The Belizean government has announced continued initiatives to simplify procedures for residents applying for Schengen visas. The government is aggressively seeking the support of EU member states and is dedicated to pursuing a visa-free travel deal with the EU.

Eamon Courtenay, Belize’s minister of foreign affairs, is quoted by BBN as saying that Belize wants to persuade Schengen nations to add Belize to the list of countries not requiring visas to enter the bloc.

According to Minister Courtenay, Belize’s case is strong and has already received EU recognition. He said, “The European Union has acknowledged that our meticulous preparations and thorough documentation to the European Union have strengthened our position.”

In reaction to the complicated visa application procedures now in place, Belize is pleading for inclusion on the list of nations whose residents are free from requiring visas to enter the Schengen Area. Currently, Belizean nationals must travel to Mexico to apply for a Schengen visa, which makes travel preparations more difficult.

The prerequisites for obtaining a Schengen visa for Belizeans include submitting a fully filled out visa application form, recent photos taken within the last three months, and a valid passport that isn’t more than ten years old and has at least three months left on it after the exit date from the Schengen Area.

Additionally, applicants from Belize must show proof of a round-trip reservation or itinerary that includes precise entrance and exit dates as well as flight information for the Schengen Area. Other requirements include reserving lodging within the Schengen Area, purchasing travel insurance, proving they have the money to cover their expenses, and confirming they have paid the visa price.

The amount of supplementary paperwork that Belizean applicants must provide may vary depending on their employment position. In addition to the aforementioned documents, employed individuals must also produce their work contract, most recent bank statements, employer-approved leave, and income tax returns.

When applying for a Schengen visa, students must provide proof of enrollment and a letter from their school stating that they have no objections.