Introduction
Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Barbados, facilitating international productions with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, and connecting production teams with local talent and crew.
Let Hoodlum handle the complex logistics of filming in Barbados—from obtaining the necessary permits to scouting prime locations—so you can focus on your creative work. Contact Hoodlum today to get started on your production.
Film Fixer Services in Barbados
At Hoodlum, we specialize in providing top-notch film fixer services in this region, catering to the unique needs of international film productions. Our comprehensive range of services ensures a seamless and successful filming experience in this stunning Caribbean Island.
Our Expert Services
- Location Scouting: We’ll help you find the perfect locations for your production, leveraging our extensive knowledge of Barbados’ diverse landscapes and hidden gems.
- Permitting and Licensing: Our team will handle all necessary permits and licenses, ensuring compliance with local regulations and avoiding any potential delays.
- Equipment Clearance and Sourcing: We’ll take care of clearing your film equipment through customs and can also source gear locally, saving you time and hassle.
- Visa Applications and Travel Arrangements: Our experts will assist with visa applications, transportation, and driver arrangements, making it easy for your team to get to and around Barbados.
- Accommodation Referrals: We’ll provide recommendations for comfortable and convenient accommodations, ensuring your team feels at home during their stay.
- Production Catering: Our team will arrange for delicious and convenient catering options, keeping your crew energized and focused throughout the production.
- Local Talent and Crew: We’ll connect you with the best local talent and crew, ensuring that your production benefits from the island’s rich creative resources.
Why Choose Barbados?
Located in the heart of the Caribbean, this region offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and modern infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for film productions.
- Diverse Landscapes: From pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush gardens and historic architecture, Barbados offers a wide range of diverse landscapes to suit any film production.
- Favorable Climate: With a tropical savanna climate, Barbados enjoys mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it an ideal location for outdoor filming.
- Well-Developed Infrastructure: Barbados has a well-developed infrastructure, including modern airports, seaports, and transportation systems, making it easy to import equipment and transport crew members.
- English-Speaking Population: As an English-speaking country, Barbados offers a convenient and hassle-free experience for international film crews.
- Supportive Government: The Barbadian government is supportive of film production
Visa Requirements for Film Crews
General Requirements
Visa requirements for film crews in this region are relatively straightforward. Most nationalities can enter visa-free for stays of 30 to 180 days, depending on the passport. However, visa requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photos (2-3)
- Proof of payment for visa application fee
- Invitation letter from local service producer or fixer
- Proof of affiliation with a film company (e.g., company ID, contract)
- Detailed itinerary and shooting schedule
- List of equipment and crew members
Timings and Costs
Processing time:
2-4 weeks
Cost:
$107
International Crew Accreditation
General Accreditation Requirements
- Film Permit: Required for all film productions in Barbados.
- Work Permit/Visa: Required for non-resident film crew members.
- Carnet: Required for equipment importation.
Required Documents
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.
- Completed Application Form: Provided by the Barbados Film Commission or Immigration Department.
- Proof of Employment or Contract: Letter from the production company or employer.
- Proof of Qualifications and Experience: Resume, CV, or certificates.
- Medical Insurance: Proof of coverage for the duration of stay.
- Police Certificate of Character: Required for some nationalities.
Timings and Costs
Apply for accreditation at least 6-8 weeks before filming.
Cost
The Barbados Accreditation Council charges $70 for verifying the credibility of an institution or program. The cost of crew accreditation in Barbados cannot be explicitly stated. For film crew accreditation, you’ll likely need to contact the Barbados Film Commission or the Immigration Department directly to inquire about the costs associated with obtaining a film permit, work permit, or visa.
General Film Permit
Issuing Organization
Barbados Film Commission (BFC)
Timings
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form: Provided by the Barbados Film Commission.
- Script and Storyboard: Copy of the film script and storyboard.
- Location Schedule: Detailed schedule of filming locations.
