Syria

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Syria, 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 Syria

Capital

Damascus

Main Cities

Aleppo, Homs, Hama, Latakia

Local Languages

Arabic (official), Kurdish, Armenian, Aramaic

Currency

Syrian Pound (SYP)

Climate

Arid and semi-arid

General Visa Requirements:

Film crews planning to visit Syria must secure a special filming permit from the Syrian Ministry of Information in addition to obtaining a standard visa. Visas can be acquired through the Syrian embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.

Required Documents:

A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
A completed visa application form.
An official invitation letter issued by the Syrian Ministry of Information.
Film script and synopsis.
A detailed crew list.
Proof of insurance and project financing.

Visa Application Process:

https://www.visahq.com/syria/

Processing Time:

Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks due to the need for multiple approvals, including clearance from the Ministry of Information.

Cost:

Visa fees range from $33 to $100 USD, depending on the type and duration. Additional charges may apply for expedited processing or special filming permits.

Accreditation Requirements:

Film crews must obtain accreditation from the Syrian Ministry of Information before filming. This process involves submitting an application, providing the necessary documentation, and receiving official approval from the Ministry.

Required Documents:

Applicants are typically required to submit:
A copy of the applicant’s passport.
Film script and synopsis.
Detailed crew list.
Equipment inventory.
A formal letter detailing the purpose and scope of the project.

Processing Time:

Accreditation processing usually takes 2–4 weeks. However, timelines may vary based on the complexity of the project and the Ministry’s approval process.

Cost:

Accreditation fees range from $500 to $2,000 USD, influenced by factors such as the project type, duration, and scope.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits in Syria are issued by the Syrian Ministry of Information, specifically through its Audiovisual Department.

Obtaining a film permit generally takes 4–6 weeks. However, the timeline may vary depending on the project’s scope and the Ministry’s approval process.

Required Documents:

A copy of each crew member’s passport.
Film script and synopsis.
Detailed crew list.
Equipment inventory.
Location plans and shooting schedule.
A formal letter outlining the project’s purpose and scope.

Processing Time:

Not available.

Cost:

Film permit fees typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 USD, depending on factors such as the project’s type, filming locations, and duration.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Securing a private filming location in Syria involves the Fixer acting as an intermediary between the film crew and the property owner. The Fixer will negotiate terms, obtain necessary permits, and ensure all local regulations are followed to facilitate a smooth filming process.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

The cost for using a private location is negotiated directly between the Fixer and the property owner. This negotiation typically begins once the film production team submits a detailed schedule, including specific filming dates and times.

Drone Regulations:

Film crews in Syria must obtain a special permit from the Syrian Ministry of Defense to operate drones for filming purposes. They must also comply with strict regulations and guidelines set by the Ministry.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Film crews importing drones into Syria must secure a special permit from the Syrian Customs Authority and the Ministry of Telecommunications. Additionally, they must declare the drone’s specifications, value, and intended purpose.

Permit Issuance:

The Syrian Ministry of Defence, through the General Authority for Civil Aviation, is responsible for issuing drone permits in Syria.

Timing:

Drone permit processing in Syria typically takes 2-4 weeks, though this may vary depending on the complexity of the application and the approval process.

Cost:

Drone permit costs in Syria generally range from $500 to $2,000 USD, depending on the type of permit, duration of filming, and location.

Carnet Status:

Yes, Syria is a Carnet country.

General Process for Carnet Country

Film crews can obtain an ATA Carnet from their home country, which they present to customs upon arrival. This allows for duty-free and tax-free temporary importation of film equipment, including drones.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet
Commercial invoice
Packing list
Bill of lading
Certificate of origin
Customs declaration form
Permit from the Syrian Ministry of Information
Detailed equipment list

Issuing Organization:

The Syrian Customs Authority, under the Syrian Ministry of Finance, handles customs clearance for film crews in Syria.

Timing:

Customs clearance for film crews typically takes 2-5 working days, depending on factors such as shipment complexity and documentation accuracy.

Cost:

The cost of customs clearance ranges from $200 to $1,000 USD, depending on the type and value of equipment, shipment complexity, and whether a customs broker or agent is used.

General Overview:

International film productions should consider robust security protocols, including armed escorts, thorough risk assessments, secure lodging, armoured vehicles, and close protection officers, to effectively manage potential risks.