Why Belize and Costa Rica Have Low Immigration to the US and Canada

Why do Belize and Costa Rica, despite being Central American countries, have very low rates of illegal immigration to the United States and Canada compared to other nations in the region such as Honduras and Guatemala? This article delves into the unique circumstances and socio-economic factors that contribute to these countries' immigrant patterns.

Unusual Case in Costa Rica

There's a small town in Costa Rica with a fascinating yet unusual story. The residents of this town spent years working illegally in the United States under President Trump's employment. Their wages significantly improved their living standards back in Costa Rica, leading to the construction of new homes and infrastructures in their hometown. This highlights the significant, albeit temporary, migration driven purely by economic motivations rather than seeking long-term residency.

Differentiating Factors Between Countries

Belizeans, on the other hand, identify with the British Commonwealth, and Costa Rica has transformed into a prosperous, zero-carbon society. Consequently, their desire to immigrate illegally to the US or Canada has been minimal. In contrast, the political instability in Guatemala and Honduras plays a significant role. Many inhabitants of these countries perceive the US and Canada as the "dream life," albeit with the realization that it might not be as rosy as they imagine.

Stability and Standard of Living

Belize and Costa Rica stand out for their relative stability and higher standards of living compared to their neighbors. These countries boast lower crime rates and a more peaceful environment. In contrast, countries like Honduras and Guatemala are often characterized as kleptocracies—governments where corruption is rampant—and among the most violent and dangerous in the world.

Historical Emigration Patterns

Historically, the emigration dynamics in Belize and Costa Rica have been different. According to one source, there are as few as a hundred thousand Costa Ricans of immigrant background living in the United States. Costa Rica, known for its prosperity and stability, is increasingly attractive to immigrants, with nearly 10% of its population being of immigrant origin. Nicaguans and other Latin Americans, along with North Americans, contribute to this diverse immigrant population, driven primarily by lower healthcare costs and a stable environment.

Impact of Emigration in Belize

Emigration has had a significant impact on Belize, particularly considering its small population of under 400,000. Since the 1980s, Belize has seen a substantial influx of immigrants, primarily from Hispanic Central America. This has led to a notable demographic transformation, with Hispanics becoming the largest population in Belize, and potentially even forming the majority. This situation mirrors immigration trends in countries like the United States, where immigration is a dominant theme.

Conclusion

While Belize and Costa Rica have low rates of illegal immigration to the US and Canada, both countries stand out for their active immigration dynamics. They share similarities with the United States in terms of how immigration shapes their societies, though these dynamics differ from those in neighboring Central American countries. Understanding these unique factors is crucial for gaining insight into regional migration patterns.