Indonesia

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Indonesia, 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 Indonesia

Capital

Jakarta

Main Cities

Surabaya, Bandung, Medan, Yogyakarta, Makassar, Palembang

Local Languages

Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia)

Currency

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Climate

Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

All foreign film crews must first secure an approved National Film Permit before applying for an Indonesian e-Visa. Once the permit is granted, travellers can proceed with the online visa application process. Indonesia requires crew to provide full documentation, proof of accommodation, confirmed flights, a letter of invitation, and mandatory health certificates, including a Yellow Fever card (depending on region of origin). Applications must be submitted before arrival, and no crew member may enter Indonesia for filming on a tourist visa.

Required Documents:

Photocopies/scans of the applicant’s passport
Completed visa application form
Two passport-sized photographs
Flight tickets (arrival and departure)
Accommodation information/booking
A letter of invitation from a local entity
Visa fee
Medical card & Yellow Fever certificate (if applicable)

Visa Application Process:

Visa Application Link: Indonesia e-Visa

Processing Time:

Approximately 5 working days.

Cost:

Around $250 per person

Accreditation Requirements:

Indonesia does not require a separate international crew accreditation. Instead, accreditation is built directly into the National Film Permit application. All crew members and their details are listed in the permit, eliminating the need for any standalone accreditation process.

Required Documents:

N/A — included in the Film Permit process.

Processing Time:

N/A

Cost:

N/A

Issuing Organization:

The Film Development Centre is responsible for issuing film permits.

Required Documents:

Signed application form and statement letter
Resumes for applicants and crew members
Cover letter detailing the production purpose
Company establishment date and profile
Crew members’ full names and positions
Copies of passports for all crew members
Shooting schedules and location details
Scenario and synopsis of the film
List of shooting equipment and a re-exporting statement upon completion

Processing Time:

The official processing time for a National Film Permit is 8 weeks, although timelines may vary depending on nationality and government review.

Cost:

Fees range from $100 to $300.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private location access is negotiated directly between the fixer and property owner, based on the production’s storyline, needs, and logistical requirements.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Determined case-by-case between fixer and property owner according to filming budget.

Drone Regulations:

Drone use is permitted in Indonesia, but strict aviation rules must be followed. Productions are strongly advised to use a local licensed drone pilot with a local drone, as obtaining approval for foreign drones is complex. Operators must follow all Indonesian drone laws, including restrictions on flying near people, airports, military sites, temples, or above 150 meters without special permission.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drones can be imported, but crews must confirm airport policies in advance and ensure all equipment passes customs inspection.

Permit Issuance:

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) handles drone permits.

Timing:

Approximately 4 – 6 weeks.

Cost:

About $1500.

Carnet Status:

Yes — Indonesia accepts ATA Carnets. All equipment must be declared in the film permit application and at customs.

Required Documents:

Import request for filming equipment
Detailed equipment list with serial numbers
Equipment value declaration

Issuing Organization:

The Indonesia Customs Clearance Department.

Timing:

Typically 1 to 2 days.

Cost:

Ranges from 0% to 150% based on the customs value of the equipment.

General Overview:

Indonesia spans over 16,000 islands, including major regions such as Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Papua. Its diversity of geography, culture, and climate offers a wide range of filming environments but also demands thoughtful logistical planning.