BELIZE TRUST

Belize Offshore Trusts: Not the Best Choice

What People Believe About Belize Offshore Trusts

Belize has traditionally been promoted as a favorable jurisdiction for offshore trusts, with promises of strong asset protection and financial privacy. These perceived benefits have led many to consider Belize as a destination for estate planning, wealth preservation, and asset shielding. But is this still true in 2025?

A Belize offshore trust is a legal structure where a trustee manages assets on behalf of beneficiaries. The Trusts Act of Belize outlines the framework, allowing for flexible trust types such as discretionary, fixed, or purpose trusts. In theory, this system supports confidentiality and control over one’s financial legacy.

Proponents of Belizean trusts often point to the ability to shield assets from creditors, lawsuits, or political instability in the settlor's home country. Belize also does not publicly register trust details, and local law emphasizes the privacy of trust arrangements. However, these benefits are increasingly overshadowed by structural limitations and international banking constraints.

The Hidden Challenges of Belize Offshore Trusts

While Belize may appear attractive on paper, the reality in 2025 reveals a different picture. First, the initial cost of setting up a trust in Belize is high—and recurring annual fees remain burdensome. These ongoing costs reduce the financial efficiency that offshore clients seek.

More critically, Belize’s banking infrastructure is extremely limited. Only two small banks remain viable for opening a trust-related account, and both are notorious for bureaucratic delays, account freezes, and constant documentation demands. These challenges make it difficult to manage assets securely or operate a trust smoothly.

It’s also nearly impossible to open a bank account outside Belize for a Belizean trust. Most international banks view Belize as a high-risk jurisdiction and refuse to onboard Belize-based entities. This significantly reduces financial flexibility and adds legal complications for global investors.

Why Delaware Trusts Are a Smarter Choice

If you’re seeking international asset protection or estate planning, a Delaware trust offers stronger advantages with far fewer obstacles. Delaware is a U.S. state with a robust legal system, global recognition, and the highest level of banking access. Unlike Belize, trusts formed in Delaware benefit from:

• ✅ Global bank acceptance and ease of account setup
• ✅ Lower annual maintenance and filing costs
• ✅ Enhanced asset protection under U.S. trust law
• ✅ Flexible structures (Domestic Asset Protection Trusts, Directed Trusts, Charitable Trusts, etc.)
• ✅ No perception of secrecy or regulatory blacklisting

Delaware is also favored by family offices, multinational corporations, and high-net-worth individuals due to its stable reputation and well-developed trust law. The jurisdiction is not only respected—it is preferred. With faster setup, modern tools for administration, and better international access, a Delaware trust can offer everything a Belize trust promises—and more.

Incorporate a Delaware Trust or LLC Today

We help clients from around the world set up their Delaware LLCs and trusts with speed and precision. Our team is ready to support you 7 days a week, answer your questions, and ensure your structure is compliant, efficient, and bank-ready. Let us handle the process while you protect your wealth globally.