- Crew List: Names, nationalities, and roles of all crew members.
- Equipment List: Inventory of equipment to be brought into Barbados.
- Proof of Insurance: Liability insurance coverage for the production.
- Payment of Applicable Fees: Film permit fees.
Cost
$500-$2,000
Private Locations
General Process
- Identify potential private locations with the Barbados Film Commission or local location managers.
- Conduct site visits to assess feasibility.
- Obtain contact information for location owners.
- Negotiate location fees and terms.
Cost
Location Fee Factors:
- Size and complexity of location
- Duration of filming
- Time of year (peak season: Dec-Apr)
- Number of crew and equipment
Drone Permit
Drone Regulations
- Obtain approval from the Barbados Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) prior to drone operations.
- Register drones with the BCAA.
- Ensure drone pilots hold a valid Remote Pilot Certificate.
Drone Importation Regulations
- Obtain a Temporary Import Permit from Barbados Customs.
- Provide Commercial Invoice and Certificate of Origin.
- Pay applicable duties and taxes (0-20%).
Issuing Organization
Barbados Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA)
Required Documents for Local Drone
- Completed Application Form: BCAA Drone Application Form.
- Proof of Identity: Passport, ID card
- Drone Registration Certificate: Proof of drone registration with BCAA.
- Remote Pilot Certificate: Proof of remote pilot certification.
- Drone Specifications: Make, model, weight, and technical specifications.
- Liability Insurance: Proof of liability insurance covering drone operations.
Required Documents for Drone Importation
- Commercial Invoice: Detailed invoice for drone equipment.
- Certificate of Origin: Proof of drone manufacturer’s country of origin.
- Packing List: Detailed list of drone equipment and accessories.
Timings and Costs
Processing time:
3-5 working days
Cost:
$400-$1,300
Film equipment Customs Clearance
Overview
Barbados is a Carnet country, making it easier for film crews to bring in equipment temporarily. Here’s a step-by-step guide to equipment customs clearance in Barbados:
General Process for Carnet Country
- Contact national Carnet issuing organization: Reach out to your country’s Carnet issuing organization (e.g., USCIB in the USA) to obtain a Carnet.
- Provide required documents: Submit necessary documents, such as commercial invoices and packing lists.
- Temporary use only: Ensure that goods are for temporary use, such as film equipment.
Required Documents for Customs Clearance
- Commercial Invoice: A detailed invoice with goods description, value, and country of origin.
- Bill of Lading: A shipping document outlining goods, shipper, and consignee.
- Packing List: A detailed list of packaged goods.
- Certificate of Origin: Proof of goods’ country of origin.
- Customs Declaration Form (C82): A completed form for importation.
Issuing Organization and Timings
Issuing Organization:
Barbados Customs and Excise Department
Timings:
2-4 hours
Costs
$50-$500
Film Rebates and Tax Incentives
There are currently no film rebates but productions costs are relatively inexpensive
Safety and Security
Overview
Barbados welcomes international film crews and offers a favorable environment for filming. Here are some safety and security considerations:
General In-Country Overview
- Tropical location: Barbados offers a unique tropical setting for filming.
- Tax incentives: Enjoy a 40% rebate, no VAT, and income tax exemption.
- Well-developed infrastructure: Barbados has a well-developed infrastructure to support film productions.
- English-speaking population: Communication is easy with an English-speaking population.
- Supportive government: The Barbadian government is supportive of film productions.
Security Measures
- Awareness of petty theft: Take necessary precautions to secure equipment and valuables.
- Secure equipment/valuables: Use reputable local fixers/crew and hire local security personnel for on-set monitoring.
- Register with the Barbados Film Commission: Register your production with the Barbados Film Commission.
- Liaise with local authorities: Work closely with local authorities to ensure a smooth production.
- Consider private security services: Consider hiring private security services for high-value productions.
- Basic personal safety precautions: Avoid solo nighttime travel and use licensed transportation.