Employer of Record in Belize | Employee Benefits

Employee Benefits in Belize

Bonuses and additional payments

Unlike some other countries, Belize does not mandate a 13th-month payment or any other annual bonus for employees. However, performance-based pay is common in some sectors, especially in competitive industries like IT, finance, and tourism. Many employers in Belize also give Christmas bonuses or holiday gifts at the end of the year. As your employment partner in Belize, we can help you craft competitive compensation packages depending on your industry and the roles you’re hiring for.

Annual leave

Employees in Belize are entitled to annual leave, which is determined by their length of service. They are typically entitled to take this leave after completing one year of employment. Employees get 10 days of paid annual leave through their fifth year of employment. For the sixth year onwards, employees get 15 days of paid annual leave. In Belize, employees typically take their annual leave at one time but may split it into two leave periods. Employees must receive their leave pay no later than the day immediately before the start of the leave.

Sick leave

In Belize, employees are entitled to paid sick leave in addition to annual leave under the Belize Labour Act. Workers become eligible after working for the same company for 60 days in the same 12-month period. Eligible workers get 16 paid sick days per year, with an additional 30 days of paid sick leave for illnesses related to pregnancy. If the illness lasts beyond 16 days, employees become eligible to receive benefits directly from the Social Security Board.

Parental leave

Sections 177 and 180 of the Belize Labour Act outline conditions for the payment of maternity leave, which is required for employees who have been employed for 150 days or more during the preceding 12 months. Employers in Belize must offer at least 14 weeks of maternity leave, with at least two weeks before birth or expected confinement and seven weeks after birth. Maternity leave is subsidized by the Social Security Board, however, employers must pay the difference between the benefits paid out by the SSB and the employee's usual salary or wages.

Belizean law offers no provisions for paternity leave for fathers.

Additional benefits

Although Belizean citizens are guaranteed healthcare under the national system, many top companies offer private health care to employees. Especially in Belize City, they may also offer a transportation, meal, or housing allowance. Some companies in Belize have been known to attract top talent by organizing corporate retreats or team rewards at local resorts.

In Belize and many other Latin American countries, company cars are commonly provided to senior and middle management and those in roles that require field work.

As your employment partner in Belize, we can help you craft a competitive compensation package in line with local expectations for your industry and roles.