Belarus

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Belarus, 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 Belarus

Capital

Minsk.

Main Cities

Minsk, Brest, Gomel, Grodno, Mogilev, Vitebsk.

Local Languages

Belarusian and Russian (both official).

Currency

Belarusian Ruble (BYN).

Climate

Humid continental

General Visa Requirements:

A work visa is required for foreign nationals filming or working on audiovisual productions in Belarus. This is commonly issued as a Type C short-term or Type D long-term work visa, depending on the length of stay. Visa-free entry of up to 30 days via Minsk National Airport does not permit filming or paid work.

Required Documents:

Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond the intended stay
Completed visa application form
One recent passport-sized photograph
Proof of visa fee payment
Official invitation letter issued by a registered Belarusian organization or production partner
Letter from the production company detailing:
- Film project and objectives
- Locations and shooting schedule
- List of crew members and equipment
Work authorization issued through the Belarusian host company
Proof of health insurance valid in Belarus
Customs declaration for professional equipment, if applicable

Visa Application Process:

Online application: https://mfa.gov.by/en/visa/oformlenie/

Processing Time:

Visa processing generally takes 7 to 15 working days. Express processing may be available in limited cases.

Cost:

Visa fees generally range from USD 60 to USD 120, depending on visa type and nationality.

Accreditation Requirements:

Foreign film crews must obtain official accreditation prior to filming. Accreditation is issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and/or the Ministry of Information of the Republic of Belarus.

Required Documents:

Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity
Completed accreditation application form
Official invitation from a Belarusian partner
Letter from the production company detailing:
- Film project and objectives
- Locations and shooting schedule
- List of crew members and equipment
Proof of health insurance
Script or detailed synopsis
Equipment list, including cameras, audio, and drones

Processing Time:

Accreditation processing generally takes 15 to 30 working days.

Cost:

Accreditation costs generally range from USD 150 to USD 300.

Issuing Organization:

Belarus has a centralized permitting process. Film permits are issued by National Film Studio Belarusfilm in coordination with the Ministry of Culture, as well as local authorities and security services where applicable.

Required Documents:

Film permit application
Full script or detailed treatment
Synopsis of 1 to 2 pages
Production schedule and shooting timeline
List of crew members and roles
Equipment list
Proof of insurance for crew and equipment
Financing confirmation
Location list and maps

Processing Time:

Film permit processing generally takes 15 to 25 working days.

Cost:

Film permit fees typically range from USD 500 to USD 1,200, depending on scope and locations.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private location access typically involves location research, site visits, feasibility checks, photography and documentation, negotiation with property owners, and a written location agreement.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location fees generally range from USD 50 to USD 300 and are negotiated directly with owners or municipalities.

Drone Regulations:

Drone filming is strictly regulated in Belarus. All drone operations require advance authorization. Operational restrictions apply near airports, government buildings, military facilities, borders, and strategic infrastructure. GPS signal restrictions may also apply. A licensed local drone operator is often required, and liability insurance is mandatory.