Belize Still Trying For A Schengen Visa Waiver

Francis Fonseca

For years, Belizeans have had to travel to Mexico in order to apply for a Schengen visa, which is a permit allowing visitors to enter the Schengen region, which comprises of twenty-seven European countries. The question of whether or not Belizeans will ever be allowed a waiver this visa was posed to Minister of Foreign affairs, Francis Fonseca. Here was his response.

Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs

“We haven’t let up on that issue. Even in some initial meetings that I’ve had with representatives of the EU and other institutions we are emphasizing the importance of that issue to Belize. So no, we won’t let up on that issue. Our ambassador in Brussels has that charge as a priority issue for us. So we will continue to engage with them every opportunity I get to speak with representatives of countries in the EU.  We raise that issue and explain to them how critically important it is for Belize. Next week I have another meeting with the EU or later this week, I think on Friday and I will bring that issue up again. So we will continue to work very aggressively on that issue.”

Reporter

“Is this something you would push for as well in your capacity as Minister of Education given that it will open studying opportunities for students abroad as well?”

Francis Fonseca

“Yeah, exactly. That’s absolutely one of the benefits of the visa program and having that visa waiver. It presents so many opportunities. Education is one of, obviously, economic opportunities as well. There’s so many benefits to it.  And we certainly hope that we can advance that issue and that Belize will be included if not this year, next year. Something we will continue to work on.”