Introduction
Hoodlum Film Fixers offers premier film production support in Namibia, providing international production teams with seamless, on-the-ground services. With extensive expertise, we specialize in location scouting, permit facilitation, and connecting you with skilled local crews, ensuring your project progresses smoothly from start to finish.
This region, celebrated for its desert landscapes, coastal cities like Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, and the vibrant capital of Windhoek, is an extraordinary destination for filmmakers. Whether you’re working on a feature film, TV series, commercial, or documentary, Namibia’s diverse settings offer a unique canvas for your creative vision.
Hoodlum’s dedicated team in Namibia is your trusted partner for efficient production logistics. From managing permits to sourcing striking locations, we handle the details, so you can focus on your story.
Planning a shoot in Namibia? Let Hoodlum Film Fixers pave the way for a successful production. Contact us today and discover how we can make your Namibia film project a reality!
Country Overview
Nestled in Southern Africa, with its strategic location and unparalleled desert vistas, Namibia has become a sought-after destination for international film and TV productions, offering filmmakers an extraordinary canvas to bring their project to life.
Incentives:
Namibia does not currently offer film rebates or tax incentives.
Bordering Countries:
South Africa, Botswana, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Main Cities:
Windhoek (Capital), Swakopmund, Walvis Bay (Coastal Cities)
Local Languages:
English
Local Currency:
Namibian Dollar (NAD)
Climate:
- Extremely hot summers, especially in desert regions.
- Coastal areas (e.g., Swakopmund) experience cooler, misty, and windy conditions.
Visa Requirements
Work visas:
All crew and cast that will be on set must have a work visa. Namib Film apply on your behalf for a 3-month temporary work visa. This process takes about 15 working days, depending on the workload at Home Affairs, it can take up to 21 working days. The sooner we received requested documentation the sooner we can submit to prevent any delays. Attached the work visa application, power of attorney and instructions.
Work visas requirements:
A clear certified copy of your passport:
- Passport must be scanned and emailed (NO PHOTO will be accepted)
- Passport must be valid for 6 months and have empty pages in.
Work Visa Application form:
Each person must sign his own application – NO e- signatures. The signature must be the same as per your passport.
Power of Attorney
This document gives Namib Film the authority to apply on your behalf.
Work Visa:
All foreign cast and crew must obtain work visas.
Work Visas
All crew and cast that will be on set must have a work visa. Namib Film apply on your behalf for a 3-month temporary work visa. This process takes about 15 working days, depending on the workload at Home Affairs, it can take up to 21 working days. The sooner we received requested documentation the sooner we can submit to prevent any delays.
Work Visas instructions:
- A clear certified copy of your passport:
- Passport must be scanned and emailed (NO PHOTO will be accepted)
- Full passport page must be scanned (make sure NOT to cut off any parts)
- Certified signature and dates must be clear.
We print the certified passport and therefore need visible clear copies. - Passport must be valid for 6 months and have empty pages in.
Application form:
- Page 1, complete the full page
- Page 2 completes the following numbers:
- a-b: Filming in Namibia (specify if commercial, documentary)
- Namib Film, 62 Nathaniel Maxuilili Street, Swakopmund, +264 46 463371
- Namib Film, 62 Nathaniel Maxuilili Street, Swakopmund, +264 46 463371
- Please complete
- Please complete
- Fill in Filming
NB: Each person must sign his own application – NO e- signatures. The signature must be the same as per your passport.
Power of Attorney
Home Affairs requires a Power of Attorney letter from each visa applicant. Complete your details, sign, and witness the PRINCIPAL PART on page 2 on the left side.
NB: Do not fill in the agent details, this will be completed by a Namib Film representative.
Application Process:
- Submit work visa application, power of attorney letter, and certified passport copy.
- Applications are submitted on behalf of the client; no embassy visits required.
Processing Time:
Approximately 15 working days.
Cost:
NAD 1,100
Application Portal:
General Film Permit
Issuing Body:
Namibia Film Commission
Application Process:
Required forms are completed on behalf of the production.
Processing Time:
4 Working days.
Cost:
- NAD 2,500 – Documentary
- NAD 5,000 – Commercial
- NAD 7,500 – TV Series/Feature Film
NFC and MEFT permits:
NFC film permit
All Foreign productions must apply for a film permit at Namibia Film Commission (NFC) through a registered service provider. This process takes about 3 to 5 working days. This specific permit is needed for all other applications such as work visas and location permissions.
MEFT film permission:
Filming in a National Park such as Sandwich Harbour, Moon Landscape or Sossusvlei requires permission from Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. Once NFC permit has been granted, we can apply for MEFT permits. This process takes approximately 15 working days.
