How do I get a business license in Belize?

When doing business in Belize, it is important to get the right business license for your company. Generally, there are two main types of Belize license that you must know:

Trade license in Belize

Businesses providing any kind of service or product in Belize have to obtain a trade license. You can register the license with the local city or town council. The fees for trade licenses in Belize are divided into sectors and charged based on the annual rental value of the property. For instance, supermarkets, grocery stores, furniture stores, and repair businesses are subject to a 3.5% fee. Hardware stores, gas stations, and dentistry offices are all subject to a 5% fee. For businesses engaging in gaming or monopolies, the highest rate is 25%.

Belize financial license

If your business operates in the international financial services industry in or from within Belize, you must carry a Belize financial license. The Belize Financial Service Commision (FSC) is in charge of granting the license. There are 13 types of Belize financial license, prominently including International asset protection and management, Money Transmission, Accounting, and Payment processing Services. The application fee is flat US$1,000 for each type, but the renewal fee is different ranging from US$5,000 to US$25,000.