It is possible to earn a substantial income in Belize through tourism, real estate, remote work, and small business ventures.
Many expats and investors explore how to make money in Belize by leveraging the country’s growing economy, tax-friendly policies, and lifestyle appeal.
This guide covers:
- Is Belize a good place to work?
- Can a foreigner start a business in Belize?
- What are the benefits of Belize company?
- Is Belize a good country for digital nomads?
My contact details are hello@adamfayed.com and WhatsApp +44-7393-450-837 if you have any questions.
The information in this article is for general guidance only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice, and is not a recommendation or solicitation to invest. Some facts may have changed since the time of writing.
Can a Foreigner Get a Job in Belize?
Yes, but only under strict conditions and with the proper work permit.
Foreign nationals must obtain a work permit either as a standard employee or a self-employed business owner before they can legally work in Belize.
Simply residing there doesn’t grant the right to work.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Standard Work Permits:
Your prospective Belizean employer must apply on your behalf and demonstrate that no local candidate was available for the job. This includes showing evidence that the job was advertised for several weeks. - Self-Employment Permits:
If you’re setting up your own business, this route is often easier. You must provide a business plan and show how your venture will benefit the Belizean economy especially through job creation. - Types of Permits and Documentation:
- Temporary Employment Permit: Valid for up to one year, renewable.
- Self-Employment Permit: For entrepreneurs seeking to operate businesses.
Requirements typically include: business plans, job offers, police clearance, evidence of recruiting locally, and other documentation.
- Process Complexity:
The application process is time-consuming and bureaucratic. The outcome is at the discretion of the Labor and Immigration departments, so approval is not guaranteed.
How to Make Money in Belize
The main income-generating opportunities in Belize are through small businesses in tourism and hospitality, real estate investments like rentals and resorts, and remote work or offshore companies benefiting from Belize’s favorable tax and business environment.
1. Entrepreneurship and Local Businesses
- Opening a small business in hospitality, such as boutique hotels, beachfront bars, or restaurants, targeting the growing expat and tourist market.
- Launching eco-tourism ventures, including guided tours, adventure activities, and sustainable travel experiences, which are in high demand.
- Offering niche services like wellness retreats, dive shops, or yacht charters catering to high-spending travelers.
2. Real Estate Investment
- Purchasing rental properties in high-demand locations like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, where short-term vacation rentals yield strong returns.
- Developing boutique resorts or holiday villas to capture the luxury travel segment.
- Land banking in emerging areas for future appreciation.
3. Remote Work & Offshore Services
- Leveraging Belize’s stable internet connectivity for remote work in industries like IT, consulting, finance, or creative services.
- Establishing offshore companies for international trade or online business, benefiting from Belize’s favorable tax laws.
What Are the Best Paying Jobs in Belize?
High-paying roles are often in specialized fields such as medicine, law, engineering, and tourism management.
Remote jobs for international companies also provide better income than local salaries, which are relatively modest.
While salaries in Belize are generally lower than in North America or Europe, certain careers and work arrangements stand out for offering higher earnings.
High-Paying Professions
- Medical Field
Doctors, surgeons, and specialized healthcare professionals are in demand due to limited local expertise and infrastructure. - Legal Sector
Attorneys with international or corporate law experience can command competitive rates. - Engineering and Construction Management
Large-scale development projects, especially in tourism and real estate, create demand for skilled engineers and project managers. - Tourism and Hospitality Management
High-level roles in luxury resorts, eco-lodges, and tour operations can offer significantly higher compensation than average service jobs.
Remote and International Work
- Remote Careers for Foreign Companies
Expats often earn more through remote roles in IT, finance, marketing, or consulting for overseas employers. These positions pay international rates while benefiting from Belize’s lower cost of living.
What Is the Best Business to Start in Belize?
Popular options include boutique hotels, eco-tourism operations, water sports services, and offshore consulting firms.
Agriculture, particularly organic farming, is also an emerging sector for investors.
The best business depends on capital, expertise, and long-term goals, but several sectors stand out:
Tourism and Hospitality
- Boutique Hotels and Resorts – Small-scale, high-end properties are popular among expats and investors due to the consistent flow of tourists, particularly in Ambergris Caye and Placencia.
- Eco-Tourism Operations – Belize is known for its rainforests, reefs, and natural reserves, creating opportunities for guided tours, adventure travel, and sustainable lodging.
Water and Marine Activities
- Water Sports and Diving Services – With the Belize Barrier Reef attracting divers worldwide, businesses offering snorkeling, diving, and boat tours thrive year-round.
Professional and Offshore Services
- Offshore Consulting Firms – Belize is a well-regarded jurisdiction for offshore company formation, creating demand for legal, accounting, and compliance advisory services.
Agriculture and Sustainable Farming
- Organic Farming and Agro-Business – High demand for organic produce and specialty exports like cacao, coffee, and tropical fruits makes agriculture an emerging sector.
What Are the Benefits of a Company in Belize?
Belize offers strong asset protection, low reporting requirements, and the ability to conduct business internationally through International Business Companies (IBCs).
These companies are tax-exempt on foreign-sourced income, allowing entrepreneurs to maximize profits.
For those looking to make money in Belize, forming an IBC can open doors to global trade, online businesses, and offshore consulting opportunities while benefiting from the country’s investor-friendly regulations.
What Are the Tax Advantages of Belize?
Belize provides favorable tax policies for IBCs, including no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and no tax on income earned outside the country.
This makes it an ideal location for international entrepreneurs.
Is Belize a Safe Place to Make Money?
While Belize is generally safe, investors should conduct proper due diligence, work with reputable local agents, and understand banking and property laws to minimize risks.
Risks particularly in urban centers shouldn’t be overlooked when making money in Belize.
Here’s what you should consider:
Crime and Public Safety Overview
- Belize recorded a homicide rate of approximately 21.7 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2024—higher than Guatemala and El Salvador but lower than parts of Mexico and Honduras.
- Encouragingly, major crimes fell 9% and murders dropped 29% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
Where Safety Matters Most
- Tourist and expat zones like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, Caye Caulker, and San Ignacio are viewed as safer, with most crimes occurring elsewhere.
- In contrast, Southside Belize City often sees gang-related violence and should be avoided.
- Crime isn’t rare: muggings, robberies, and petty thefts are reported, especially in urban areas.
Legal and Financial Security
- Belize’s legal system is based on English common law, offering robust protection for investors and property owners.
- However, fraud and scams especially targeting foreign property buyers, highlight the need for trusted local legal and real estate professionals.
FAQs
Can I Live in Belize for $1000 a Month?
Yes, it is possible to live in Belize for $1000 per month, especially in smaller towns or rural areas.
However, living in prime tourist destinations may require a higher budget due to increased housing and food costs.
Lower living expenses mean that income from small businesses, rental properties, or remote work can go further, making it more feasible to make money in Belize and maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Do I need residency to start a business in Belize?
No, you do not need to be a resident to start a business in Belize, but you must register the business properly and comply with local laws.
Can I open a bank account in Belize as a foreigner?
Yes, foreigners can open bank accounts, but requirements include proof of income, references, and valid identification.
Is Belize good for digital nomads?
Yes, Belize is increasingly popular for digital nomads due to English being the official language and good internet access in urban and tourist areas.
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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters with over 830million answer views on Quora, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.
