Thursday, January 16, 2025

GOB introduces new digital immigration and customs declaration system

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The Government of Belize (GOB) has launched a new Digital Immigration and Customs Declaration System to streamline the travel process for arrivals and departures. This initiative started on December 1, 2024, at the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) and will be rolled out in phases over three months. During this transition period, travelers can choose between using the digital system or traditional paper forms, ensuring a smooth adjustment as the new platform is improved based on user feedback.
By January 1, 2025, the digital system will be fully implemented across all ports of entry in Belize, marking a significant transition to a digital immigration process. This modernization effort aligns with the government’s broader objectives of enhancing efficiency, improving data accuracy, and promoting sustainability within the travel sector.
With the new Digital Immigration and Customs Declaration System, travelers can now complete their immigration and customs forms online before their arrival or departure. This significantly reduces the time spent at entry and exit points. Moreover, digital submissions are intended to minimize waiting times, allowing for quicker passage through immigration and customs. GOB also aims to demonstrate its commitment to environmental sustainability by transitioning to a paperless system that benefits both travelers and the planet.
Travelers are encouraged to use the user-friendly web portal to complete their forms in advance. The government actively seeks feedback during this initial phase to ensure the system is continuously improved. This digital initiative is timely, coinciding with Belize’s peak tourism season. The streamlined travel process is expected to enhance visitors’ experiences as they explore the country’s famous attractions, such as Lighthouse Reef and Mayflower Bocawina National Park. To prepare for their trips, travelers should ensure their passports are valid for at least three months before arrival. Additionally, citizens from several countries, including the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, and European Union nations, do not need visas for short stays in Belize.
Belize’s new digital immigration and customs system is a major step in enhancing travel convenience and efficiency. By leveraging technology, the government seeks to provide travelers with a more streamlined experience while addressing environmental concerns through decreased paper usage.
To complete your digital forms before traveling, visit https://belizetravel.immigration.gov.bz/Belize_Digital_Forms/

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