I have read that I must have a return ticket purchased when I fly from the US to Belize. My husband and I were planning an extended visit to Belize as we make decisions about our retirement/future. We were going to wait to buy the tickets after we spent some time in Belize. Does anyone know anything about this topic? (I've asked several offices/individuals and have gotten conflicting answers.) So, I was wondering if any of the readers on this forum might have firsthand knowledge of this. Any help would be appreciated.

I have traveled back and forth many many times and I've never been asked to produce a return ticket. Technically I suppose you are required to have one. I've even flew back with a one way on at least one occasion and no problem.

However, I suggest that you consider buying one because a one way is somewhat more expensive in my experience. You can then cancel it and there will be a charge for changing your departure, I'm assuming you will eventually go back to the USA or where ever you are flying from even if you decide to retire here. Make the return flight 2 or 3 months out if you want.

Your circumstances may not make this idea but give it a thought.

Don't have an answer for that but I have never been checked for a return ticket in 14 years. Don't know how that would be monitored. You would need to re-apply for the visa monthly. Maybe its on the entry forms you fill out on the plane before you land.

Ragman is right, get a return for 6 mos out then adjust as needed.

Thanks for all the quick replies. I appreciate the help.

Hello Tammy....Our final flight into Belize was in June 2012 ....On United we bought one way tickets; My husband and I each arrived about 2 weeks apart....No one asked any questions. My experience is if you buy a round trip ticket and change the return date the fee can be huge $150 US for a change fee....Hope this helps....

I just got back from my 35th trip to San Pedro and have NEVER been asked to see my return ticket.

I just did a random search using BOS to BZE on United. $605 one way and $747 round trip. If you add $150 charge for change then your ticket back would cost you $292 with the change charge verse $605 (If prices do not go up). Now if you are certain you will not want to return within 18 months then buy a one way. If not the round trip is a bargain in comparison. I think it would be unusual not to want to return within 18 months regardless of which decision you come to on retiring in Belize. Reasons could be family, health, or a million other matters.

I said 18 months because I believe if you change you must use this change with 1 year. Each individual has different circumstances so just make up your mind and hope for the best. If you guess wrong it is not the end of the world.

Tammy,

No need to book a return ticket. If asked just reply you plan on taking a bus back to the states.

I have been asked to prove I lived in Belize, I wasn't resident yet so I had to produce my work permit when on a one way ticket from Miami on AA. It's the airline you have to deal with on that one, not immigration. If they don't want to take a risk on you there's no way you're getting on that flight as they have to pay your return if you get rejected by Belize immigration.