Do I need a visa to film?

Many nationalities can enter visa-free, but filming documentation must be carried. Some productions may require additional approvals depending on subject matter.

How long do film permits take?

On average, approvals take 2–4 weeks. Complex or restricted locations may require additional time.

Drone operations require permission. Foreign pilots must work with licensed local operators.

Does this country accept carnets?

No. Equipment must be declared upon entry and re-exported on departure.

Is this country suitable for large productions?

Yes, with appropriate planning and dedicated local support.

Are private locations easy to access?

Many private resorts and estates allow filming, but rates and conditions vary. Fixers negotiate these on your behalf.

Bermuda

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Bermuda, 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 Bermuda

Capital

Hamilton

Main Cities

Hamilton St. George’s Somerset Village Flatts Village Tucker’s Town

Local Languages

English (official) Bermudian English dialect widely spoken

Currency

Bermudian Dollar (BMD)

Climate

Subtropical maritime

General Visa Requirements:

Most foreign crew can enter Bermuda visa-free depending on nationality, but all foreign personnel must still obtain the appropriate work permit to film legally. A film permit cannot be issued without immigration clearance. Entry requires a valid passport, confirmed accommodation, and approval to film from the Bermuda Tourism Authority (Film Commission).

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Completed immigration/entry documentation
Production company letter describing project
Full crew list (names, roles, nationalities)
Equipment list with serial numbers & values
Filming schedule & location list
Local fixer or Bermudian partner details
Return/onward tickets & accommodation confirmation

Visa Application Process:

https://www.gov.bm/department/immigration

Processing Time:

3–4 weeks recommended. Immigration and filming approval must be granted before arrival.

Cost:

Work permit fees vary depending on production size. Costs are set by Bermuda Department of Immigration.

Accreditation Requirements:

Bermuda does not operate a separate “crew accreditation” system. Accreditation is incorporated into the filming approval + temporary work permit process. All crew must be listed in the production application.

Required Documents:

Passport scans for all crew
Full crew list with roles
Production company letter
Filming schedule
Equipment list
Proof of liability insurance

Processing Time:

Included in permit and work-permit processing.

Cost:

Included in work-permit fees.

Issuing Organization:

Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) – Film Commission Division.

Required Documents:

Completed film permit application
Script or filming outline
Production company profile
Shooting schedule & daily breakdown
Location list with maps/diagrams
Crew list + passport copies
Equipment list (especially drones, lighting, marine gear)
Public liability insurance
Risk assessment (required for stunts, marine shoots, or public-impact scenes)
Traffic management plan (if filming on roads)

Processing Time:

2–4 weeks depending on the scope of the production and supporting documents.

Cost:

Permit is free. Immigration/work-permit fees still apply.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Your fixer negotiates directly with property owners. Private locations require written permission and must be declared in the BTA filming application. Some locations may require additional government approval.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Based on negotiations with property owners and determined after reviewing production requirements.

Drone Regulations:

Drone use in Bermuda is regulated and restricted. Flights cannot occur near airports, military sites, prisons, government buildings, or within no-fly zones. All drone activity for filming must be reviewed and approved by the Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) in coordination with the Film Commission.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drones may require additional customs inspection on arrival. Approval must be requested in advance.

Permit Issuance:

Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA)

Timing:

2–3 weeks

Cost:

Determined by BCAA depending on operation type.

Carnet Status:

Bermuda does not officially list ATA Carnet acceptance for productions. Equipment must be pre-declared to customs.

Temporary import approval is coordinated through the Bermuda Customs Department once the equipment list is submitted through the Film Commission.

Required Documents:

Detailed equipment list
Serial numbers and values
Production company letter
Travel details
Filming approval confirmation

Issuing Organization:

Bermuda Customs Department

Timing:

1–3 days if documents are submitted in advance.

Cost:

Varies depending on temporary import requirements. Some productions may be asked to provide a refundable bond.

General Overview:

Bermuda is one of the safest filming destinations in the Atlantic. The island has low crime, excellent emergency services, and strong government support for international productions. Infrastructure is modern and reliable.