Things can change at a moment’s notice, which is why Belize is making travel insurance mandatory for visitors. As of February 15, 2021, Belize is requiring travelers to purchase comprehensive Belize Travel Health Insurance for US$18 per person. Coverage lasts for 21 days at a time and can be purchased through a new app, your travel agent, tour operator, or on arrival to the airport and land borders. This travel insurance can go beyond protecting your hotel and quarantine stay, like medical expenses up to US$50,000, though the option to add coverage is currently only available to foreign visitors. While you hopefully never have to use the benefits of a travel insurance plan, they can come in handy when emergencies happen. Below, we’re addressing some of the most commonly asked questions about Belize’s new entry requirement: the Belize Travel Health Insurance.
What travel insurance is Belize offering?
Incoming foreign travelers must buy the Belize Travel Health Insurance for US$18, which is mandatory insurance that helps protect travelers against both medical and non-medical expenses if they test positive for COVID-19 during their stay in Belize.
When does my coverage need to start?
It is recommended that travelers purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance prior to their travel to Belize. Coverage
What is the coverage of the Belize Travel Health Insurance?
The plan covers up to US$50,000 in medical expenses related to the treatment of COVID-19 for a period of 21 days. This insurance plan will come online under the country’s public health regulations and provide cover for lodging expenses due to quarantine up to $2,000 USD (max $300/day USD). Travelers will also be covered for emergency assistance services such as air evacuation and emergency expenses related to pre-existing conditions. Furthermore, it covers trip cancellations and expenses incurred by COVID-19 positive travelers for extended stays.
How can I purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance?
Online in advance, on arrival at the Philip Goldson International Airport, on entry at Belize’s land borders, or in advance via tour agents and tour operators. The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is currently in the process of developing an app, which will be available on BTB’s website to allow visitors to purchase the plan online.
The app will be developed and hosted by the insurance company/companies, with a link shared on BTB’s website and portal.
I already have health insurance with foreign coverage. Will I still need to buy the Belize Travel Health Insurance?
Yes, the $18US insurance plan will need to be purchased regardless of whether you have another insurance plan or not.
Who is exempt from needing to purchase insurance for entry?
All foreign travelers must purchase the Belize Travel Health Insurance. Belizean nationals, permanent residents, travelers with QRP or Long Stay status, and flight crews are all exempt from this entry requirement.
What if I’m visiting Belize for more than 21 days?
Because the Belize Travel Health insurance covers 21 days at a time, regardless of your length of stay, then travelers will need to purchase a new plan if exceeding the 21 day period.
Will I still need to present a negative test on entry?
All travelers, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, entering Belize through the Philip Goldson International Airport from other countries, will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test. If no test is presented, a COVID-19 test will be administered at the airport for a fee of USD $50 per passenger. Children under the age of 5 years will not be required to present a negative test.