Introduction
Hoodlum offers top-tier film fixer services in Eswatini, providing essential support to international film production teams. With extensive experience, we specialize in location scouting, permit acquisition, and sourcing skilled local crews to ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Eswatini, known for its unspoiled landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage, and compact yet diverse filming locations, is an excellent destination for filmmakers. Whether you’re working on a commercial, feature film, TV series, reality TV, or documentary, Hoodlum’s expert team on the ground is your trusted partner for efficient film production logistics and support.
Planning to film in Eswatini? Let Hoodlum handle the details—from permits to locations—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact Hoodlum today to discover how we can make your Eswatini film production a success.
Country Overview
Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, the Kingdom, formerly known as Swaziland, is a destination for filmmakers seeking diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a variety of stunning locations to enhance their storytelling. With its unspoiled natural beauty and vibrant traditions, Eswatini provides a unique and compact backdrop that captures the essence of Africa, making it an ideal location for diverse film productions.
Bordering Countries:
This region is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, bordered by South Africa to the north, south, and west, and by Mozambique to the east.
Main Cities:
Mbabane, Lobamba, Manzini, Hhohho, Big Bend, and Malkerns.
Local Languages:
SiSwati, Chichewa
Local Currency:
Swazi Lilangeni (SZL)
Climate:
Eswatini’s summer, its hottest and rainiest season, runs from mid-October to mid-April. Tropical thunderstorms are common during this time, particularly in the mountainous regions. Winter, the country’s other major season, begins in mid-April and continues until mid-October.
Visa Requirements
General requirements
Online Visa Application:
- Visa on Arrival:
Available for stays up to 30 days. - Visa Exemptions:
Citizens of most Commonwealth countries, the USA, Japan, most European Union countries, and certain other nations do not require a visa to enter Eswatini.
Note: Even if a visa is not required, travellers must carry specific documents that may need to be presented.
Refer to the link for a list of visa-exempt countries. If your country of origin is not listed, a visa is required: Eswatini Visa Guide
Required Documentation for Application
- A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date, with at least 2 blank pages.
- Proof of onward and return flights.
- Hotel booking confirmation.
- Documentation outlining the purpose of your travel, including:
- A company profile from the production company with a synopsis of the project, detailing what will be filmed in Eswatini.
- Letter of invitation.
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.
- Confirm with your airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa.
- Medical card and Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (if applicable).
Processing Time
Typically 1 to 2 weeks.
International crew accreditation
General Accreditation Requirements
Accreditation for international film crews is not required in Eswatini.
Recommended Documentation
While International Crew Accreditation is not mandatory in Eswatini, it is advised to keep the following documents/information available:
- A treatment outlining what will be filmed in Eswatini.
- Passport scans for each crew member.
- Visa scans for each crew member.
- A list of equipment entering Eswatini.
- The value of the equipment, along with serial numbers.
General Film Permit
Issuing Authority
The Ministry of ICT (Information, Communication and Technology) is responsible for issuing film permits.
Processing Time
Permit applications take approximately 5 to 10 working days (about 2 weeks).
Required Documentation
To apply for a film permit, you will need to provide the following:
- Passports for all crew members.
- Passport photos of each crew member.
- Filming dates.
- Filming locations in Eswatini.
- A brief description of the nature of the shoot.
- A detailed list of all equipment, including serial numbers.
- The value of the equipment.
- A letter of invitation.
Cost
$200 | 15% tax on the value of the equipment.
Drone Permit
Drone Regulations
Drone Importation Regulations
A drone importation certificate will be issued along with the film permit.
Issuing Authority
The Swaziland (Eswatini) Civil Aviation Authority (SWACAA) issues drone permits.
Required Documentation for Local Drone Application
To apply for a local drone permit, you will need to provide:
- Completed application form.
- 2 passport-sized photos.
- A covering letter from the production company.
- Original police clearance from the country of origin.
- Qualification certificate or pilot license.
- Medical certificate.
- Drone make and serial number.
- A synopsis of the shoot.
- Details of where the drone will be operated in Eswatini.
Required Documentation for Drone Importation
For drone importation, you must obtain an import license from SWACAA before entering Eswatini.
Processing Time
Approximately 2 weeks.
Cost
Drone permits are included with film permits upon request, and fees may range from $100 to $300.
Equipment Customs Clearance
Is Eswatini an ATA Carnet Country?
Yes, Eswatini is an ATA Carnet country.
General Process for Carnet Countries
- Submit an import request for filming equipment.
- Provide a detailed list of the filming equipment along with serial numbers.
- Include the value of the equipment.
Required Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance
- Passport of crew members.
- Stamped visa (valid for at least 6 months).
- Commercial invoice (for the import clearance process).
- Air waybill.
- Import request for filming equipment.
- Detailed list of filming equipment, including serial numbers.
- Value of the equipment.
Issuing Authority
Eswatini Airport Customs Clearance.
Processing Time
1 to 2 working days.
Cost
15% of the equipment’s value.
Safety and Security
A private security company, qualified to handle on-set security, is recommended
