Belizeans get longer Schengen visas, but visa-free Europe still distant

Belize is no closer to winning visa-free access to Europe, the country's Foreign Affairs Minister Francis Fonseca has said, blaming political pressures and rising anti-immigration sentiment across the continent. A full Schengen visa waiver does not appear likely any time soon, he indicated. The Schengen area is the group of European countries that share a common short-stay visa policy.

Key facts

• Belizeans applying for a Schengen visa in Mexico and Guatemala now receive visas valid for three to five years.
• Previously, Belizeans were issued a single-entry Schengen visa.
• The change is described by Fonseca as a step achieved last year.
• A full visa waiver for Belize is not expected soon.
• Belize's government says it continues to push for easier travel to Europe.

What has changed for Belizean travellers?

Fonseca described a shift in how Schengen visas are issued to Belizeans. He said that when Belizeans travel to Mexico or Guatemala and apply for a Schengen visa there, they are now given a visa valid for three to five years rather than the single-entry visa issued in the past.

He framed the change as progress, but stressed that it does not amount to the visa-free access Belize has been seeking for years.

Why is a visa waiver not happening?

Fonseca said the waiver request is caught up in European politics, pointing to the rise of right-wing parties on the continent that take a firm anti-immigration position and oppose such arrangements. Asked about the outlook, he said he did not expect the full waiver "to come anytime soon."

Where do Belizeans apply?

The longer-validity Schengen visas described by Fonseca are issued to Belizeans who apply in Mexico and Guatemala. The source does not set out application procedures, fees or processing times.

What this means for travellers

Belizeans planning trips to Europe still need a Schengen visa rather than visa-free entry. Those applying through Mexico or Guatemala can now be issued visas valid for three to five years instead of a single entry. A change to visa-free travel is not expected soon, so travellers should plan on applying for a visa before booking.

No timetable has been given for any further decision on Belize's waiver bid. Belize's government says it will keep pursuing easier travel opportunities for its citizens.