Belize - Clearance

Belize Pre-Arrival Procedures for Yachts

SailClear:

SailClear can be used to submit information about your voyage to Customs and Immigration at least 24 hours before arrival or departure. Keep a copy of the SailClear confirmation.

For a full explanation of SailClear and other web clearance services in the Caribbean see report: Eastern Caribbean Cruising: Clearance Procedures Simplified

It should be noted that this is not mandatory in Belize, and there may still be forms to fill out on arrival, however it will save you some time.

Notice of Arrival:

Upon entering Belize's territorial waters, all yachts must make contact with the Belize Port Authority via VHF (Channel 16) or by e-mail to - vto@portauthority.bz - plus the e-mail address on the form, giving "Notice of Arrival". The NOA form can be found here. This should be submitted at the latest 48 hours prior to arrival.

Yachts may be fined for not notifying the Port Authority in advance of check-in.

Also include copies of passports and boat registration.

Belize Arrival Procedures for Yachts

Advance Notification:

Upon entering Belize's territorial waters, all yachts must make contact with the Belize Port Authority via VHF (Channel 16)

Belize Ports of Entry:

All ports of entry are open to foreign recreational vessels.

Note that entry and exit fees vary widely from port to port.  Punta Gorda is the most legal and cheapest port of entry to visit.  San Pedro is the most corrupt and expensive followed by Big Creek. See Fees for more details.

At Belize City and Big Creek, Customs and Immigration offices are close to the Port Control office.

In Punta Gorda all offices are together in one building by the dinghy dock, however it is an open roadstead so only tenable in settled weather.

Belize General Clearance Process:

On arrival, all boats must contact the Belize Port Authority on VHF Channel 16 (or HF Channel 2182) who will direct boats as necessary.

All boats must clear immediately with:

• Ministry of Health and Wellness
• Immigration
• Customs
• Agriculture department
• BPA (Belize Port Authority)

The opening hours for most of the officials is Mon to Thur 09:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 17:00 in some places and others 08:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00. Fridays closed at 3:30.

Bear this in mind if arriving at the weekend as clearance on a Sunday or out of hours will incur overtime charges, which can be high and charged by the hour. The best times to check-in are 10:00-11:00 or 14:00-15:00, to avoid overtime fees.

Customs require copies of crew lists, stores lists, ship's papers and zarpe from previous port.

Belize Domestic Cruising:

Fees are charged for sailing in the marine parks, the eight of which cover most of the water inside the barrier reef. See Fees below for more details.

Belize Departure Procedures for Yachts

After clearance to depart has been completed, yachts must leave promptly, or within 24 hours. The authorities do patrol their waters to enforce this regulation.

There are some departure taxes (see Fees below for more details).

Belize Port Authority

Last updated: May 2024