Residency
and Visas.

Honduran Visas & Residency.

Obtaining Honduran residency is a relatively simple process. That said, individuals cannot represent themselves during the residency proceedings. All applicants must be represented by an attorney registered with the national bar association. The attorney you retain will see to it that all paperwork is submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

 
 

Residency.

There are two residency options to consider. Neither option requires that American citizens denounce their citizenship to the US (or any other country), yet both alternatives allow for a path towards permanent residency in Honduras.

Buying.

Roatan Real Estate ℠ offers an aggregation of realtors, brokers, information, and real estate listings to you, our client. We aim to facilitate successful real estate transactions on Roatan. Click below to learn about Roatan Real Estate.

Moving.

Moving to a new place can be scary, especially if that new place is to a new country. There are a few groups for Roatan on Facebook and there is also an online public forum to help you meet new people as you transition to your new life on Roatan.

 

Retiree or
Pensioner Residency.

  • Pensioner

  • Renter

  • Time Allowance

  • Dispensations

Applying as a Pensioner.

One option is for individuals to apply for a residency as a pensioner or a retiree. And under this option, there are two sub-alternatives. If you are a retiree with proof of income (approx. $1,500/month) from a verifiable source (i.e., Social Security benefits) you can apply for your residency.

Applying as a Renter.

Alternatively, individuals can also apply for Honduran residency under what is known as a "Rentista" which requires proof of income (at least $2,500) from a return on investment, such as a rental property.

Time Allowance.

Neither of these two options has an age limit associated with them. These applications can take between six and nine months to be finalized. If an individual obtains his or her Honduran residency as a retiree, he or she may also qualify for additional benefits.

Tax Dispensations.

Two common tax dispensations ("dispensas") or benefits are related to vehicle importation and the importation of household items. Fees related to these two types of benefits are above and beyond the cost of obtaining a Honduran residency. 

 

Residency
through Employment.

  • Employment Residencies

  • Visas in Good Standing

  • Police Report

Employment Residencies.

The second path to obtaining a Honduran residency is through employment. Individuals can apply for this type of residency as an employee of a company ("key-employee") or as an entrepreneur or owner of a business. Entrepreneurs looking to become Honduran residents must first incorporate a business in Honduras and then use that business to obtain their residency. Key-Employees can apply for their residency through their employer and but show proof of their unique professional qualifications. Certification, licenses, and or diplomas can all be used to satisfy the claim of a Key-Employee. 

Visas in Good Standing.

All applicants for a Honduran residency are required to keep in good standing with their Visas. That includes abiding by the limitation or restrictions of a tourists visa. For this reason, and while individuals wait for their residency to be finalized, they must leave Honduras within 90 of their arrival, and they must remain outside of Honduras for at least 72 hours. Most applicants find that they have to leave the country at least two or three times during their adjustment of status and while local authorities are finalizing the residency application. 

Police Report.

An Apostilled police report and other paperwork are required by all applicants for a Honduran residency. Retiree applicants must also provide an Apostilled or an authenticated proof of income. The Apostille process is a more simplified process, and often it is less expensive than authentication because Apostille can be done at the Secretary of State office, for US residents. Canadians and or residents from any other country which hasn't adopted the Hague Convention can obtain this type of document at the Honduran Consulate in their respective countries. This must be done before arriving in Honduras. 

 

Local
Laws.

Local Laws to Consider.

Photo ID’s.

Honduran Law mandates and requires that all individuals carry a photo ID at all times. Acceptable forms of ID include: Passports, driver licenses, or general government issues ID card. If an individual is stopped by the local authority and asked for an ID, he or she is subject to an arrest if they cannot provide a valid photo ID. 

Travel Visas.

Travelers to Roatan must travel with a valid passport with more than six months of eligibility. Travelers with passports expiring inside of six months will not be allowed to travel to Roatan. 

Travelers will receive an automatic 90-day tourist visa when arriving at a Honduran international airport. The expectation is that travelers who visit Roatan as tourists will leave the country before the 90-day mark.

Travelers can put in a request for an extension of 30 additional days. The extension can be obtained at the immigration office in Coxen Hole. This extension can be requested once unless you are applying for a Honduran residency, at which point you can make an extension request as needed during the adjustment of status. 

Vaccination Guidelines for Roatan

Travelers to Honduras are not required to get vaccinated ahead of their arrival. That said, there are a few vaccines which are recommended by the U.S Center for Disease Control (CDC): 

  • Measles | Mumps | Rubella (MMR)

  • Diphtheria | Tetanus | Pertussis

  • Varicella (chickenpox)

  • Polio

  • Annual Flu Shot

  • Hepatitis A & B

  • Typhoid

  • Rabies

 

Drugs & Sex.

It is illegal to possess narcotics in Honduras. Drugs like marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy are all illegal. Prostitution and having sex with minors is illegal in Honduras. 


Fishing Restrictions.

