As of 2025, Belize does not offer a traditional citizenship by investment program like some other Caribbean nations. This means that foreign nationals cannot directly obtain Belizean citizenship through a financial investment as they can in countries such as St. Kitts and Nevis or Antigua and Barbuda. However, there are alternative pathways for residency that may eventually lead to citizenship.

Types of Residency Permits Available

While Belize lacks a formal citizenship by investment scheme, it provides several types of residence permits that can be beneficial for investors:

• Long-Term Residence Permit: This permit is available for individuals planning to stay in Belize for more than six months. Eligible applicants include nationals from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, or the European Union who have a minimum yearly income of USD 100,000 (if applying with dependents) or USD 75,000 (if applying alone).
• Temporary Residence Permit: Issued primarily for employment purposes, this permit allows individuals to reside in Belize temporarily while working.
• Dependent Residence Permit: This type of permit is designed for dependents of individuals holding valid residence permits.

These permits allow foreign nationals to live and work in Belize but do not confer immediate citizenship.

Investment Options Leading to Residency

For those interested in moving to Belize as investors, the most straightforward option is to apply for a temporary residence permit based on investment:

• To qualify for this permit, an individual must demonstrate proof of having at least 500,000 Belize dollars (approximately USD 250,000) available for investment in local businesses or real estate.
• The temporary residence permit is valid for one year and can be renewed.
• Although this pathway does not provide direct access to citizenship, it allows investors to establish themselves in the country and potentially pursue permanent residency later on.

Pathway to Citizenship

Once an individual has held a temporary residence permit and established their presence in Belize through business activities or other means, they may pursue permanent residency. After maintaining permanent residency status for a certain period (typically five years), individuals may then apply for naturalization as citizens of Belize.

It is essential to note that while there are no direct routes to obtaining citizenship through financial investment alone, engaging with local legal experts can help navigate the process effectively.

Conclusion

In summary, while there is no dedicated citizenship by investment program in Belize as of 2025, foreign nationals can explore various residency options that may eventually lead to citizenship through naturalization after fulfilling specific requirements. Engaging with local legal professionals can provide valuable guidance throughout this process.