Work visas
Belizean Temporary Employment Permit (Work Permit)
The main work authorisation for a foreign national already residing in Belize, allowing them to take up employment and work legally in the country.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Belize government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Temporary Employment Permit
- Route type
- Work permit
- One-year permit fee
- BZ$200–BZ$3,000 depending on profession (e.g. professional workers BZ$3,000; general workers BZ$750; religious/cultural volunteers BZ$200)
- Seasonal (one crop season) fee
- BZ$150 for seasonal agricultural workers
- One week or less (entertainers)
- BZ$600–BZ$1,500
- Decision timeline
- Notification of status within 30 days of submission
Who it is for
- Professional degree holders and technical workers
- General labourers and seasonal agricultural workers
- Self-employed persons, entertainers, traders and peddlers
- Religious/cultural volunteers; domestic staff in exceptional cases
Requirements
- Must be residing in Belize at the time of application
- Valid passport and a valid Belize visa
- Employer submits for employed applicants; self-employed applicants submit themselves
How to apply
- Submit the application at a Labour Department office
- Await notification of status within 30 days
- On approval, visit the nearest Immigration Office with the approval letter
- Obtain an Income Tax Letter from Belize Tax Service and pay the fee; the permit is issued on confirmation of payment
- Register with the Social Security Office after the permit is issued
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.