Belize Takes First and Additional Foreign Nationals Under US Safe Third Country Agreement

Belize has begun implementing its Safe Third Country Agreement with the United States, allowing case‑by‑case transfers of third‑country nationals seeking protection. The first group of eight individuals arrived in July 2026, including a 41‑year‑old Haitian national, after Belize’s foreign ministry and immigration authorities completed all required reviews and clearances.

A second group is scheduled to land tomorrow on a deportation flight carrying eighteen passengers. Ten Belizean nationals will be returned home, while eight foreign nationals—five Haitians and one each from Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua—will undergo security and background checks before being handed over to the UNHCR refugee programme for housing and support. Belize retains full discretion to accept or decline any transfer under the agreement.