Belize

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Belize, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Belize

Capital

Belmopan

Main Cities

Belmopan, Belize City, San Ignacio, Orange Walk Town, Corozal

Local Languages

English, Spanish, Kriol

Currency

Belize Dollar (BZD)

Climate

Tropical

General Visa Requirements:

Many nationalities, including citizens of the US, UK, EU, and Commonwealth countries, may enter Belize visa-free for up to 30 days. A valid passport, onward or return travel, and accommodation details are required. Film crews must also register their production with the Belize Film Commission before commencing any filming activities in the country.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Completed immigration entry form
Flight details and accommodation information
Belize Film Commission production registration
Equipment list for customs (if applicable)
Full crew list

Visa Application Process:

Eligible nationals receive visa-free entry on arrival. Productions must complete registration with the Belize Film Commission, and any required visitor permit extensions or filming permissions are coordinated locally, usually through a fixer or production partner.

Processing Time:

Visa-free entry is granted on arrival, and visitor permit extensions are typically processed within one to two business days.

Cost:

Visa-free entry carries no fee, while visitor permit extensions generally cost approximately USD 100, subject to variation.

Accreditation Requirements:

All foreign film crews must be officially registered with the Belize Film Commission prior to filming. A licensed Belizean fixer or producer is mandatory and acts as the legal liaison, ensuring compliance with immigration, safety regulations, and customs requirements.

Required Documents:

Script or treatment
Detailed filming schedule
Full crew list with passport copies
Equipment list with serial numbers
Proof of insurance
Marine or jungle safety plans
Location permissions
Permits for archaeological or protected sites

Processing Time:

Standard accreditation approvals typically take between three and seven business days, with longer timelines possible for protected or sensitive areas.

Cost:

Accreditation costs vary depending on filming locations and special-access requirements.

Issuing Organization:

All film permits in Belize are issued by the Belize Film Commission, the official permitting authority for film and television productions.

Required Documents:

Full script or treatment
Storyboard (optional)
Filming schedule
Location list with permissions
Insurance documentation
Equipment list
Stunt, marine, or aerial plans
Cultural site permits where required

Processing Time:

Standard film permits are generally processed within three to seven business days, while filming in sensitive or protected areas may require up to ten to fifteen days.

Cost:

The Film Registration Certificate costs USD 250 for the first 30 days, with a 30-day extension costing USD 125, and reduced rates of USD 50 available for research or educational shoots.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Filming on private property requires written approval from landowners, negotiated usage agreements, and compliance with cultural and environmental regulations. A licensed Belizean fixer manages all permissions and contractual arrangements.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location fees vary depending on exclusivity, accessibility, and operational impact on the property.

Drone Regulations:

Drone operations in Belize are regulated, and professional aerial filming requires prior approval to ensure aviation safety and environmental compliance.

Drone Importation Regulations:

All drones must be declared upon entry, and pre-submitted equipment lists are required for duty-free temporary importation.

Permit Issuance:

Drone permits are issued by the Belize Department of Civil Aviation, with additional permissions required for protected or restricted areas.

Timing:

Drone permits are typically processed within five to ten business days.

Cost:

Standard drone permit fees are approximately BZD 30, equivalent to around USD 15.

Carnet Status:

Belize does not participate in the ATA Carnet system, and all professional filming equipment must be temporarily imported under local customs procedures.

Required Documents:

Passports
Travel itinerary
Full equipment list with declared values
Production registration confirmation
Customs broker forms

Issuing Organization:

Equipment clearance is handled by the Belize Customs & Excise Department, usually coordinated through a registered customs broker.

Timing:

With pre-approval, customs clearance generally takes one to two days; without pre-approval, processing may take three to five days.

Cost:

Broker fees vary, and no import duties are charged provided all equipment is re-exported.

General Overview:

Belize is generally safe for film crews, particularly in established tourism zones. Productions should account for tropical weather, ocean currents, jungle terrain, and logistical challenges in remote areas.

