Colombia

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Colombia, 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 Colombia

Capital

Bogotá

Main Cities

Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Cúcuta, Ibagué, Villavicencio, Bucaramanga

Local Languages

Spanish

Currency

Colombian peso (COP)

Climate

Tropical

General Visa Requirements:

All foreign nationals intending to film in Colombia must obtain an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or eVISA prior to entry. For small productions with limited crew and equipment, a Tourist Visa is typically sufficient. For larger commercial productions, the Type V (Visitor) Visa is recommended, as it specifically covers audiovisual production activities. The Type V visa allows foreign personnel to enter Colombia temporarily for filming, photography, and production work.

Required Documents:

Applicants must prepare the following documentation for the visa application:

A valid passport with at least 3 months validity and blank pages.
A digital copy of the passport bio page.
A recent passport-style photograph.
A valid credit or debit card to pay the visa fee.
Proof of a return or onward flight ticket with a travel itinerary.
Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or residence in Colombia).
Proof of travel insurance covering the stay.

Sources: Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Colombian Film Commission Visa Guide.

Visa Application Process:

Applications for eVISA are submitted online through the official visa platform of the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For film crews applying under the Type V courtesy visa (audiovisual projects), a certification or authorization may be required from Proimágenes Colombia or the Ministry of Culture prior to visa submission.
Standard tourist eVISAs are typically processed within 24 hours.
Type V courtesy visas may take 5 to 10 business days depending on the documentation and project size.
For filming visas, it is recommended to begin the application process at least 2–4 weeks before the shoot to allow for project certification and visa processing.

Source: comisionfilmicacolombia.com, colombiavisa.com.co.

Processing Time:

Tourist eVisa: Approx. 24 hours & Type V courtesy visa: 5–10 business days (can vary based on project scope)

Cost:

Tourist Visa / eVisa: USD $100 & Type V Visa (audiovisual production) Visa study fee: USD $52 (approx.) Issuance fee: USD $170 (approx., varies by country)

Accreditation Requirements:

There are generally no specific health or entry requirements for crew members entering Colombia. However, visitors from countries that require a Visa must present travel insurance covering any potential medical expenses during their stay. In practice, this requirement is rarely enforced.

Equipment Entry and Customs Process

Equipment registration in the country of origin: Not required (proof of purchase is not mandatory).
Equipment list: Bring two printed copies of a detailed list including serial numbers, weights, and customs values.
Customs declaration: Equipment must be declared upon arrival in Colombia through the DIAN (Colombian Customs) process
Timing: No formal lead time is required for the equipment declaration, though it’s helpful for the local producer to have a copy of your list in advance.

Required Documents:

Register equipment in the country of origin.
Provide detailed equipment list (serial number, weight, customs value).
Declare equipment at entry — must answer “yes” to customs official to begin declaration process.
Declaration process can take several hours, especially with connecting flights.
For foreign audiovisual formats (series, music videos, video games, etc. — not feature films):
Must request Certification of Customs Procedures through the Colombian Film Commission.
Fee: 1 Colombian legal monthly minimum salary per application.
Instructions for Customs Certification.

Processing Time:

There are no fees associated with the customs declaration process. It’s free of charge — simply keep copies of your documentation for reference.

Cost:

The “Certification of Customs Procedures” for non-film audiovisual works (such as series or music videos) is no longer required. For reference, the current minimum monthly wage in Colombia is COP $1,423,600 (approximately USD $360).

Issuing Organization:

Colombia does not have a single central film permit office that issues all filming permits. Instead, permits are handled locally by the city or municipal film commission or government institutions in the location where shooting will take place. Read more about it on the film commissions website.
The Colombia Film Commission (ProImágenes / Comisión Fílmica Colombia) plays a facilitative and oversight role: it oversees national incentives, helps to coordinate, and issues certifications or “concepts” for audiovisual projects. However, it does not directly issue all local filming permits.
Once the full production brief, schedule, and project plan are prepared, the local producer or local production company typically handles direct applications with the relevant city or municipal authorities (film commissions, public works, cultural departments, etc.).

Required Documents:

The exact list of documents will differ by city, but commonly required items include:

Project synopsis, script, or letter of intent describing the filming production
Detailed shooting schedule (dates, times, location breakdowns)
Insurance policy covering liability, damages, accidents, etc.
Environmental or traffic/transport management plans when filming in sensitive or public spaces (e.g. streets, parks)
Permissions or authorizations from relevant local bodies (city hall, traffic department, police, cultural affairs)
For filming in national parks, protected areas, or archaeological sites: additional clearances from environmental authorities or heritage agencies
Local registration paperwork (e.g. tax registration, legal representative documentation) for the entity applying

Because the local film commission or municipal government sets the precise requirements, it is essential to request their checklists early in pre-production. Hoodlum Film Fixers Colombia will send you the required list when full brief is received.

