Bangladesh

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Bangladesh, 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 Bangladesh

Capital

Dhaka

Main Cities

Chittagong, Khulna

Local Languages

Bengali (Bangla)

Currency

Bangladeshi Taka (BDT).

Climate

Tropical

General Visa Requirements:

Film crews require a J Visa (Journalist Visa) for filming. However, if the project content is non-sensitive, some productions may enter via Visitor Visa or Visa on Arrival (depending on nationality).

Required Documents:

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Invitation letter from local contact or production company (we provide)
  • Detailed project itinerary and synopsis (we assist)

Visa Application Process:

  • Valid passport
  • Completed visa application form
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Invitation letter from Bangladeshi sponsor
  • Letter of intent
  • Full itinerary
  • Equipment list
  • Crew list

Processing Time:

Processing time: 7-10 working days

Cost:

USD 20–100

Accreditation Requirements:

Streamline your Bangladesh film production with Hoodlum Film Fixers’ expert guidance on international crew accreditation.

Required Documents:

  • Valid passport (6+ months)
  • Film visa (J Visa)
  • Shooting permit (Bangladesh Film Censor Board)
  • Location permits
  • Crew list (with roles & passport details)
  • Equipment list
  • Full itinerary & shooting schedule
  • Invitation letter from local sponsor
  • Letter of intent
  • Proof of financial solvency (bank statement or production letter)

Processing Time:

14–21 working days

Cost:

USD 20–50 per person

Issuing Organization:

Bangladesh Film Certification Board (BFCB)

Required Documents:

  • Passport copies
  • Completed application form
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Introduction/intent letter
  • Crew details
  • Equipment list
  • Script & storyboard
  • Location permits
  • Shooting schedule
  • Proof of financial solvency

Processing Time:

20–30 working days

Cost:

USD 50–200

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

  • Location scouting with fixer
  • Contact location owner and negotiate fees
  • Conduct recce visit
  • Finalise script & storyboard
  • Submit required documents to BFCB
  • Secure written permission from the property owner

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location fees vary; film permit fees typically USD 50–200 depending on location.

Drone Regulations:

  • Permission required from Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB)
  • Registration mandatory for drones >250g
  • Age requirement: 18–65
  • Licensed drone pilot required for commercial filming
  • Strict flight rules apply (controlled airspace, altitude limits)

Drone Importation Regulations:

  • Import licence (Ministry of Commerce)
  • Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) clearance
  • CAAB clearance
  • Customs declaration

Permit Issuance:

CAAB – Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh

Timing:

7–15 working days

Cost:

USD 60–600 depending on drone type and regulatory requirements.

Carnet Status:

Yes – Bangladesh accepts ATA Carnets.

Required Documents:

  • ATA Carnet (if used)
  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • AWB/Bill of Lading
  • Certificate of origin
  • Film permit (BFCB)
  • Location permits
  • Crew list
  • Equipment list with serial numbers
  • Customs Declaration Form

Issuing Organization:

Bangladesh Customs Authority

Timing:

Clearance time: 1-3 working days

Cost:

0-25% of equipment value (temporary import: 0-5%)

General Overview:

Bangladesh offers a rich cultural landscape but requires careful planning.
Key recommendations:

Use an experienced local fixer

  • Employ security escorts for sensitive areas
  • Conduct site safety checks
  • Ensure all permits are in place
  • Provide crew safety briefings
  • Have emergency and evacuation plans
  • Respect cultural norms and dress modestly
  • Be vigilant in crowded urban areas

Security Requirements:

  • Armed guards for high-risk or sensitive shooting zones
  • Vehicle escorts or secure transportation
  • On-site security for locations and equipment
  • Accommodation with strong security measures

Rebates/Incentives:

Reality TV Incentives

  • 15% rebate, capped at BDT 30 lakh (~USD 36,000)
  • Additional 5% rebate for productions showcasing Bangladeshi culture/heritage

Meet our Local Team

Bangladesh

Riton

Bangladesh - Riton

Riton

Client Brief

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

Selected Work by Our Local Partners in Asia
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Services We Provide in Bangladesh

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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