Many Belizeans living abroad look forward to the day they can return home—whether to retire, invest, or give back to their communities. The Government of Belize warmly welcomes returning Belizeans and their families and is committed to facilitating their re-entry through proactive policies and accessible information.

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To make this transition smoother, the Government has refined the repatriation process and introduced programs such as the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program, established under the Qualified Retired Persons Act. This legislation is designed to support Belizeans and eligible foreign nationals seeking to make Belize their permanent home during retirement.

 

Eligibility & Key Benefits Under the QRP Program:

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1. Age Requirement:
   – Applicants must be 45 years or older
   – Eligible dependents include a spouse and children under 18, or under 23 if enrolled full-time in a university

2. Proof of Income:
   – Must demonstrate a monthly income of at least USD $2,000 from a pension, annuity, or other consistent source

3. Citizenship:
   – Open to dual citizenship holders (e.g., U.S./Belizean)

4. Background Check:
   – Must successfully pass a standard background check

5. Residency Intent:
   – Must intend to make Belize their new permanent home

6. Duty-Free Importation:
   – May import personal effects and one approved means of transportation, exempt from all import duties and taxes

7. Tax Exemption:
   – Exempt from paying all taxes and duties on income generated from sources outside Belize, whether from employment or investments
   – Additional exemptions may apply under the Fiscal Incentives Act

 

This program was created to anticipate and support the needs of returning residents. While efforts continue to streamline administrative processes, please be aware that penalties for misuse or abuse of the law remain in effect.

 

For more details, you may refer to the following resources:

 

• DRIP Chart 

• DRIP Guidelines​

• DRIP Application Form