If you own a property in Belize and want to rent it out on Airbnb or VRBO, you are legally required to register and license it with the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) before you accept a single guest. Belize regulates all short-term tourist accommodation under the Hotels and Tourist Accommodation Act (Chapter 285).
Operating an unlicensed rental is risky: penalties can reach a US$5,000 fine, and the authorities can issue a cease-and-desist order. This guide breaks the process into clear steps so you know exactly what is required.
Step 1: Confirm your property needs a BTB license
Any property rented to tourists on a short-term basis (under six months) must be registered and licensed by the Belize Tourism Board. This applies whether you rent a single condo, a beach house, or a multi-room hotel.
If you only rent long-term (six months or more), the BTB accommodation license may not apply — but you will still need a trade license and to declare your rental income.
Step 2: Gather your supporting documents
The BTB application requires proof of ownership (land title), your company or business registration documents, proof of property insurance, and — if your property is inside a town or city — a municipal trade license.
Because the BTB coordinates safety and quality inspections, you will also need clearances from several agencies: the Central Building Authority (occupancy certificate), the Department of Environment (environmental clearance), the National Fire Service (no-objection report), and the Ministry of Health (public health inspection).
Step 3: Submit your application to the BTB
Applications for hotel registration and accommodation licensing are submitted online to the Belize Tourism Board's licensing team. Renewing properties complete the application form and pay an application fee of BZ$25 plus a licensing fee of BZ$5 per room or accommodation unit.
The BTB reviews your file and coordinates the required inspections. Once your application is approved, the license is typically ready within about three business days.
Not sure which of these apply to your specific property? Tell us about it and we'll map out exactly what you need.
Ask Us FreeStep 4: Display your license and collect the 9% tax
After approval, your license number must be displayed, and you are required to collect the 9% hotel accommodation tax from every guest and remit it to the government, usually monthly.
You will also need to keep your clearances current — the CBA occupancy certification, for example, is renewed on a multi-year cycle.
How MD Elite makes this simpler
Coordinating six government agencies from abroad is where most owners get stuck. MD Elite handles the entire process — document preparation, agency liaison, inspections, and the BTB submission — so you can focus on your property rather than the paperwork.
First-time clients also receive an 8% discount on BTB documents.
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MD Elite handles the entire process — CBA, DOE, MOH, Fire, and BTB — so you don't have to. First-time clients get 8% off BTB documents.
Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a license to run an Airbnb in Belize?+
Yes. By law, any property rented to tourists short-term must be registered and licensed by the Belize Tourism Board. Operating without a license can result in fines up to US$5,000 and a cease-and-desist order.
How much does a Belize Airbnb license cost?+
The BTB charges an application fee of BZ$25 plus a licensing fee of BZ$5 per room or unit. Additional costs apply for the supporting clearances (CBA, DOE, Fire, Health) and any required trade license.
How long does it take to get licensed?+
Once your full application is submitted and approved, the BTB license is usually ready within about three business days. Gathering the supporting clearances beforehand is what takes the most time.
Can a foreigner get an Airbnb license in Belize?+
Yes. Belize places no restrictions on foreign property ownership, and foreign owners can license accommodations — though in some towns like San Pedro the trade-license step can be more involved.