Employer of Record in Belize | Culture

Culture and Holidays in Belize

Languages

English is the official language of Belize, however, informally, most people in Belize speak Belizean Creole (Kriol). Belize is a multilingual society that also includes speakers of Spanish and Mayan dialects.

Workplace norms and professional etiquette

Belizean business culture blends professionalism with warmth. Colleagues are respectful but friendly and may build rapport through small talk concerning light topics such as the weather, travel, food, and sports.

Workplace hierarchy and authority

Hierarchical structures are respected; authority figures are acknowledged and decision-making often flows from senior leaders downward. Titles such as Mr., Mrs., and Dr. are used initially until the addressed person offers their first name. In Belize, consensus and input from various stakeholders are valued, especially in negotiations, so decision processes may take time.

Email and phone etiquette

The standard use for email in Belize is for formal communication regarding such topics as contracts, finance, and documentation. Email is also used for forming new external partnerships, while WhatsApp is typically used once partners gain rapport or for quick questions, scheduling, and follow-ups. WhatsApp is also in standard use for day-to-day communication amongst internal teams across all managerial levels. (Tools like Slack or Teams may be used by international tech firms.) Professional phone or video calls in Belize are customarily scheduled in advance.

Meeting etiquette and punctuality

In Belize, punctuality is valued, and arriving slightly early for meetings shows respect. However, the atmosphere is more relaxed than in other countries. Small talk is common before diving into business discussions, and meetings are likely to start late. Provide agendas and other meeting materials ahead of time when possible, and build in flexibility for more free-ranging discussions.

Professional dress code

In Belize, professionals typically wear business casual adapted for a tropical climate, such as collared shirts and slacks for men and blouses and dress pants or skirts for women. In formal or government contexts, lightweight suits or jackets are appropriate, but ties are not common.

National holidays

The national government of Belize recognizes numerous holidays, and you may be required to give employees leave on these days or pay overtime rates if leave cannot be provided.

• Jan. 1: New Year’s Day
• Jan. 15: George Prince Day
• Mar. 9: National Heroes and Benefactors Day
• Good Friday
• Holy Saturday
• Easter Monday
• May 1: Labour Day
• Aug. 1: Emancipation Day
• Sep. 10: St. George’s Caye Day
• Sep. 21: Independence Day
• Oct. 12: Indigenous People’s Resistance Day
• Nov. 19: Garifuna Settlement Day
• Dec. 25: Christmas Day
• Dec. 26: Boxing Day