Sri Lanka

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Sri Lanka, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Sri Lanka

Capital

Colombo

Main Cities

Galle, Kandy, Dambulla, Anuradhapura, Trincomalee, Jaffna

Local Languages

Sinhalese, Tamil, English

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Climate

Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

Script and Storyboard: Full copies. Location Schedule: Detailed shooting plan. Equipment List: Inventory for customs clearance. Crew List: Names, nationalities, and roles.

Required Documents:

Valid Passport: Minimum six months’ validity.
Visa Application Form: Completed and signed.
Recent Passport Photos: At least two.
Proof of Payment: Visa fee receipt.

Visa Application Process:

Application Link:

Sri Lanka Visa.

Processing Time:

2–4 weeks.

Cost:

$30–$100.

Accreditation Requirements:

Film Documentation: Synopsis, treatment, script, and shooting schedule.

Required Documents:

Passport: At least six months’ validity.
Visa: Film or work visa as applicable.
Introduction Letter: From the production company.
Insurance: Health and liability coverage.
Film Documentation: Synopsis, treatment, script, and shooting schedule.

Processing Time:

7–14 days via the National Film Corporation (NFC).

Cost:

$150–$500 depending on the project type.

Issuing Organization:

National Film Corporation (NFC).

Required Documents:

Passport copies, visas, and crew list.
Introduction letter and proof of insurance.
Film-specific documents (script, schedule, treatment, equipment list).
Permits for specific locations and customs clearance forms.

Processing Time:

2–4 weeks.

Cost:

$150–$500.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Scouting: Work with local fixers or managers.
Consent: Written agreement from property owners.
Applications: Submit permits to local authorities.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

$200–$2,000 per day depending on location.

Drone Regulations:

Registration and operator’s Remote Pilot License (RPL).
Operational manual and insurance.
No-objection certificates from local police.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Additional documentation required for customs clearance.

Permit Issuance:

Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).

Timing:

2–4 weeks.

Cost:

$110

Carnet Status:

Yes, Sri Lanka is a Carnet Country.

Required Documents:

Commercial invoices and packing lists.
Equipment insurance and detailed shooting schedules.

Issuing Organization:

Sri Lanka Customs Department.

Timing:

24 working days.

Cost:

$150–$600.

General Overview:

Political Stability: Situations have improved post-2019.
Health Concerns: Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and necessary vaccinations.
Natural Disasters: Be mindful of tsunamis and flooding.