Belize
Location: Central America
Visas & Permits
Visas & Work Permits
Entry to Belize is subject to regulations from country of origin. Crew travelling on Western passports can enter visa-free for stays of up to 30 days.
Please contact a local embassy, consulate or representative for more information. Alternatively, there are specialist companies that provide visa and immigration support to the media industry, and may be able to assist.
Film Location Permits
In Belize, film permits are a quick and easy process. These permits allow filming anywhere in the country for up to 30 days and also cover clearing film equipment through customs.
The government of Belize is very film friendly, and has even been known to offer the support of army and police to assist a shoot.
Customs
For productions looking to bring in film equipment, Belize is not an ATA carnet country.
Some basic equipment exists locally. Bringing in additional gear is an easy process.
Allow at least two weeks before arrival to ensure duty exemptions. Authorities are film friendly, so this can be expedited if necessary.
When to Film
When to Film
Belize’s climate is sub-tropical, tempered by trade winds. Typically, Belize gets more rain further south. The dry season runs from December to May. The wet season runs from June to November.
Belize is a predominately Christian country, so those holidays are observed.
Public Holidays
Public holidays may affect timing, availability and costs. See here for public holiday dates in Belize.
Costs & VAT
Local costs are very competitive. Since little filming infrastructure exists in Belize, most key crew and equipment need to be brought in from abroad.
Belize doesn’t have a VAT system but a General Sales Tax that, at the time of writing, is set at 12.5%.
Funding & Tax Incentives
At the time of writing, this country does not have any filming incentives. However, up-to-date information on global filming incentives may be found on the Entertainment Partners' Production Incentives Map.