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.