Education in Belize for US citizenship

In order to study at any of the universities in Belize, international students must obtain a Belizean student visa depending on their country of origin.

If visa-free travel to Belize is available to you, then you do not need a study visa.

To get a Belize student visa, you must first be accepted to an educational institution in Belize.

After that, the student must apply to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for permission to obtain a student visa.

A student visa is granted for the period of study in Belize.

What are the requirements for a student visa to Belize?

• A letter from the educational institution. The letter from the institution of study should indicate the duration of the study, the program, and details of the institution.
• A letter of financial support from a sponsor or parent. A letter of financial support must be present from either a parent or sponsor, the letter must be signed by a Justice of the Peace along with a $1.50 Belize postage stamp.
• Two (2) photographs
• Birth certificate of the applicant. A birth certificate is required. If the birth certificate is not in English, it must be translated by the appropriate authority and signed.
• Power of attorney (from parents or guardians). A power of attorney must be provided if the Sponsor is applying on behalf of a parent or guardian. The authorization must state that the parent authorizes the sponsor to apply for a student permit that does not exceed one year or semester. The parents listed on the student's birth certificate must sign a power of attorney or the legal guardian(s) listed on the legal documents.
• A photocopy of the biodata page of the applicant's passport
• Proof of Belizean identity or sponsor status

If the student is sponsored, the sponsor must provide proof of Belizean identity or legal immigration status.

The following documents are required to prove your identity in Belize:

• Belize passport
• Certificate of citizenship of Belize
• Voter ID card
• Social insurance card

To verify immigration status (non-Belizean citizens):

• Permanent residence
• Temporary employment permit.
• Parent's or sponsor's latest bank statement and/or sponsor's or parent's employment letter

If the student is sponsored, the sponsor must provide a recent bank statement to demonstrate financial stability.

• Completed visa application form
• One year of open return ticket if the applicant is non-regional

If you are studying at a higher education institution and live in another regional country, you must provide a 1-year return ticket.

Who can apply for a student visa?

You can apply for a student visa if you are enrolled in:

• Primary school
• Secondary educational institution
• Higher institution.

You can learn more about education in Belize here: https://www.moecst.gov.bz/