Processing Time:

Film permit approvals in Colombia generally take 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the city and complexity of the production. Projects in public or protected spaces may require additional reviews, which can extend the timeline slightly, especially for large-scale shoots or those involving road closures.

Cost:

Basic filming permits typically start at around USD $150, but final costs vary by location, scale, and use of public spaces. Additional fees may apply for urgent processing, national parks, heritage sites, or logistical support from local authorities.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Location Permit Information:

Location permits in Colombia are managed through both national and local authorities, depending on the type of location. At the national level, the Ministry of Culture’s Directorate of Cinematography oversees general authorization for filming in the country. However, actual filming permits are usually issued locally by municipalities or city film commissions. For urban and public spaces like streets, plazas, and parks, production teams must coordinate directly with city hall or the local cultural department. This process typically involves submitting a filming schedule, traffic or street closure plans, proof of insurance, and, in some cases, coordination with police or municipal services.

Filming in protected natural areas such as national parks requires permits from Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia and usually includes environmental assessments and detailed management plans. For private properties, only a contract with the property owner is needed, though city notification may be required if public areas are affected. Filming at archaeological or heritage sites must be authorized by ICANH, and aerial or drone filming must be cleared by the Civil Aviation Authority (UAEAC), which involves submitting flight plans and drone registration.

Private Filming Location Information:

When filming on private property in Colombia, producers must secure written permission or a location agreement directly with the property owner or manager. Unlike public permits, this process is usually faster and more flexible, but it requires clear negotiations on pricing, usage terms, and responsibilities. Agreements typically outline the duration of the shoot, access hours, areas to be used, liability coverage, restoration of the location after filming, and any compensation or security deposits required.

Hoodlum Film Fixers will handle this aspect by taking the lead in scouting, approaching, and negotiating with private landowners. The team will ensure all agreements are formalized in writing to protect both the production and the owner. Negotiations will focus on securing competitive rates, defining clear terms for site access and use, and including clauses for damage liability and cleanup. By managing these discussions directly, Hoodlum will streamline the process, avoid last-minute complications, and maintain good relationships with local property owners—ensuring smooth and cost-effective shoots on private locations.

Location Scouting & Agreements:

A recce (short for reconnaissance) is a crucial part of the pre-production process, allowing the team to visit and assess potential filming locations before shoot day. This step ensures that all creative, technical, and logistical needs are fully understood in advance.

Hoodlum Film Fixers handles the recce process thoroughly and professionally. Our team conducts on-site visits to evaluate accessibility, lighting conditions, power sources, equipment setup areas, crew flow, and any potential restrictions. We also assess the surrounding environment to identify possible risks, noise issues, or permit requirements.

During the recce, we document everything through photos, videos, and layout notes, and coordinate with local authorities or property owners when needed. This allows the production team to make informed decisions, plan efficiently, and prevent costly delays on shoot days. Hoodlum ensures that every location is fully vetted and production-ready—saving time, minimizing risk, and keeping the project on schedule.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location permit processing time:

In urban locations, permit processing times generally range from 3 to 7 business days for standard shoots.
In national parks or sensitive natural areas, expect 7 to 15 business days or more for permit approval.

Location costs / Permitting Cost for locations:

Some services or fixers claim that basic film permits are often granted free of charge, depending on local regulation and impact.
However, for more disruptive shoots (street closures, use of public utilities, protected areas), additional fees, compensations, or community impact costs may be required. Hoodlum Film Fixers Colombia will be able to provide you with a full cost breakdown when locations have been chosen, and we have received a full project brief.

Drone Regulations:

Drones are legal in Colombia and regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority (UAEAC / Aerocivil). All operations must comply with national drone safety regulations under RAC 91. Drones weighing over 250 g must be registered before use, and flights must follow altitude limits, no-fly zones, and safety protocols. Special permissions are required for flights near airports, night operations, or beyond visual line of sight. Read this PDF document on Permit to Shoot or Take Aerial Photographs with Drones.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drones can be brought into Colombia through customs checkpoints, provided they are declared and comply with import rules. Batteries must meet airline safety standards, so it’s important to check airline policies before travel. Drones under 250 g are exempt from registration, while heavier units must be registered with the aviation authority. Read more on drone laws in Colombia here.

