03 Mar 2021 | 10:11 AM UTC
Belize: Officials extend nationwide curfew and other COVID-19-related measures through early April /update 19
Belize extends COVID-19-related nightly 2200-050 curfew and other restrictions from March 4 through early April.
Event
Authorities in Belize have extended the existing domestic and amended international travel restrictions from March 4 through early April for a period of at least 30 days. The curfew will continue to be enforced 2200-0500, except on March 3 when it will be enforced 2000-0500 due to the municipal elections. The curfew for minors remains nightly 1800-0500. Members of the security forces, as well as immigration and customs workers, healthcare workers, and those with authorization from the national government, are exempt from the curfew.
While most internal measures remain unchanged, officials have amended Belize's international travel protocols, exempting immunized travelers from COVID-19 pretesting. The following measures will remain in place through at least the start of April:
International Travel
Air travel is continuing, and the maritime borders have reopened at the ports San Pedro, Belize City, Placencia, and Punta Gorda; however, the country's land ports of entry remain closed to most nonresident foreign nationals. All arriving residents and nonresidents must download the Belize Health mobile application and fill in their details before travel. As of March 3, the following additional requirements have been amended or extended:
Upon entry, travelers must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR); the test must be taken within 96 hours before travel to Belize, or any other approved test taken within 48 hours prior to arrival. Travelers unable to produce such documentation will be denied entry.
Travelers who provide proof of having received two full doses of a COVID-19 vaccine do not have to provide the negative COVID-19 test result.
All travelers are required to download the Belize Health mobile application no more than 72 hours prior to arrival.
Travelers may be randomly selected for a second test upon arrival at the airport. Any traveler testing positive for COVID-19 must complete a 14-day quarantine at a government-approved quarantine hotel at the traveler's expense.
Visitors are required to stay at Gold Standard hotels but may use any means of transport to move around, including car rentals.
Visitors can move about freely; however, it is recommended that they remain within the Tourism Safe Corridor comprised of Gold Standard certified restaurants, tour operators, tourism sites and attractions, and gift shops.
Belize nationals and residents, as well as foreign diplomats accredited in Belize, work permit holders, and persons traveling on business, may enter through the land borders. However, travelers may only do so if they have received authorization in advance from the national government; moreover, they must enter quarantine upon arrival.
Domestic Measures
Most previously enforced restrictions will continue to run through March. Officials have not announced any changes to the following notable measures; these are subject to amendment at short notice:
All persons over the age of five must wear protective facemasks at all times, except while in private residences, exercising or engaged in any sports activity, driving alone or with only immediate family members, riding motorcycles or bicycles, or seated at restaurants.
Gatherings of over 10 people are prohibited; all persons must adhere to social distancing directives.
Businesses, restaurants, fitness centers, churches, and personal grooming services may operate at reduced capacity, subject to health protocols.
Outdoor exercise is permitted, provided social distancing measures are maintained; however, competitive sports events and recreational contact sports are prohibited.
All bars, rum shops, discotheques, nightclubs, casinos, gymnasiums, and gaming establishments are to remain closed.
Schools remain closed but may operate online.
Nonessential businesses must allow employees to work from home whenever possible.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Highly targeted localized measures could be enforced in villages and towns with higher disease activity.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.
Resources
World Health Organization (WHO)
Government COVID-19 Updates
Belize Tourism Board