Belize Summary

Update: Belize Telecommunications Limited (BTL) has a new Numbering Plan for Belize, effective from May 1, 2002. With this numbering plan, a new 7-digit number will be applied countrywide, replacing the existing 4 or 5-digit telephone number, plus area code. The new system has no area codes (similar to the system introduced in Guatemala several years ago). You’ll now need dial the entire 7 digits for all calls whether within the same area or district or to another area or district. I wish I could tell you about a simple way to convert the old numbers into the new, but in many cases the conversion code depends on whether the number is a landline and on the current area code, or a fixed or mobile cellular phone. However, here are two ways to find out: You can visit one of two websites set up for the conversion: and , then click on the New Numbering Plan icon and type in the old number in the box. If you’re already in Belize you can pick up a booklet listing conversion codes from any BTL office (locations of the main ones are covered in the _ Rough Guide_). BTL introduced this change with very little warning. Certainly they made no mention of it when I interviewed a member of their customer service team last year, while researching the current (2nd) edition of The Rough Guide to Belize. Many businesses had no idea of the forthcoming change until I told them, sometimes only weeks before May 1st. I’ve tried using the conversion box on the website and I’ve found it (generally) works for landline phones (most numbers in Belize) but didn’t do too well on cell phones. I hope this helps. If you continue to have problems, contact me at and I’ll try to find out the correct number for you. Please note that most of the numbers listed on this website have been updated.