Kabul
Herat, Mazar-i-Sharif
Pashto and Dari
Afghan Afghani (AFN).
Hot & Humid
Applications are submitted through the Afghan Embassy/Consulate or via the official e-visa website. Hoodlum assists with selecting the correct visa, translating required documents into Arabic, and preparing sponsorship letters. In limited cases, certain visas may be granted on arrival, but this is not guaranteed and depends entirely on the discretion of immigration officers.
Afghanistan does not use a standalone crew accreditation system, but foreign film crews must comply with a combined process involving visa approval, filming permissions, work permits, and registration with the Ministry of Information and Culture.
Film-shooting permission is included within the work-permit process and is overseen by the Afghan Ministry of Information and Culture.
All requirements are integrated into the work-permit/visa package (project documentation, crew list, schedules, insurance, etc.).
Private locations are arranged through a local fixer who negotiates directly with property owners, secures permissions, handles local approvals, and ensures safe and smooth access. Logistics, local sensitivities, and security assessments are essential for all private-location filming.
Location costs cannot be confirmed until the production’s script, bio, and detailed requirements are reviewed, as fees depend on the type of location, owner conditions, and security/logistics needed.
Drone operations are tightly restricted. All aerial filming requires prior authorisation from the Afghan Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation and the National Security Council. Foreign drone operators must also comply with communication and import regulations overseen by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
The Afghan Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, specifically the General Directorate of Civil Aviation, is responsible for issuing drone permits in Afghanistan.
Drone-operation and import permits typically take 1–2 weeks after submission of all documents.
Drone-permit costs generally range from USD $500–$2,000, with additional customs fees and regulatory charges depending on the type of drone and operation.
Afghanistan is not an ATA Carnet country. Crews are strongly encouraged to rent local equipment wherever possible to avoid customs complications.
Customs processing is handled by the Afghanistan Customs Department under the Ministry of Finance.
Afghanistan offers a visually powerful and culturally rich filming environment, with landscapes and stories untouched by mainstream cinema. However, it is also one of the most sensitive and security-dependent filming destinations in the world. Stability varies between regions, and all productions must factor in security, logistics, and local support.
Productions should hire experienced and armed security personnel, ideally former military or police, and work closely with local authorities and security specialists. Detailed risk assessments, secure transport, and controlled movement are essential. A professional local fixer is mandatory for safe and legally compliant production.
Afghanistan does not currently offer any national film-rebate program, tax incentive, or financial incentive scheme for foreign productions.
Fill in our client brief and we’ll get back to you with everything you need to start filming in this region.
Hoodlum Film Fixers Afghanistan offers expert local fixer services, ensuring smooth and efficient support for international production teams. Our fixers are not just fixers; they are our in-country partners, providing invaluable local knowledge and hands-on expertise. They manage every detail of your shoot—from securing film permits and visas to location scouting, crew coordination, equipment rentals, customs clearance, transportation, accommodation, still photography, and post-production services.
Planning a shoot in Afghanistan? Let Hoodlum and our professional local fixers, who are trusted in-country partners, handle all the logistics—securing permits, managing visas, arranging equipment rentals, booking flights and accommodation, coordinating local transport, and overseeing post-production.
Afghanistan is a remarkable filming destination, offering a wide range of locations, from the towering peaks of the Hindu Kush mountains to the ancient ruins of Bamiyan. The country’s historical richness is reflected in places like the old city of Herat, with its stunning architecture, and the bustling streets of Kabul, where centuries of tradition meet modern life. Afghanistan’s landscapes also include vast deserts, rugged valleys, and serene lakes such as Band-e Amir, providing striking backdrops for film and television productions. The blend of historical landmarks, such as the Minaret of Jam, and natural beauty makes Afghanistan a compelling setting for international projects.
Afghanistan shares borders with six countries: Pakistan lies to the south and east, Iran to the west, Turkmenistan to the northwest, Uzbekistan directly to the north, Tajikistan to the northeast, and a narrow border with China in the far east.
Kabul, the capital and largest city, is the political, economic, and cultural heart of Afghanistan. Herat, in the west, is known for its historic architecture, artistic legacy, and proximity to Iran, making it a key center for trade and culture. Mazar-i-Sharif in the north is home to the iconic Blue Mosque and serves as a significant religious and commercial hub. Kandahar, in the south, plays a vital role in Afghanistan’s political history and agricultural economy.
