Belize Implements Visa Requirement for Haitian Nationals

Once upon a time, Haitian nationals did not need a visa to come to Belize.  After assessing the situation, however, the Government of Belize announced that Haitian nationals desirous of coming to the country would need to get a visa. The decision was made after realizing that the number of Haitians entering the country, had no record of leaving the country, nor were they found in Belize.  The visa, however, would be for those traveling to Belize under normal circumstances, while exceptions would be made for those seeking refuge or asylum in the country.  In mid-June, a group of minors from Haiti had arrived at the airport with an organization called, Beauty of Ashes.  These are young girls who were being subjected to multiple forms of abuse and were being rescued by the organization.  According to Director Immigration, Dr Gilroy Middleton Jr., the group of girls are still being processed, and refugee status is yet to be approved for them to remain permanently in Belize.

The group of thirteen minors landed in Belize on June 16, 2023.