Somaliland

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Somaliland, 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 Somaliland

Capital

Hargeisa

Main Cities

Berbera, Burao, Gabiley, Borama

Local Languages

Somali (official) and Arabic

Currency

Somaliland Shilling (SLSH)

Climate

2 Seasons - Dry Season & Rainy Season

General Visa Requirements:

Visas are required for foreign nationals, and they can be obtained on arrival or through the Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Required Documents:

Completed visa application form
Passport for stamping
Two passport-sized photos
Flight itinerary and hotel booking or invitation letter

Visa Application Process:

Visa applications can be submitted through the Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs or at the embassy.

Processing Time:

Available on arrival or in a few working days if done in advance.

Cost:

Approximately $75 per crew member (cash).

Accreditation Requirements:

All foreign crew must be accredited with the Somaliland Ministry of Information.

Required Documents:

Letter from the foreign organization, listing crew members and their profiles
Resume for each crew member
Passport copy
Passport-sized photo

Processing Time:

Up to 10 working days.

Cost:

$150 per crew member.

Issuing Organization:

Ministry of Information.

Required Documents:

A letter from the foreign organization listing crew members
The organization’s valid license
Personal profiles of crew members, passport copies, and passport-sized photos

Processing Time:

7–10 working days.

Cost:

Approximately $1,000–$1,500 depending on the project.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Landowner permissions and negotiations: Access to private land usually requires direct negotiation with the owner or custodian. Depending on the region and the owner, this can include financial compensation, community benefit agreements, or other terms (e.g. restricted operating hours, limitations on disruptive activities).
Local customs and relationships: In Somaliland, clan dynamics, local leadership (such as elders or community gatekeepers), and traditional authority often play a strong role in granting access to land. A local fixer who knows the community is essential to facilitate trust and avoid misunderstandings.
Regulatory permissions: Even on private property, you may still need a formal film permit if your filming includes public roads, requires closures, or involves significant crew/equipment movement. Some locations—especially near official or “sensitive” infrastructure—may require governmental approval or oversight.
Security and logistics: Private locations in Somaliland may vary greatly in accessibility, from urban homes to remote farms or coastal areas. A fixer can help assess the physical accessibility (roads, terrain), security risk, lodging proximity, and transport logistics, and plan accordingly.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Transport costs, fuel, crew accommodation and travel can escalate rapidly the more remote or rugged the location is. Be prepared to budget significantly more than in more infrastructure-rich countries.

Drone Regulations:

Drone usage is allowed in Somaliland with restrictions. The operation must be coordinated with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, and it is advised to avoid flying near airports, government buildings, or military installations.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drone registration certificate
Commercial invoice, air waybill/bill of lading
Customs declaration form, certificate of origin, and insurance certificate
Drone operators permit and flight plan

Permit Issuance:

Ministry of Information, Ministry of Interior

Timing:

Approximately 5–7 business days.

Cost:

$300–$500 depending on the drone specifications.

Carnet Status:

Somaliland is not a carnet country.

Upon arrival, production teams must provide a detailed list of equipment being imported. The equipment will be cleared through customs with the help of a local clearing agent to avoid paying customs duties.

Required Documents:

A full list of equipment, including make, model, serial number, and value
Customs clearance application

Issuing Organization:

Somaliland Customs Authority

Timing:

1–2 working days.

Cost:

Customs clearance fees vary, with an estimated cost of $100 for clearing agents.

General Overview:

Filming in Somaliland is generally safe, with the region experiencing more stability compared to other areas in the Horn of Africa. However, as with any international filming location, it is essential to take proper security precautions. Working with experienced local partners like Hoodlum Film Fixers ensures that your production team stays informed and protected while navigating the region’s logistics. Always check current security advisories and ensure local regulations are followed to maintain a smooth filming experience.

Security Requirements:

Film Permits & Security Clearance: A film permit from Somaliland authorities often comes with mandatory security conditions.
Police Liaison: Productions are generally expected to inform or coordinate with local police or security offices about crew movements and filming activities.
Official Escorts: For certain sensitive areas, the government may require that productions travel with official police or military escorts.