In January 1995, the Government of Belize introduced a new Belize Economic Citizenship Investment Programme (BECIP).
It is designed to attract foreign investment and entrepreneurial skills to the country. Many countries, both large and small, operate similar programs, including the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia and Ireland.

To qualify for citizenship under this Programme, applications are made through Licensed Immigration Consultants, and presented to the Director of the BECIP unit, within the Ministry of Finance in Belmopan, Belize.

Registration fees for applicants (amended February 1996) are as follows:

US$ 25,000 per family, including head of household, spouse and dependents under the age of 18 years.

US$ 15,000 for each child over the age of 18 years.

In addition to the registration fee(s), applicants approved for citizenship are required, as a minimum investment in Belize, to invest:

US$ 25,000 to be paid into the "Belize Economic Citizenship Investment Fund." (Sums paid into this Investment Fund by successful applicants are non-refundable and attract no interest.) This fund is used to finance reconstruction and development programs around the country, and represents the applicant's commitment to Belize.

Therefore, the total cost/investment for an entire family is US$ 50,000; there are no further obligations or investments required. Successful applicants receive passports and enjoy full citizenship status. It is not necessary to live in Belize, although these new citizens are welcome to do so at any time. Non-resident citizens are not subject to any Belizean taxes, and do not have voting rights.

A list of current Licensed Immigration Consultants in good standing, may be obtained from the BECIP Unit by contacting:

Director, BECIP Unit
Ministry of Finance
Belmopan, Belize
Tel: 501-8-23770
Fax: 501-8-20372

Further information can also be obtained from any Belizean embassy or consulate abroad.

Editor's Note: In 2002, this programme was suspended. Stay tuned to the Report, for future developments.