Ahhh, retirement! After years of being the dedicated laborer we finally reach the gates of paradise to do what we want, when we want.
Here lies the problem – what should we do?
I mean there’s the typical option of being doting grandparents to Jack III and sisters, Jill and Jane. But isn’t retirement supposed to be about us? Enjoying endless hours of relaxation and having the time of our lives in our golden years?
If you feel like I do, then retirement in Belize is for you! It’s a tropical jewel with lots of culture and scenery. From the golden sandy beaches lining its coast, and Mayan ruins and mountains decorating the lush rainforests to quaint towns and villages filled with friendly people ready to welcome you as their own.
Why Retire in Belize?
Belize’s low cost of living is enough to make it one of the world’s greatest retirement havens. But the country has gone a step further. It also offers incentives to expatriates who want to retire in Belize.
The plan is called the Retirement Persons Incentive Program. It is just one of the ways that Belize lets you keep more of your assets. Better still, you don’t actually have to be retired or even of retirement age. To take advantage of the incentives you must simply be aged 45 or older, have a monthly income of at least $2,000, and comply with several other minor requirements. And, almost incredibly, you only need to live in Belize for only one month a year!
So why retire in Belize? Well, local law allows a Qualified Retired Person tax breaks, Belize is an English-speaking country with sub-tropical climate all year round and you have easy access to land for development and construction of a retirement home. Belize is also in close proximity to the U.S. and Mexico and has a strong, stable currency with an abundance of Natural Resources.
If you have a bit of adventure in you and a desire to kick-back and take life slowly, this could be the retirement destination of your dreams!
How to qualify for the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Incentive Program
To qualify for the program, you must be 45 years or older. You are allowed to include your spouse and any dependents under the age of 18 in the program (or children under the age of 23 if they are in college). See our article “How do I apply for the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Incentive Program” to get a thorough walkthrough of applying for this QRP program. Although the process might seem straightforward, it is recommended to get legal advice to make the process of becoming part of the qualified retirement program hassle-free.
Where are The Best Retirement Communities in Belize?
Belize’s laidback lifestyle make is one of the best places to retire. The culture here is so friendly and welcoming; you’ll feel like you’ve lived here all your life. And if the people haven’t won you over, our natural beauty definitely will! Everywhere in Belize has its own unique charm offering beautiful views. The best retirement communities here have exactly what you’re looking for.
Starting from the north, we have Consejo Shores in the Corozal Bay. This is a private waterfront community with residential and commercial lots for sale. The community features a golf course, parks, library and community center. If this community sounds like the place for you but you’d prefer a move-in ready home, then visit Playa del Consejo Condominiums. They are located within Consejo Shores and have beautiful beachfront condos for sale.
Out in the west is the Cayo District, Belize’s capital. Cayo has a booming industrial sector but is mainly lush greenery with fertile soils and a beautiful backdrop of the Mayan Mountains. If you’re interested in purchasing a home in this peaceful part of the country check out some of the most popular real estate companies in Belize:
In the south are Hopkins and Placencia. Both are parallel to the glistening Caribbean Sea. Hopkins is a quaint little village known for its fishing and large concentration of Garifuna people. But with recent migration of expats and development of resorts it’s progressing in infrastructure while still maintaining its pleasant appeal. Similarly and not too far away, is Placencia. Known for its beautiful golden beach and excellent fishing drops, the Placencia Village is a bit larger in size and real estate offerings. Despite its larger size, Placencia still maintains its village charm and captivates visitors with its scenic views. If you need a place to stay while house hunting, Latitude Adjustment offers long-term rentals of 5 tropically themed cabanas especially to accommodate those searching for their own piece of paradise.
Belize is a beautiful country filled with natural wonders. It is also home to some of the best retirement communities in the world making it the perfect place for you to retire. We barely brushed the tip of the coconut tree with great places to retire in Belize. Know of any? Let us know in the comments below!
