Mozambique

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Mozambique, 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 Mozambique

Capital

Maputo

Main Cities

Beira, Nampula

Local Languages

Makhuwa; Changana; Nyanja; Ndau; Sena; Chwabo; Tswa

Currency

Meticais – 1 Metical = .016 USD

Climate

Tropical to Sub-Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

Since May 1, 2023, citizens of the following 29 countries could travel to Mozambique visa-free for up to 30 days, with an option to extend. However, from April 24, 2025, these travelers must now secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance: Belgium, Canada, China, Côte d’Ivoire, Denmark, Finland, Ghana, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States.

Required Documents:

  • Invitation letter from a Mozambican host organisation or hotel booking.
  • Financial documents showing means of support during the stay.
  • Passport info, return ticket, and accommodation details.

Visa Application Process:

Mozambique has introduced a mandatory ETA for citizens of 29 visa-exempt countries.

  • Travelers must apply online at least 48 hours before departure.
  • A processing fee is required.

The new system is designed to improve security and streamline entry procedures.

  • The ETA is a mandatory pre-travel registration, previously optional, but now compulsory for legal entry.
  • Apply online: www.evisa.gov.mz
  • Validity: 3 months from approval date
  • Purpose: Legal entry notification (not a visa)

Processing Time:

Online approval within minutes (if documents are complete).

Cost:

Payable at the local embassy (amount varies).

Accreditation Requirements:

All foreign crew members are required to obtain a temporary work permit to operate legally in Mozambique.

Required Documents:

  • General filming permit
  • Profile photo
  • CV / Resume / Portfolio
  • Passport scan
  • Estimated arrival and departure dates for each crew member

Processing Time:

Applications are typically processed within 2 – 4 weeks. Early submission is advised to avoid delays.

Cost:

Approximately $180 per crew member Valid for a 30-day period

Issuing Organization:

National Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema (INAC)

Required Documents:

Mandatory documents include; film synopsis; list of international crew members; list of equipment, including serial numbers; budget for this region

Processing Time:

2 weeks

Cost:

1% of the budget to be spent in Mozambique Minimum payment: 8,500 meticais (approximately $130 USD)

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Hoodlum will identify potential private locations that fit your filming needs and negotiate with location owners or managers to secure permission to film.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Negotiable, depending on location and filming requirements.

Drone Regulations:

Yes – drones can be brought into Mozambique, but their use is strictly regulated.

Drone Importation Regulations:

  • Valid drone pilot license
  • Drone specifications (model, serial number, weight, technical details)
  • Proposed flight schedule
  • GPS coordinates of flight locations
  • Proposed flight time and altitude

Permit Issuance:

  • Permission is required from the Instituto Nacional de Aviação Civil (INAC), Mozambique’s national aviation authority.
  • INAC is responsible for issuing all drone permits and regulating drone activity in the country.

Timing:

Applications take approximately 2 weeks for approval.

Cost:

Permit fees range from $300 to $350.

Carnet Status:

  • Mozambique is not a Carnet country.
  • Carnet procedures do not apply here.

Mozambique’s authorities strictly enforce the new ETA rule:
No ETA = No Entry

To avoid travel disruptions:

  • Apply for your ETA at least 48 hours before departure.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
  • Carry printed or digital copies of your ETA and supporting documents.

Required Documents:

Since Mozambique does not accept ATA Carnets, customs clearance is required for all imported equipment.

Required Documentation:

  • Detailed list of all equipment entering Mozambique
  • Declared value of equipment

Issuing Organization:

Clearance is processed by Alfonsecas de Moçambique through a licensed clearance agent.

Timing:

Approx. 1.5 weeks to obtain permission Deposit refunds may take up to 6 months

Cost:

Even with ETA approval, travelers must pay an administrative fee of 650 MZN (≈ €9 / $10 USD) upon arrival. Payable in Mozambican Meticais or accepted foreign currencies. Failure to pay or present ETA approval may result in denied boarding or refusal of entry

General Overview:

Safe. Except parts of Cabo Delegado up north.

Security Requirements:

No security needed.

Rebates/Incentives:

No film rebate / incentive.

Contact our Local Team

Hoodlum Film Fixers

Meet Our Local Team

Name:
Milton - Moambique
Country:
Mozambique
Email:
africa@hoodlum.tv
Address:
Av. Lucas Luali 520, 3 Andar Esq, porta 7, Maputo 1102 Mozambique

Client Brief

Fill in our client brief and we’ll get back to you with everything you need to start filming in this region.

