Frequently Asked Questions

The owner of the vessel first needs to contact IMMARBE to request registration of the vessel. After an evaluation is conducted by IMMARBE and the BHSFU, confirmation will be sent to the owner that the vessel is accepted. The owner will then need to meet all requirements such as submission of ownership documents, completed application forms, and installation of VMS unit before receiving a high seas fishing license.

The cost of a fishing license varies depending on the size of the vessel, the species to be targeted and the type of vessel.

The timeframe for obtaining a fishing license varies depending on how quickly the client provides the relevant information and documents required for the issuance of a license.

Statistical Document. Certificate of Origin. Catch Certificate. Euro1 Certificate. VMS certificate. Certificate of Compliance (For Chartered-Out vessels)

Quotas are available only for ICCAT regulated species that are subject to quota restrictions such as tropical tunas, albacore and swordfish.

Authorized fishing areas are ICCAT (Atlantic Ocean) IATCC (Eastern Pacific Ocean), SPRFMO (Southern Pacific Ocean). Vessels can only be approved for operation in these areas subject to the obtainment of a fishing license.

A reefer carrier vessel may obtain a license to operate under the Belize flag subject to compliance with license criteria for this vessel type.  Please contact the BHSFU for further information.

Licenses are valid for 1 year.  With proper justification and upon approval from the Director, licenses may be issued for lesser periods.

Vessels that will operate within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of another state must obtain proper authorization and approval from that state.  The HSFL issued by Belize is valid for high seas operations only and is not valid for operation within the EEZ of any State. Belize request copies of all EEZ licenses issued to its vessels as these licenses need to be verified to validate authenticity for the issue supplemental authorization.

Yes, All vessels requesting authorization to fish under Belize flag are required to obtain and install a vessel monitoring system on their vessel simultaneous to obtaining its fishing license

Please visit the Licenses page under the Service tab for full information on the requirements to obtain a fishing license.

Our legislation can be viewed here.

Yes, to obtain a Belize high seas fishing license, the vessel owner needs to apply for registration with IMMARBE.