Gambia

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Gambia, 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 Gambia

Capital

Banjul (capital city)

Main Cities

Serekunda (largest city) Brikama (commercial centre) Bakau (tourist town)

Local Languages

Mandinka, Pulaar, Wolof

Currency

Gambian Dalasi

Climate

Dry Season Nov - May | Wet June - October

General Visa Requirements:

The Government of The Gambia requires visitors to obtain a visa prior to or upon arrival. Business visas are required; applications can be made at the nearest Gambian Embassy. Some countries are visa-exempt (e.g., UK passport holders do not require a visa if stay ≤ 28 days. Longer stays require a visa).

Required Documents:

Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Passport photographs
Letter of invitation
Hotel booking confirmation
Flight details
Vaccination certificate & Yellow Fever card

Visa Application Process:

Visa application link: http://www.myvisapassport.com/gambia-visa

Processing Time:

Standard visa application: 1-2 weeks (at embassies). Visa on arrival: issued instantly at airport.

Cost:

Varies depending on nationality and port of exit Visa on arrival: $100

Accreditation Requirements:

All international crews must obtain press accreditation / crew accreditation before filming.
Processed through the Ministry of Information, which coordinates with Immigration, Customs, Foreign Affairs, and Police.

Required Documents:

Passport copies of all crew
Project synopsis / filming purpose
Filming schedule & locations
Letter of guarantee from Hoodlum (acting as sponsor/guarantor)

Processing Time:

Processing Time: usually 5–10 working days.

Cost:

Press Accreditation (per person): around $150–$200

Issuing Organization:

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Information is responsible for issuing the permit, and Hoodlum Film Fixers can guide you through the process to ensure a smooth and successful shoot in The Gambia.

Required Documents:

A shoot synopsis, crew passports, and information on where the production will be aired. Additionally, a national identification document for the local fixer is required.

Processing Time:

The application process typically takes one week.

Cost:

Fee of $500. However, please note that costs may vary depending on the location or municipality.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

If filming on private property in The Gambia, crews must first secure written consent from the property owner or management; however, the Ministry of Information must still be informed of the shoot, and depending on the content, they may require a general filming permit even for private locations, as the Ministry coordinates with Immigration, Customs, Foreign Affairs, and Police.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Hoodlum will arrange and negotiate with private owners.

Drone Regulations:

To obtain a permit, applicants must provide project details, a drone application form from the fixer, and a national identity card. You may bring in your own drone, but clearance from the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority is required. Hoodlum’s local staff member coordinates with the Ministry of Information, who issue the final filming and drone permissions.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Hoodlum Film Fixers can assist with the application process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for filmmakers. By choosing to film in The Gambia, productions can benefit from the country’s stunning landscapes and drone-friendly regulations.

Permit Issuance:

The Gambia offers a welcoming environment for filmmakers, with local drones available for hire. However, importing drones requires a permit, issued by the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority.

Timing:

'1 week, provided all documentation (project details, crew list, schedule) is submitted in advance. Delays can occur if approvals are not coordinated properly, so it’s best to allow at least 7–10 days buffer ahead of the shoot.

Cost:

$500

Carnet Status:

Gambia is not a Carnet country.

Clearance Process for Non-Carnet Country:

Upon arrival, follow the queue to immigration and then customs
Present equipment list to customs officials
Fixer will have a representative on standby to ensure smooth clearance through customs and immigration

Required Documents:

Crew list with corresponding equipment list
Equipment values and serial numbers

Issuing Organization:

Ministry of Information

Timing:

Usually processed on arrival at the airport, provided all paperwork is ready and the fixer is present to liaise with Customs and Immigration. If advance notice is given (equipment list + project details shared ahead of time), the process is smoother and can be completed within the same day. Best practice: allow 1–2 days buffer in case of delays or additional queries.

Cost:

5% of equipment value

General Overview:

Gambia is considered a very safe country. Hoodlum’s staff provides on-ground security liaison, ensures crew safety at locations, and handles negotiations with authorities.

Security Requirements:

For large crews, one security personnel may be assigned as an additional precaution
However, security is generally not required due to the country’s safe environment