Permit Issuance:

Drone permits are issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (UAEAC / Aerocivil). Applications should be submitted at least 15 business days before the planned flight. Required documents include flight plans, drone specifications, pilot details, insurance, and a safety plan.

Timing:

Permit processing typically takes up to 15 business days depending on the complexity of the operation. It’s best to plan applications well in advance of the shoot.

Cost:

There is no fixed cost published for drone permits. Fees may vary depending on the nature of the flight, the level of risk, and location. Additional costs may apply for special authorizations or complex operations.

Carnet Status:

Colombia is not a participant in the ATA Carnet system for temporary importation of professional filming or demonstration equipment. Read this PDF Document on equipment customs clearance written by the film commission in Colombia.

Additional Notes & Context

Because Colombia is not an ATA Carnet country, flights of equipment are handled via temporary importation under special customs procedures.
Under Decree 1165 (2019), filming and audiovisual equipment imports benefit from preferential treatment: they may be temporarily admitted without full duties, provided you have film commission authorization and plan to re-export the gear.
Failure to re-export or comply with conditions may result in penalties, import duties, or confiscation by customs.

Required Documents:

To clear filming or production equipment through Colombian customs, you should prepare:

A detailed equipment list, including serial numbers and valuation of each item.
The authorization or certification from the Ministry of Culture / Colombian Film Commission (ProImágenes) or equivalent, confirming the project’s audiovisual status, especially for foreign productions.
Standard import/export documentation required by DIAN (customs), including import declaration, invoices, and supporting paperwork.

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance is handled by Colombian Customs / Immigration, under the National Directorate of Taxes and Customs (DIAN).
Additionally, for audiovisual imports, the Colombian Film Commission (ProImágenes / Comisión Fílmica Colombia) often liaises with customs to issue certifications for temporary import of production equipment.

Timing:

Customs clearance and related bureaucratic steps for equipment import typically take about 2 days, assuming all documentation is in order and there are no special inspections or hold-ups.

Cost:

The cost given in your image is USD $500. However, in practice, fees depend on the nature of the equipment, customs valuation, import duties (if any), and administrative charges by DIAN and local customs brokers.

General Overview:

Colombia is considered safe for film productions when working with an experienced local production partner and ensuring all permits and authorizations are in place. Major filming hubs such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena have strong infrastructure, established film commissions, and experienced fixers familiar with local regulations.

Understanding cultural nuances, building good relationships with local communities, and respecting local customs can significantly contribute to a smooth and secure shoot. Working with a trusted fixer or production company ensures proper coordination with local authorities, minimizing disruptions and risks on set.

Security Requirements:

While many filming locations in Colombia are secure, it is recommended to have dedicated production security for crew and equipment—particularly during shoots in crowded or high-traffic areas. Hoodlum coordinates with trusted local security providers to ensure controlled access, crowd management, and safe transportation of gear.

Night shoots, large-scale productions, or shoots in remote areas may require additional private security or police presence arranged in advance. Keeping a low profile, securing gear at all times, and ensuring vehicles and crew follow planned movement schedules are standard best practices.

Rebates/Incentives:

Standard Rebate

Applicable to: Movies and TV series

Rebate amount: ~57% (combined benefits)

Process:

You shoot in Colombia.
Present your expenses (usually within 3–6 months).
You receive a tax deduction certificate, which can be sold to another entity.

Timing: Takes 3–4 months to receive the government resolution approving the rebate.

Prepaid Rebate Option

Rebate amount: Around 33–34% prepaid.

Mechanism:

A private investor prepays the rebate amount.
That investor then collects the full tax benefit themselves.

Example:

If your production costs $200,000 but you only have $150,000,
The prepaid rebate can cover the shortfall so you can access the full budget upfront.

Advantages: Immediate access to funds.

Requirement: You must spend the entire budget to maintain compliance.

Costs: For a production around $50,000, you’ll need to budget $80,000–100,000 total, including:

Lawyer
Accountant
Admin costs
Initial fees

Eligibility and Structure

TV Productions

Do not need to be a co-production.
Foreign investors can directly invest and obtain the rebate.
Timing: Better to start at the beginning of the fiscal year when rebate funds are still available.
Limits: Subject to time and budget caps.

Film Co-Productions

Must be a Colombian co-production.
You’ll need a Colombian executive producer to handle rebate-related matters.
A Colombian film lawyer and FilmAmerica-type entity can formalize rights:
The Colombian partner only keeps credits, not revenue.
All revenue goes to the original producer.

Conclusion:

Prepaid rebate options are ideal for smaller productions needing upfront liquidity, while standard rebates offer higher returns for those who can wait.