thanks for the info, how do I go about getting a work permit? Also, what is the average time and cost to get one?

There are set rules for getting a work permit, but they are not always followed, EVERYONE has a bit of a different experience. We just went to The Director after being in the country just a very short time and had our work permits in a few days, it took about 3 weeks for our second permit we got our residency without being in the country 12 months, I was only here 3 months of the year and I got my husbands for him while he was out of the country, again because I went and spoke to the director. So my advice would be not to take any advice, make a trip to Belmopan and speak to the Director of Immigration. I have heard so many different accounts of what people went through its staggering.

Debbie,

Good information...did you make an appointment to see him or did you just drive down there. How much money does it cost to become a resident. How long were you in country before you got your work permit?

Thank you!
MARK

Many good points have already been covered, I however am under the impression that from the replies I have read that paradise is located on the islands, I am at present living in Bonnie Scotland and my first trip to Belize was in 1975 ,where I travelled throughout the country and spent many a night under the rainforest canopy and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
I have been on many return journeys since and continue to explore and find new and exciting surprises around the each corner, I have been to many cayes to name but a few such as Lime Caye, Hunters Caye, Caye Caulker, San Pedro, Caye Chapel and St Georges Caye and others, I enjoyed each and everyone as they all have different character.
I was once mugged in broad daylight on Mahogany St, but put this down to my own stupidity for flashing the bling when it should have been out of sight, the police were quick to respond and dealt with the matter in a swift and professional manner ,I picked myself up dusted myself down responded with a few choice words and gestures and got on with life, I was satisfied with the outcome.
My next trip to Belize will be in November for a month and with the outlook of coming at some point in the near future for a year with the potential to put the feet up and semi retire, I,ll still keep my home in Scotland though just incase. So if anyone has a place for rent around this time for self ,wife and son or has a suggestion give me the heads up. I wish you all well on your adventures.

HHM