Singapore

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Singapore, 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 Singapore

Capital

Singapore City

Main Cities

Bedok, Jurong West, Tampines, Woodlands, Sengkang, Pasir Ris

Local Languages

English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil

Currency

Singaporean Dollar (SGD)

Climate

Tropical Rainforest

General Visa Requirements:

Most travelers need to apply for an e-visa before entering Singapore. This online process is efficient and accessible for travelers.

Required Documents:

A passport valid for at least 6 months.
Recent passport-size photographs.
Hotel booking confirmation.
Medical certificates, including a Yellow Fever Certificate if applicable

Visa Application Process:

You can apply for visas and find detailed information on Singapore’s official immigration website: Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority.

Processing Time:

Visa processing typically takes between 7 to 10 working days, although it can take up to 2 weeks depending on the volume of applications.

Cost:

Single-entry Singapore Visa: S$30 (approximately USD 22). Multiple Journey Visa: S$90 (approximately USD 66). Short-Term Visit Pass Extension: S$40 (approximately USD 29). Online Visa (processed within 30 minutes): USD 91.99.

Accreditation Requirements:

Film crew accreditation and film permits are combined in Singapore. Work permits and visas for skilled professionals are handled together, and crew members are listed in detail on the permit.

Required Documents:

Production company profile.
Script of the project being filmed.
Passport scans and photos of all crew members.
Visa scans.
Equipment list with serial numbers.

Processing Time:

Accreditation takes approximately 2 weeks.

Cost:

Accreditation is typically bundled with film permit costs.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits are issued based on the project’s scale and location. Small-scale projects, such as B-roll filming, may not require a permit unless they involve public landmarks or spaces. For larger projects, especially those that require public space closures, permits must be obtained from local authorities.

Required Documents:

Detailed shoot synopsis.
Production company profile.
Passport scans of crew members.
List of equipment being brought into Singapore.

Processing Time:

Permit processing can take between 2 weeks to a month, depending on the complexity and location of the shoot.

Cost:

Small projects (interviews, testimonials): USD 2500. Medium-scale productions (company profiles, factory tours): USD 4000. Large-scale productions (brand stories, events, live broadcasts): USD 8500

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private locations can be arranged through a local fixer who negotiates directly with property owners. Costs are negotiated on a case-by-case basis.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Private locations can be arranged through a local fixer who negotiates directly with property owners. Costs are negotiated on a case-by-case basis.

Drone Regulations:

Flying a drone in Singapore is legal, but operators must comply with the country’s drone regulations. Permits are not required for drones weighing less than 7 kilograms. However, permits are mandatory for heavier drones or those flown above 60 meters or near airports.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Company letterhead with full details of the operation area.
Drone make and serial number.
Drone operator license.

Permit Issuance:

Permits are issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).

Timing:

Permit processing usually takes 2 to 3 weeks.

Cost:

One drone model: USD 600.
Additional drone models: USD 400 each.

Carnet Status:

Singapore is a Carnet country, which simplifies the import of professional filming equipment.

Required Documents:

Carnet documents, including detailed lists of equipment and serial numbers, are required for smooth customs processing.

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance is handled at Singapore’s airport and usually takes less than 24 hours.

Timing:

Custom duties are exempt on most goods, except for certain types of alcohol. All goods are subject to an 8% GST.

Cost:

Custom duties are exempt on most goods, except for certain types of alcohol. All goods are subject to an 8% GST.

General Overview:

Singapore is ranked among the safest countries globally, and general on-site security is recommended for film productions.

Security Requirements:

Singapore is ranked among the safest countries globally, and general on-site security is recommended for film productions.

Rebates/Incentives:

Singapore provides a robust suite of financial incentives for film, TV, and post-production projects through agencies like the Media Development Authority (MDA). These include:

Singapore Film Rebate:
40% cash rebate on qualifying production expenses, with an additional 10% grant available for subsequent projects that utilize local resources.
Singapore On-screen Fund:
Up to 30% of qualifying costs can be claimed, capped at S$10 million. Supports productions showcasing Singapore to global audiences.
International Co-Production Fund:
Up to 50% of qualifying expenses can be claimed, capped at S$30 million. Encourages collaboration between Singaporean and foreign production companies.
Virtual Production Innovation Fund:
Capped at S$25 million, supports innovation in virtual production technologies.