Visitors to Roatan should understand fishing laws and restrictions around fishing the waters around Roatan. There are specific seasons in place for the protection of marine species. It is always a good idea to be familiar with these restrictions and fishing seasons. At a minimum, understanding fishing restrictions and fishing seasons allow travelers to Roatan to become better consumers at local restaurants and eateries. 

  • The Shrimp season begins on August 1st, and it goes on until the last day in February. 

  • The lobster season begins on July 1st, and it goes on until the last day in February. 

There is no legal or defined season for fishing conch. That said, conch sales are regulated by Hybur, a national distributor in Roatan. It is illegal to sell or fish for any of these species outside of their seasons. 


Drinking and Driving.

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Police roadblocks are common in Roatan. For this reason, drivers should always carry a valid driver's license and should also make sure that the vehicle registration (or "Matricula").

Be sure not to run roadblocks and be sure to treat all law respectfully. 

Drinking and driving are against the law in Roatan. Drivers and passengers alike must make sure not to drive or be driven by anyone under the influence.

Keep in mind that it is illegal in Roatan to drive without a seatbelt and it is also illegal to use your mobile device while driving. In the event of an accident, motorist should not move their vehicles until local police have authorized the move. 

Entry Requirements for UK Citizens Traveling to Honduras

Honduras is a vibrant and diverse destination, attracting visitors with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. If you are a UK citizen planning to travel to Honduras, it is important to understand the entry requirements, visa policies, and necessary documentation to ensure a smooth journey. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide based on the latest regulations set by Honduran authorities.

Passport Validity Requirements

To enter Honduras, your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival and must have at least two blank pages for stamps. It is essential to check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents comply with these requirements.

Additionally, you will not be allowed to enter if:

  • Your passport has expired or does not meet validity requirements.

  • You attempt to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa Requirements

UK citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Honduras. However, cruise ship passengers are permitted to enter Honduras under a "short pass", which allows them to disembark and explore the country during the hours the ship is docked. If passengers wish to remain in Honduras beyond this period, a visa will be required. It is advisable to check with your cruise line or the Honduran Embassy in the UK for specific details.

Applying for a Visa

If you need a visa, you can apply through the Honduran Embassy in London. If you are outside the UK, contact the nearest Honduran Embassy for application procedures. You may also consult the National Institute of Migration (INM) for further assistance.

If you plan to work, study, or travel for business, you must obtain the appropriate visa or work permit as required by the Honduran government. Contact the Honduran Embassy to determine which type of visa you need.

Every service should be consulted via email with the Embassy of Honduras in the UK: hondurasembassyuk@gmail.com

Length of Stay and Overstaying Penalties

Upon arrival, UK tourists will receive a 30-day entry stamp in their passport. Ensure that the border control officer stamps your passport, as failure to do so may result in fines or travel complications. If you wish to extend your stay, you may apply at an immigration office in Honduras. Tourists are allowed to stay for up to 90 days, with a possibility of extending for an additional 30 days by applying through the National Institute of Migration. Overstaying your visa may result in fines that must be paid before leaving Honduras. To learn more about extending your stay or paying a fine, contact the National Institute of Migration.

Entry Requirements for Travelers Under 20 Years Old

Travelers aged 20 and under who are entering or exiting Honduras alone or with only one parent/legal guardian must present a notarized letter in Spanish from the parents or guardians who are not traveling. Single parents may need to provide additional documents. Contact the Honduran Embassy in the UK or the National Institute of Migration for precise requirements.

Taxes and Fees

Airport Departure Tax

When leaving Honduras by air, you must pay an international departure tax of $48.44 USD (or the equivalent in Honduran lempiras). This tax is usually included in your flight ticket. For domestic flights, there is a departure tax of 54.13 Honduran lempiras (or the equivalent in USD).

Land Border Fee

If entering or exiting Honduras via a land border, immigration authorities will charge a $3 USD fee. Keep the receipt until you leave the country and ensure that your passport is properly stamped.

Customs Regulations

Honduras has strict regulations on the import and export of goods. You must declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to duties. Upon entering Honduras, you are required to complete a customs declaration form issued by the Government of Honduras. This form must be presented to customs authorities, either in printed format or electronically via a QR code.

Contact Information for the Honduran Embassy in the UK

For all visa applications and consular services, contact the Embassy of Honduras in the UK:

📧 Email: hondurasembassyuk@gmail.com
📍 Appointments: The Consular Section is available by appointment only, on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Final Travel Checklist

✅ Passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages
✅ Visa (unless traveling on a cruise ship short pass)
✅ Notarized travel authorization for minors under 20 (if applicable)
✅ Proof of return flight or onward travel
✅ Customs declaration form completed before arrival

Plan Your Trip with Confidence

By following these guidelines, UK travelers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Honduras. For any additional visa inquiries, legal requirements, or travel extensions, always consult with the Honduran Embassy in the UK or the National Institute of Migration.

Enjoy your trip to Honduras and experience its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality!