Currency in Belize: BZD Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in Belize with the Belize dollar.
What's in this Belize currency guide?
What currency is used in Belize?
The official currency of Belize (country code: BZ) is the Belize dollar, with symbol BZ$ and currency code BZD.
What is a good Belize dollar exchange rate?
The BestExchangeRates.com currency comparison table below helps you see the total cost of your currency transaction by showing the exchange rates offered by different providers. It also makes it easy to spot potential savings from market-leading FX services compared to bank rates.
To see a full list of rates, enter your transaction type, currencies and amount then click ‘GET RATES’:
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Good things to know about the Belize dollar
The Belize dollar (BZD) is the official currency of Belize. Here are a few things you might want to know about the BZD:
The BZD has been the official currency of Belize since the country gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1981.
The BZD is pegged to the U.S. dollar at a rate of BZD 2 per USD.
The Central Bank of Belize is responsible for issuing and regulating the BZD.
The BZD is not a widely used or traded currency outside of Belize, and it can be difficult to exchange it for other currencies in some parts of the world.
The BZD is divided into 100 cents. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 dollars. Banknotes are available in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, and 100 dollars.
The BZD is relatively stable, but it has lost value against the U.S. dollar due to inflation in Belize.
For more BZD information check out our selection of Belize dollar news and guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in Belize?
The domestic currency in Belize is the Belize dollar.
What is the Belize dollar currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Belize dollar is BZD — symbol is BZ$.
What does the Belize dollar look like?
Here is an example Belize dollar banknote:
Which countries use the Belize dollar?
It is the domestic currency in Belize.
Is the Belize dollar a closed currency?
No, the Belize dollar is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and BZD?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to BZD (US dollar to Belize dollar)*.
| USD | BZD |
|---|---|
| $ 497.90 | BZ$ 1,000 |
| $ 2,490 | BZ$ 5,000 |
| $ 9,958 | BZ$ 20,000 |
| $ 49,790 | BZ$ 100,000 |
More amounts
*Converted at the current USDBZD interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Travel money for Belize
Using Wise for Belize dollar travel money is a smart choice for savvy travelers. With its competitive exchange rates and low fees, Wise allows you to convert and manage multiple currencies effortlessly.
Be careful when using your own bank's Debit/Credit Card, as your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash on top of the standard Visa/Mastercard 2.5% from market mid-rate.
For card purchases, if you are offered a choice of currencies always select to Pay in Belize dollar otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want Belize dollar cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the BZD cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Belize: Travel Guide
Traveling to Belize requires careful financial planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate currency considerations and manage your money effectively during your visit.
The Belize Dollar (BZD) has been pegged to the US dollar for several decades now. The official rate is 2BZD = 1USD. US dollars are widely accepted throughout the country but don't take large bills as it could be hard to get change back in USD. If you do have BZD and are travelling to bordering countries, its worth noting that BZD is often accepted in the towns immediately across the borders at Melchor de Mencos in Guatemala and Chetumal in Mexico. Be sure to exchange any excess BZDs prior to leaving the country as it will be difficult to change otherwise.
Top Things to do in Belize
Visit ancient Maya ruins: Belize is home to a number of ancient Maya ruins, including Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lamanai. These sites offer a glimpse into the lives of the Maya people and are a must-see for history buffs.
Go snorkeling or scuba diving: Belize is home to the second largest coral reef in the world, making it a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The waters around Belize are home to a variety of colorful fish, coral, and other marine life.
Take a boat tour of the Belize Barrier Reef: The Belize Barrier Reef is home to a variety of marine life and is a popular spot for boat tours. On a tour, you can see dolphins, manatees, and a variety of tropical fish.
Visit the Belize Zoo: The Belize Zoo is home to over 150 species of animals, many of which are native to Belize. It's a great place to learn about the country's diverse wildlife.
Explore the capital city, Belmopan: Belmopan is the capital city of Belize and is a great place to learn about the country's history and culture. The city is home to a number of museums and cultural centers, including the Belize Museum and the Belize Institute of Archaeology.
Go cave tubing: Belize is home to a number of underground caves, and cave tubing is a popular activity in the country. On a cave tubing tour, you'll float through the caves on an inner tube, taking in the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites as you go.
Take a trip to the Cayo District: The Cayo District is home to a number of natural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, and forests. It's a great place to go hiking, birdwatching, or just relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary: The Community Baboon Sanctuary is a protected area in Belize where you can see howler monkeys in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is run by the local community and is a great way to support conservation efforts in Belize.
Everyday Costs in in Belize
How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in Belize? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide for Belize (ISO Code: BZ)
When planning a one-week mid-range stay in Belize, travelers should budget approximately BZD 2,800 to BZD 4,200 (about USD 1,400 to USD 2,100). This estimate covers various expenses, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. Here’s a breakdown of typical daily expenses in Belizean Dollars (BZD):
- 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: BZD 30
- ☕ Coffee: BZD 7
- 🚌 Public transport fare: BZD 2
- 📶 Prepaid SIM card: BZD 50
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: BZD 100
Overall, Belize can be considered an average destination for travelers, as prices are generally on par with mid-range options in countries like the United States. If you were to compare Belize to the UK, for instance, you'd find the cost of dining and local experiences in Belize significantly less expensive, allowing for a more budget-friendly adventure without compromising on enjoyment.
Expats in Belize
For expats considering a move to Belize, typical monthly living costs can range between BZD 2,500 to BZD 4,500, depending on lifestyle and location. This estimate includes rent for modest accommodation, utilities, groceries, and transportation. When it comes to banking and card usage, it's advisable to rely primarily on local banks and ATMs for cash withdrawals to avoid hefty foreign transaction fees. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but having cash on hand for local markets is indispensable.
When it comes to exchanging money, local currency exchanges can offer straightforward options, but using online transfer services like Wise or OFX may provide better rates and lower fees, especially for larger sums. It’s wise to evaluate the current exchange rates and consider which method is most cost-effective for your needs. Overall, staying informed about local financial practices will help ensure a smooth transition into life in Belize.
USD/BZD Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/BZD change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Send Money to Belize - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to Belize you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to Belize
When sending money to Belize it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Belize dollar amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted BZD amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in Belize.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Belize dollar deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in Belize
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Belize dollar currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the BZD exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Belize dollar bank account: A local BZD bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in Belize. It may also be more convenient to use a local BZD bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in Belize. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in Belize. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in Belize, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in Belize.
There are money things to consider when sending money to do business in Belize:
The official currency of Belize is the Belize dollar (BZD). You should be aware of the current exchange rate when doing business in Belize, as this can affect the cost of goods and services.
Belize has a relatively small economy, and it is heavily dependent on exports of agricultural products and natural resources. This can impact the stability of the currency and the country's economic conditions.
Belize is considered a "tax haven," meaning that it has a lower tax rate than many other countries. This can make it an attractive destination for businesses looking to reduce their tax burden.
Belize has a well-developed financial sector, with a number of banks and other financial institutions offering a range of business-related services, such as loans, investment products, and trade financing.
It is important to understand the legal and regulatory environment in Belize when doing business there. This includes familiarizing yourself with the country's business laws, tax regulations, and intellectual property protections.
Are there property purchase restrictions for foreigners in Belize?
There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Belize.
What are Belize property taxes?
Property taxes are rarely more than $100 to $200 a year.
What are Belize retirement benefits?
Belize offers a liberal retirement programme with a variety of benefits, including tax breaks and special residency status.
How is the infrastructure in Belize?
The Central American country is seeing increased tourism and therefore development but infrastructure has yet to catch up. Cars are still rare on the island thanks to the barely-paved roads. Most people get around in golf carts.