Bali

Hoodlum provides premier film fixer services in Bali, offering comprehensive support to international film production teams. With a wealth of experience, we excel in location scouting, permit acquisition, and sourcing local crews, ensuring your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Bali

Capital

Denpasar

Main Cities

Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Canggu

Local Languages

Balinese

Currency

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Climate

Idal Filming May - September

General Visa Requirements:

Foreign film crews must obtain the D14 Journalist Visa (valid up to 60 days per visit). A local Indonesian production company is required to sponsor the visa and apply for all filming permits. Applications typically include passport, visa form, photos, film permit, sponsorship letter, detailed itinerary, equipment list, and proof of payment.

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
Completed visa application form
Recent passport photo
Travel itinerary or flight ticket
Proof of visa-fee payment
Invitation/sponsorship letter from an Indonesian production company
Project description, script, equipment list
Health insurance (recommended)
Company profile, bank statements, and list of locations (often requested)

Visa Application Process:

You can start your Visa Application here.

Processing Time:

Approximately 6 weeks. Apply 30–60 days before filming.

Cost:

Approx. USD 200

Accreditation Requirements:

Accreditation is processed as part of the visa application, supported by the local sponsor.

All crew must hold valid visas and film permits.

Required Documents:

Passport valid for 6 months
Company profile
Project description
Bank statements
Full list of locations
Script, equipment list
Sponsorship letter from Indonesian production company

Processing Time:

14–30 working days (Recommend applying 30–60 days before shooting.)

Cost:

Included in the visa/permit process.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits are issued by:

Indonesian Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy (Film Development Center), or
Local Tourism Office depending on location.

Required Documents:

Completed permit application form
Script & storyboard
Filming schedule
Location list & maps
Equipment list
Crew list
Proof of liability insurance

Processing Time:

14–30 working days (Apply 30–60 days prior.)

Cost:

Varies widely by location, duration, and production scale. (Reality TV rates not publicly standardised.)

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

A local fixer secures private locations (villas, resorts, temples) by negotiating with owners, arranging permits, coordinating logistics, and ensuring compliance with cultural and legal requirements.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location fees are fully negotiable and quoted only after the production shares:

Project synopsis
Specific filming requirements
Duration
Equipment needs

Drone Regulations:

Drone filming is tightly regulated and requires approvals from the Indonesian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Key requirements:

Permit from DGCA
Licensed local drone pilot (mandatory)
Max altitude: 400 ft
No flights within 5 km of airports
Maintain safe distances from people/structures
Highly regulated; local operator strongly recommended

Drone Importation Regulations:

Permit from Indonesian Ministry of Trade
Declaration with Directorate General of Customs
Duties/taxes applied to drone and accessories

Permit Issuance:

DGCA – Office of the Director of Airworthiness & Aircraft Operations

Timing:

7–14 working days.

Cost:

Varies based on production synopsis and drone type.
Costs must be confirmed with DGCA/AirNav.

Carnet Status:

Yes – Indonesia accepts ATA Carnets.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet
Commercial invoice
Packing list
Import permit or related licences (if required)

Issuing Organization:

Indonesian Customs & Excise Department (Bea Cukai)

Timing:

2–5 working days depending on shipment complexity and customs workload.

Cost:

N/A (Carnet avoids duties; only processing/admin costs may apply.)

General Overview:

Bali is a popular, film-friendly destination with strong cultural appeal, beautiful landscapes, and welcoming local communities. The government actively supports international productions.