Belize customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Belize allows duty-free import of 1 liter of alcohol (spirits over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/beer, and 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco for travellers 18+. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Strict bans on narcotics, firearms, and certain agricultural products without permits.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount over USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form (CDF) upon arrival.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods up to USD 800 (or BZD 1,600) are duty-free. Above that, duty and taxes apply at standard rates.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, even for medical use without prior authorization)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (unless with a valid Belizean firearm license and prior permit)
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Pornographic materials
  • Endangered species and products (e.g., ivory, turtle shells, coral) under CITES
  • Certain agricultural products: fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy without a phytosanitary certificate

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam) – require a doctor's prescription and a permit from the Belize Ministry of Health
  • Pets (dogs, cats) – require an import permit, valid rabies vaccination, and health certificate
  • Plants and plant products – require a phytosanitary certificate from the Belize Agricultural Health Authority
  • Drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) – require prior approval from the Belize Civil Aviation Authority
  • Satellite phones – require a license from the Belize Public Utilities Commission

Rules worth knowing

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Non-residents may bring a vehicle for up to 3 months without duty, but must post a bond or pay a refundable deposit equal to the duty. A Carnet de Passages en Douane is recommended.

Duty-Free Allowance for Residents Returning

Belizean residents returning from abroad have a reduced duty-free allowance of USD 200 (BZD 400) for goods, unless they have been abroad for more than 48 hours, then it increases to USD 800.

Prohibition on Importing Firearms Without License

All firearms and ammunition require a valid Belizean firearm license issued by the Commissioner of Police. Unlicensed firearms are seized and may lead to prosecution.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can bring additional alcohol, but you must declare it and pay duty and taxes. The duty rate varies by type and volume; expect around 20-30% of the value plus 12.5% GST.
No, personal electronics like laptops and cameras for your own use are generally not counted in the USD 800 duty-free allowance. However, if you bring multiple units, customs may consider them commercial and assess duty.
Failure to declare amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent) can result in seizure of the cash and a fine of up to 100% of the undeclared amount, plus possible criminal charges.
No, fresh fruits and vegetables are generally prohibited without a phytosanitary certificate. Dried or processed foods are usually allowed if properly packaged and declared.
Yes, the duty-free allowance is 50 cigars. If you bring more, you must declare them and pay duty on the excess. Cigars are subject to the same tobacco allowance as cigarettes.
For personal use, you can bring up to a 30-day supply of prescription medication without a permit, provided it is in original packaging and accompanied by a doctor's prescription. Controlled substances (e.g., painkillers) require a permit from the Belize Ministry of Health.

Official source

Belize Customs and Excise Department

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Belize Customs and Excise Department before travelling.