
While you can still choose ‘paper or plastic' at your local supermarket, soon travelers to Belize will be required to pass on paper.
Why anyone would want to continue killing trees at this point when there's an online option is anyone's guess, but the government does encourage feedback to correct any frustrating mishaps.
The first rendition of the digital forms can be found here.
Whether I'm in need of a new Macbook or Belize launched the site too early is a question I can't answer, but what I can tell you is 3 different browsers wouldn't allow me access the form since their system couldn't determine I'm human.
Or maybe the Singularity has already occurred, and I'm actually a robot.
Either way, there do seem to be some wrinkles that need to be smoothed out.
Nevertheless, the digital system is expected to be fully operational within the next few months as the initial plan is a 3-month trial phase before expanding to every Belizean port of entry.
Why Visit Belize? Explore Ruins, Natural Wonders & Postcard Beaches
If you've never been to Belize, it's truly a postcard-perfect place once you reach the stunning coasts and numerous islands.
One of the more popular excursions, of course, is to bear witness to a site we've all seen – the famous Blue Hole.
Although, it comes with a mixed bag of reviews ranging from “that's it?!” to “that's the coolest thing I've ever seen!”, what isn't arguable is it costs a pretty penny.
Expect to fork over at least $200 per person. If you don't want to splurge on a flyover tour, Belize Pro Dive Center offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to snorkel these otherworldly waters for $235.
A cheaper option for incredible wonders are Belize's under-hyped Mayan ruins, such as:
- Altun Ha
- Lamunai
- Xunantunich
- Caracol
For relaxing beach resorts, many vacationers opt for San Pedro and Caye Caulker, both easy connections from Belize City and much safer, idyllic, and aesthetically pleasing with vibrant buildings and turquoise water.
With proper forms complete, U.S. tourists can stay in Belize up to 30 days visa-free.
Ready For Your Trip? Check The Latest Entry Requirements For Your Destination Here
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Dee
Friday 6th of December 2024
You cannot stay in Belize for “30 days visa free”. Example…..If you arrive on the 1st you have to renew your passport before the 1st of the next month. It doesn’t matter that there might not be 30 days between the days. Many people have to pay the extra money because they thought they had 30 days.
Travis
Friday 6th of December 2024
Your ads cover up most of the content in this post.
David
Friday 6th of December 2024
Whereas it's true that there are parts of Belize City that leave a lot to be desired in terms of aesthetic appeal, Belize's old capital is not all bad and still holds some interesting places to visit, e.g. the Museum of Belize, and historical cathedrals and churches. It's my personal opinion that rather than saying "Belize City is very rundown" the writer should have resisted the temptation to paint the old capital with one swipe of the brush. Consider saying instead: "Some parts of Belize City are rundown...." It is very much noteworthy that there are parts of many cities in other countries to which visitors converge - including several in the US - that possess areas that are unsafe to traverse, but may have worthwhile sites to visit.
Monique
Friday 6th of December 2024
@David, Thanks for saying this.
Bridget
Friday 6th of December 2024
@David, Thanks David for sharing. I agree yes most city in/ out countries tend to have less desirable spots. I too have visited the museum and restaurants in the city and you would not think it’s the city.
Idalia
Tuesday 3rd of December 2024
I love Belize (Caye Caulker) so much that I want to move there.
John
Wednesday 4th of December 2024
@Idalia, Did you meet Richardo on the tourist ship "sexy chicken" ?