Ukraine

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Ukraine, 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 Ukraine

Capital

Kyiv.

Main Cities

Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, Dnipro, Lviv.

Local Languages

Ukrainian (official); Russian widely spoken.

Currency

Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH).

Climate

Mostly temperate continental

General Visa Requirements:

Travelers need a visa to visit Ukraine for business or tourism. A paper visa (sticker or stamp) must be obtained in advance from a Ukrainian embassy, consulate, or visa center before travel.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Health insurance with coverage of at least €30,000
Proof of sufficient funds for the stay
Arrival and departure airline tickets
Detailed hotel accommodation information
Trip itinerary

Visa Application Process:

Apply online or check details at:

Processing Time:

Up to 1 month.

Cost:

Approximately $150.

Accreditation Requirements:

Journalists and film crew members may need accreditation from relevant Ukrainian authorities:

Journalists must represent a media outlet and provide a press ID.
Freelancers can seek accreditation through a Ukrainian media partner.
For Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) access, a press card is required.

Required Documents:

Letter of request from the media or production company
Media ID or press credentials
Journalist or crew passports
Completed application form
Passport photos
Production company profile
Filming synopsis
Equipment list with serial numbers
Visa scans for all crew members

Applications for AFU press cards are submitted to the Ministry of Defence.

Processing Time:

Approximately 15 days for AFU press cards.

Cost:

Between $150 and $350, depending on requirements.

Issuing Organization:

Varies by shoot location and schedule—may involve city offices, military authorities, or other local agencies.

Required Documents:

Shoot synopsis
Production company profile
Passport scans
One passport photo per crew member
Visa scans for each crew member
Detailed gear list with serial numbers

Processing Time:

Approximately 10–14 working days.

Cost:

From around $500, depending on location and scope.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

A local fixer typically negotiates with property owners, secures permissions, and finalizes terms.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Negotiated directly with the property owner.

Drone Regulations:

In addition to standard filming permits, permission is required from the military administration.
A military press officer may be required on-site to ensure filming follows approved plans.
Flight times and dates may be modified by the military, and certain locations (e.g., power plants, military installations) may be restricted.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drone regulations can change frequently. Drones are considered dual-use (civil and military) items and may not be allowed to enter Ukraine. Hiring a local drone team is recommended.

Permit Issuance:

Ministry of Defence.

Timing:

Approximately 15 days.

Cost:

Drones up to 2 kg: about $55–$110
Drones 2–5 kg: about $110–$220
Drones 5–10 kg: about $220–$440
Drones over 10 kg: about $440–$880

Carnet Status:

Ukraine accepts ATA Carnet.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet (copy to be shared with local fixer)

Issuing Organization:

Ukrainian Customs authorities.

Timing:

1–2 working days.

Cost:

Approximately 3.6% of filming equipment value.

General Overview:

Safety depends on the current political and military situation. Only certain areas are considered safe at any given time, and conditions can change quickly.