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Qualified Retirement Program (QRP)
The QRP is Belize's flagship expat residency program, managed by the Belize Tourism Board. It offers tax-free living for retirees and semi-retirees aged 40+ with stable foreign income, including generous duty-free import privileges.
- Eligibility: must be 40 years or older with a monthly income of at least $2,000 USD from a source outside Belize — pensions, annuities, Social Security, and investment income all qualify
- Dependents: spouse and children under 18 can be included on the same application
- Tax benefits: permanent exemption from all Belize income taxes, capital gains taxes, estate taxes, and import duties on household effects
- Duty-free imports: during the first year, import household goods (unlimited value), one vehicle (model year within 5 years), and a boat/light aircraft
- Physical presence: minimum 30 consecutive days per year in Belize required to maintain QRP status
- Banking: must deposit $2,000/month into a Belizean bank, credit union, or licensed financial institution
- Application: submit to the Belize Tourism Board with police clearance, medical exam, proof of income, passport photos, and birth certificate
- Processing time: typically 2–3 months; QRP Resident Card issued upon approval, renewable annually
- Work restriction: QRP holders cannot work for pay in Belize — but can operate a business after 180 days if employing 5+ Belizean citizens