FSC — Financial Services Commission (formerly IFSC)

Belize FSC
Forex Broker Licence

Belize offers FX brokers zero offshore tax, 100% foreign ownership, and one of the more efficient licensing timelines available — backed by the FSC's established regulatory framework, originally founded in 1999.

Start Your Application →

🇧🇿

RegulatorFSC Belize

Licence TypeForex Broker Licence

Typical Timeline2 – 6 months

Offshore TaxZero

Overview

Why Belize for FX Licensing?

Belize has operated a regulated international financial services framework since 1999. The Financial Services Commission (FSC) — formerly known as the IFSC, rebranded in January 2022 — oversees offshore financial activities and issues licences to FX and securities brokers operating internationally.

The key commercial attractions are clear: zero tax on offshore revenue, 100% foreign ownership of your Belize IBC, and a licensing process that can be among the fastest in the regulated offshore space when applications are properly prepared.

Belize is best positioned for brokers targeting markets that accept offshore regulated entities, or as a starting jurisdiction for brokers planning to add additional licences as their operations grow. It is frequently chosen alongside other jurisdictions as part of a multi-licence strategy. Prospective applicants should note that Belize is currently listed on the EU's Annex II grey list of jurisdictions under review for tax cooperation, which may affect access to certain EU-regulated counterparties.

🚫

Zero Tax on Offshore Revenue

Belize IBCs pay no tax on profits derived from clients outside Belize — making it one of the most tax-efficient jurisdictions for internationally focused FX brokers.

🌍

100% Foreign Ownership

Belize International Business Companies (IBCs) allow complete foreign ownership and full control of profits — no local partner requirement.

⚡

Fast Processing

Belize offers one of the shorter processing timelines among regulated FX jurisdictions, making it suitable for brokers with time-sensitive launch requirements.

🏗️

Straightforward Structure

The FSC licensing framework is well-documented and relatively straightforward to navigate, reducing setup complexity compared to more heavily regulated onshore centres.

Requirements

Key Licensing Requirements

The FSC requires thorough documentation and a credible business plan. These are the primary requirements.

🏢

Belize IBC

The applicant must be incorporated as a Belize International Business Company (IBC), which allows 100% foreign ownership and is the standard entity type for FSC licensees.

📋

Business Plan

A detailed business plan covering your operational strategy, target markets, risk management framework, and financial projections is required.

👥

Fit & Proper Directors

All directors and significant shareholders must pass an FSC fit and proper assessment. Management experience in financial services is expected.

🏠

Local Presence

A registered address in Belize and compliance with FSC substance requirements are mandatory for licensed entities.

🛡️

AML/CFT Compliance

Robust AML/CFT policies and procedures must be implemented, including KYC/KYB processes, suspicious transaction reporting, and client due diligence.

📜

Notarised Documentation

All application documents must be notarised. For non-Belize residents, notarisation is performed in the applicant's home country; documents are typically also apostilled.

How Turmic LLC Gets You Licensed

Assessment & Strategy

We assess your business structure, directorship profiles, and target markets to plan the most effective FSC application approach.

IBC Incorporation

We manage the incorporation of your Belize International Business Company and coordinate registered address requirements.

Compliance Framework

We build your AML/CFT policies, KYC procedures, and all operational documentation to FSC standards.

Document Preparation

We coordinate the preparation, notarisation, and apostilling of all required documents in the applicant's home jurisdiction.

FSC Application

We prepare and submit your complete application to the FSC, managing the review process and any regulator correspondence.

Approval & Launch

Once approved, we support your operational setup and guide you through the FSC's ongoing compliance and reporting requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the FSC and what does it regulate?

The Financial Services Commission (FSC) is Belize's financial services regulator, established in 1999 as the International Financial Services Commission (IFSC) and rebranded in January 2022. It oversees and licenses a range of international financial services activities, including foreign exchange and securities dealing. FSC-licensed brokers are authorised to operate internationally.

What is a Belize International Business Company (IBC)?

A Belize IBC is an offshore corporate entity specifically designed for international business activities. It allows 100% foreign ownership, offers confidentiality provisions, and — when FSC-licensed — provides the legal framework for operating a regulated FX or securities brokerage.

Is Belize a recognised jurisdiction for FX brokers?

Belize is a recognised offshore jurisdiction with an established regulatory framework for FX brokers. While it does not carry the same institutional prestige as Mauritius or Labuan, it is accepted in many international markets and is particularly suitable for brokers seeking a regulated licence with efficient setup and favourable tax treatment. Note that Belize is currently listed on the EU's Annex II grey list of jurisdictions under review for tax cooperation — a factor to consider when assessing access to EU-regulated counterparties.

How is Belize taxed for an FX brokerage?

Belize IBCs pay zero tax on profits generated from clients outside of Belize. This makes the jurisdiction highly tax-efficient for brokers serving an international client base. Domestic Belize operations are subject to local tax rules, but these typically do not affect internationally focused brokerages.

How quickly can I get a Belize FSC licence?

With a complete and well-prepared application, the FSC process can be completed in as few as 2 to 3 months — though a more conservative estimate of 4 to 6 months accounts for documentation gathering and any regulator queries. Turmic LLC's thorough preparation approach aims to minimise unnecessary delays.

What is the minimum capital requirement for a Belize FSC forex broker licence?

Under the FSC (Capital Requirement) Regulations 2023 (SI No. 129 of 2023), the minimum fully paid-up and unimpaired capital for the 'Trading in Commodity-based and Other Financial Instruments' category — which applies to FX and CFD brokers — is USD 500,000. This requirement took effect following the transition from the IFSC to the FSC framework and represents a significant increase from the figures applicable under the previous regime.

Ready to Apply for Your Belize FSC Licence?

From IBC incorporation to FSC approval, we manage the entire process so nothing falls through the cracks. Get in touch to discuss your timeline and requirements.