Services We Provide in Mozambique

Accommodation

Airport Protocol & On-Ground Support

Casting & Talent

Catering

Crew Sourcing

Customs Clearance

Drone & Aerial Permits

Drone & Drone Operator

Equipment Rentals

Film Permits

Line Producers & Production Management

Local Film Fixers

Locations / RECCE’s

Logistics

Rebates & Incentives

Research

Risk Management

Security

Set Dressing / Production Design

Transport & Vehicles

Visas & Work Permits

News from the Region

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Introduction

Mozambique, with its breathtaking coastlines, rich cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes, offers an incredible range of locations for international film and TV productions. From the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean to the vibrant city of Maputo and the untamed beauty of its national parks, Mozambique is the perfect destination for commercials, feature films, TV series, documentaries, and still photography.

At Hoodlum, we provide comprehensive film fixer services in Mozambique, managing every aspect of your production. Our expert team takes care of securing film permits, visa assistance, location scouting, crew sourcing, equipment rental, customs clearance, transportation, accommodation, and post-production services, ensuring a smooth shoot from start to finish.

Why Film here?

  • Stunning Natural Beauty – Mozambique boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, wildlife-rich national parks, and lush rainforests, offering a wide variety of filming opportunities.
  • Cultural Richness – With a blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab influences, Mozambique’s diverse heritage provides unique backdrops for storytelling.
  • Cost-Effective Production – Mozambique offers competitive rates for filming, making it an attractive location for productions seeking value without compromising quality.
  • Unspoiled Locations – Mozambique remains a hidden gem with few international productions, offering exclusive, untouched locations for your shoot.

Planning a shoot in Mozambique? Hoodlum ensures a seamless production process, managing all logistics so you can focus on your creative vision. Contact us today for expert production support in Mozambique.

Country Overview

A country in south-eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean

Bordering Countries:

Tanzania; Malawi; Zambia;  South Africa; Eswatini

Main Cities:

  • Maputo: The vibrant capital city, known for its rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Beira: A bustling port city and hub for trade and commerce.
  • Nampula: A thriving city in northern Mozambique, rich in culture and natural resources.
  • Tete: A city in western Mozambique
  • Quelimane: A historic city and former capital, with a rich cultural heritage.
  • Chimoio: A city in central Mozambique, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant markets.
  • Pemba: A stunning coastal city, popular for its beautiful beaches and water sports.

Local Languages:

Makhuwa; Changana; Nyanja; Ndau; Sena; Chwabo; Tswa

Local Currency:

Meticais – 1 Metical = .016 USD

Climate:

This region boasts a tropical to sub-tropical climate, characterized by two distinct seasons:

  • Cool and dry season (April – September): Mild temperatures and low humidity
  • Hot and humid season (October – March): High temperatures and high humidity

Visa Requirements

Mozambique visa requirements
Who Needs a Visa? South African citizens do not require a visa to enter.
Citizens of other foreign countries may obtain a visa at the airport or at an embassy in their country of origin

Visa application requirements
Airport: 650 meticais (approximately $10 USD) for the visa; proof of accommodation; film permit (if applicable)
Embassy: contact the embassy in your country of origin for specific requirements

Visa application timings
Airport: On arrival
Embassy: Maximum of 2 weeks

Vaccination requirements
Yellow fever vaccination card is required

Visa Application Link

International Crew Accreditation

Accreditation requirements
All foreign crew members require a temporary work permit to work

Application requirements
Mandatory documents: general filming permit; profile photo; CV/resume/portfolio; passport scan; estimated arrival and departure dates

Processing time
2-4 weeks

Accreditation fees
Approximately $180 per crew member (valid for 30 days)

General Film Permit

Permit issuing authority
National Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema (INAC)

Permit processing time
2 weeks

Application requirements
Mandatory documents include; film synopsis; list of international crew members; list of equipment, including serial numbers; budget for this region

Permit fees
1% of the budget to be spent in Mozambique
Minimum payment: 8,500 meticais (approximately $130 USD)

Private Locations

Location scouting and negotiation
Hoodlum will identify potential private locations that fit your filming needs and
negotiate with location owners or managers to secure permission to film

Location fees
Negotiable, depending on location and filming requirements

Drone Permit for Mozambique

Are drones allowed in Mozambique?
Yes

Drone importation regulations
Permission required from the National Aviation Institute (Instituto Nacional de Aviação)

Application requirements
Mandatory documents include; Pilot license; drone specifications; flight schedule; coordinates; time and height of flight

Permit processing time
2 weeks

Permit fees
$300 – $350 USD

Equipment customs clearance

Is Mozambique a Carnet country?
No

Customs clearance process
General process: Customs clearance is required for equipment imports

Required documents
Mandatory information includes: a list of equipment being imported; value of the equipment; clearance issuing authority

What organization issues the clearance?
Alfandegas de Moçambique (using a clearance agent)

Clearance timings
1.5 weeks to obtain permission, and up to 6 months to get the deposit back

Clearance fees
Cost: Calculated by the clearing agent based on the value of the equipment

Safety and Security in Mozambique

General safety
This region is generally a safe country, with low crime rates. Exceptions: some areas in Cabo Delgado province in the north are best avoided due to terrorist activity

Security requirements
No security measures are typically required for filming here