Kerry,
My husband and I own the Mgt Co at Caribe Island Resort. We employ 12-26 Belizeans at any given time. I do not have a work permit, and I am NOT allowed to work. I can handle banking and some matters like that, and of course, socializing, but I can't answer the office phone.
Just make sure you get the correct answers from the correct people. Don't assume that you are being told correctly just because you are talking to someone in the office. It doesn't hurt to get things in writing, but it also won't help you if you aren't doing things the right way.
Good luck.