Jalalabad, near the Khyber Pass, is a key link between Kabul and Pakistan, known for its gardens and warmer climate. Bamiyan, set in a highland valley, is renowned for its archaeological significance and dramatic mountain views. Faizabad, in the remote northeast, offers access to the Wakhan Corridor and showcases traditional life in the Badakhshan region.
Official languages are Pashto and Dari
Afghan Afghani (AFN).
The most suitable time to film in Afghanistan is during the spring and autumn months—April to June and September to early November—when the weather is generally mild, skies are clear, and road conditions are more favorable for travel and outdoor production.
Filming during the winter can be challenging in mountainous areas due to snow and limited accessibility, while the peak summer months (July and August) can bring extreme heat, particularly in the south and lowland regions. Careful seasonal planning helps ensure smooth and efficient production.
Filming visa requirements in Afghanistan
Foreign film crews must obtain a journalist or film visa to shoot in Afghanistan. This can be arranged through an Afghan embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country, or with the support of a local sponsor or production company in Afghanistan. Approval from the Ministry of Information and Culture is required.
Required documents for visa application:
Processing time:
Approximately 10 to 20 working days (2 to 4 weeks)
Afghan Embassies Worldwide (List by Country)
https://embassy-finder.com/afghanistan_embassies
(Use when directing crew to obtain visas from Afghan embassies or consulates.)
IATA Travel Centre – Visa & Entry Requirements
https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/
(Real-time visa requirements based on nationality.)
General accreditation requirements
To obtain crew accreditation in Afghanistan, production teams must submit specific documentation and register with the Afghan Ministry of Information and Culture. This includes a letter of introduction from the production company, a full crew list, and proof of liability insurance.
Afghanistan Ministry of Information and Culture
http://moic.gov.af/
(Official agency responsible for media oversight, film permits, and cultural affairs.)
Required information and documentation for application:
Timings:
Accreditation is typically processed within 7 to 10 working days after all documents are submitted.
General Film Permit
Issuing authority for film permits
Film permits in Afghanistan are issued by the Afghan Ministry of Information and Culture, through its Department of Cinematography.
Timings
Processing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks (10 to 20 working days) after submission of all required documents and payment of the permit fee.
Securing private film locations involves Hoodlum negotiating with location owners, obtaining the necessary permits and permissions, and ensuring that all logistical and administrative arrangements are in place for a smooth filming process.
The cost of using a private film location is determined on a case-by-case basis. Location owners or managers usually request a production bio with project details before providing a specific quote.
Drone regulations
In Afghanistan, drone operations are tightly controlled and require prior authorization from both the Afghan Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, and the National Security Council. Foreign operators must also comply with additional requirements.
Drone importation regulations
The importation of drones into Afghanistan is regulated by the Afghan Customs Department and requires a permit from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Certain types of drones may require additional approvals and are subject to specific restrictions.
Issuing authority for permits
The Afghan Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, specifically the General Directorate of Civil Aviation, is responsible for issuing drone permits in Afghanistan.
Timings
Processing typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks (10-20 working days) after submission of the required documents.
Cost
The estimated cost for a drone permit or importation is between $500 and $2,000, with additional fees for customs clearance and other regulatory requirements.
General process for non-Carnet country
In non-Carnet countries like Afghanistan, temporary importation of goods, including filming equipment, requires a cash deposit or bank guarantee to cover potential customs duties and taxes. This deposit is refundable upon the export of the goods.
Afghanistan Customs Department
http://www.customs.gov.af/
(For clearing film gear and drones through customs.)
ATA Carnet Info – Afghanistan (Not a Member)
https://www.atacarnet.com/carnet-countries
(Afghanistan is not a carnet country—temporary imports may require bonds or permits.)
Required information and documentation for equipment customs clearance
Film crews must provide the following documents for customs clearance in Afghanistan:
Issuing authority for clearance
Customs clearance in Afghanistan is issued by the Afghanistan Customs Department, under the Ministry of Finance.
Timings
Customs clearance typically takes around 3 to 5 working days.
Cost
The cost is typically between 2.5% and 10% of the value of the goods.
General Overview
When filming in Afghanistan, it is strongly advised to hire experienced and armed security personnel, such as former military or police officers. Additionally, collaborating closely with local authorities and security specialists is crucial to ensuring the safety of the cast and crew.