Film Permit
Al Foreign productions must apply for a film permit at NFC. This process takes about 3 to 5 working days. This specific permit is needed for all other applications such as work visas and location permissions.
MEFT Permission (Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism)
If you are filming in a National Park such as Namib Naukluft Park (Sossusvlei) we must apply at MEFT for filming permission. The process takes about 15 working days, depending on the workload at MEFT, it can take up to 21 working days. Drones are not allowed in National Parks, but special permission can be requested in certain areas, such as the dune belt in Dorob National Park.
We need the following information to apply for the permit from Namibia Film Commission (NFC) and Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) for filming permission in a National Park:
Production Information:
- Production Title
- Production Company
- Physical Address
- Tel number
- Email address
- Website
- Brief Synopsis (±1 paragraph)
- Date of arrival
- Date of Departure
- Number of foreign Crew/Cast/Client/Agency – Please attach names and titles of foreign crew
- Number of vehicles required in Namibia
- Name of Producer
- Exact filming locations
- Shooting dates in Namibia
- Production type (e.g. feature, commercial)
- Shooting format
- Production Wrap Date
- Principal language used
- Number of production days in Namibia
- Budget breakdown if possible
Private Locations
Schedule / Locations:
- If you intend in filming/photograph in a National Park
- Dates need to be as accurate as possible.
- Specify in detail what you want to film/photograph at the locations.
- GPS Coordinates of the locations if you have it.
- Is there a research permit, such as a non-Namibia based research permit or a university/college accreditation?
- Specify if drone will be used during filming. (No drones allowed in a National Park – we can submit a special request to apply for certain areas)
Permission Process:
Letter of request required for location access.
Costs:
- NAD 2,000 – NAD 7,500 (standard private locations).
- Up to NAD 25,000 for private institutions.
Drone Permit
Drone permit:
All foreign drone operators must register at Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This is a temporary registration for the production only. The operator must have a valid pilot licence / certificate of compliance from their country or origin. Also, a valid Third Party insurance that covers Namibia. To apply for the temporary registration, we submit the application forms for both the registration of the drone operator and drone, as well as airspace approval. This must be accompanied by the NFC permit, work visa, MEFT permit or other location permission. This process takes approx. 15 – 21 working days, after submission of all documents. Attached Zip folder with forms and instructions.
National Parks are a no fly zone with drones except for some areas: Dune-belt, Kodak dune (Near Sandwich Harbour) and Moon Landscape. Note that we still need to apply for special permission for these areas and it is not guaranteed.
Regulations:
Drones are prohibited in national parks. International operators must register with Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Drone Importation:
Permitted; suggested to import under a carnet.
Issuing Authority:
Namibia Civil Aviation Authority
Application Requirements:
Five forms to complete; production manager coordinates with the drone operator.
Processing Time:
21–28 working days.
Cost:
NAD 4,500
Equipment Customs Clearance
Carnet Country:
Yes
Process for Carnet Clearance:
Present and validate carnet documents at customs upon arrival and departure.
Documentation Requirements:
Detailed equipment list with serial numbers and values.
Issuing Authority:
Customs
Safety and Security
General Safety:
Safe and politically stable. Petty theft risks; lock vehicles and accommodations. Avoid carrying large sums of cash.
Security Recommendations:
Security guards advised for static sets or built locations when not shooting.
For additional guidance and on-ground assistance, Contact Hoodlum Film Fixers, we ensures seamless production support in Namibia.
Conclusion: Namibia – A Filmmaker’s Paradise
Namibia stands as one of the most visually captivating and film-friendly destinations in the world. From the dramatic sand dunes of the Namib Desert to the otherworldly landscapes of the Skeleton Coast and the diverse wildlife of Etosha National Park, the country offers a wealth of unique and breathtaking locations. Its modern infrastructure, skilled local crews, and government support for the film industry make it a practical choice for international productions.
Beyond its landscapes, Namibia’s cultural richness and historical significance provide endless storytelling opportunities. Filmmakers can explore themes of resilience, heritage, and human connection through the lens of Namibia’s diverse communities.
While the country does not yet offer formal film rebates or tax incentives, its cost-effective services, ease of permitting, and support from local authorities make it a worthwhile investment. This regions safety, political stability, and warm hospitality further enhance its appeal as a secure and welcoming destination for global film productions.
In this region, filmmakers not only find stunning backdrops but also experience the transformative power of working in a land were nature and culture merge seamlessly. With careful planning and collaboration with local partners, productions in Namibia can capture unparalleled beauty and authenticity, leaving audiences captivated and inspired.