Security Requirements:

Use licensed local fixers and production partners
Hire certified marine, dive, and jungle guides
Follow regulations for protected and archaeological areas
Secure equipment during all transport
Implement appropriate safety and risk-management plans

Rebates/Incentives:

Belize does not currently offer formal film rebates or tax incentive programs. Productions may, however, receive logistical assistance, location support, and tourism partnerships depending on the nature and scale of the project.

Meet our Local Team

Brent

Belize

Joseph

Client Brief

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Services We Provide in Belize

Accommodation

Airport Protocol & On-Ground Support

Casting & Talent

Catering

Crew Sourcing

Customs Clearance

Drone & Aerial Permits

Drone & Drone Operator

Equipment Rentals

Film Permits

Line Producers & Production Management

Local Film Fixers

Locations / RECCE’s

Logistics

Rebates & Incentives

Research

Risk Management

Security

Set Dressing / Production Design

Transport & Vehicles

Visas & Work Permits

News from the Region

Film Infrastructure in Belize

Documentary Filming in Belize

Documentary Filming in Belize is one of those rare assignments where the visuals…

Introduction

Hoodlum provides top-tier film fixer services with a strong presence in Belize, offering essential support to international film production teams. With extensive experience, we specialize in location scouting, permit acquisition, and sourcing local crews to ensure your project runs seamlessly from start to finish. Belize, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cultures, and unique ecosystems, has become an attractive destination for filmmakers. Whether you’re producing a commercial, feature film, TV series, or documentary, Hoodlum’s expert team on the ground is your reliable partner for efficient film production logistics and services.

Planning to film in Belize? Let Hoodlum take care of all the details—from permits to locations—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact Hoodlum today to discover how we can make your Belize film production a success.

Country Overview

Located in Central America, this region offers a diverse landscape featuring pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant coral reefs. With its strategic location, Belize has become a popular choice for international film and TV productions, thanks to its stunning natural backdrops and rich cultural heritage.

Main Cities:

Belmopan: The capital city, located in the Cayo District.

Belize City: The largest city and former capital, located on the Caribbean coast.

San Ignacio: A popular tourist destination in the Cayo District, near the Guatemalan border.

Orange Walk Town: Located in the north, known for its agricultural industry.

Corozal: A coastal town in the north, near the Mexican border.

Dangriga: The largest city in the Stann Creek District, known for its Garifuna culture.

Punta Gorda: The southernmost city, located in the Toledo District.

Production in Mexico requires permits from Mexican officials. Belizeans cannot work in Mexico.

Placencia: (on the Placencia Peninsula in the Stann Creek District)

Benque Viejo del Carmen: (located near Guatemala’s border, in the Cayo Dis

Local Language:

The official language is English, although Spanish and Kriol are also widely spoken.

Local Currency:

Belize Dollar (BZD). USD is accepted everywhere in Belize. Exchange rate is fixed at 2BZD = 1USD.

Climate:

This region has a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round and a wet season from June to November.

Visa Requirements

None of the above applies to production crews visiting this region. Tourist visas are only required if crew members are nationals of certain countries that require a visitor’s visa to enter Belize.

International Crew Accreditation

General Accreditation Requirements:

Submit application and supporting documents.
Review by the Belize Film Commission.
Registration with the Belize Immigration Department.
Project synopsis and crew/equipment lists required.

Required Documentation:

Valid passport, visa (if required), location agreements, and liability insurance.

Timings:

Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks.

General Film Permit

Issuing Organization:
The Film Commission (BFC) is responsible for issuing film permits.

Timings:

Application Review: 1-3 business days
Location Approval: 2-5 business days
Permit Issuance: 1-2 business days

Application Requirements:

Film permit application form, project synopsis, crew list, and equipment list.

Cost:

Approximately $500-$1,000 USD.

Private Locations

General Process:

Location scouting, owner contact, negotiation, permitting, and logistics planning.

Cost:

Private location fees range from $500-$2,000 USD per day.

Drone Permit

Drone Regulations:

Drones must be operated under the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations, with a maximum flight altitude of 400 feet and visual line of sight maintained.

Permit Issuance:

Required from the CAA.

Required Documentation:

Drone permit application form, film permit application form, project synopsis, and drone specifications. https://drone-laws.com/drone-laws-in-belize/