Eritrea

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Eritrea, 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 Eritrea

Capital

Asmara

Main Cities

Keren, Massawa, Assab, and Mendefera

Local Languages

English, Arabic

Currency

Eritrean nakfa (ERN)

Climate

Diverse Climate

General Visa Requirements:

All visitors to Eritrea generally require a visa in advance from an Eritrean embassy or consulate, although some nationalities may be eligible for visa on arrival. For film crews, visas are typically only issued once the project has been approved by the Ministry of Information.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Completed application form
Invitation letter
Proof of payment for filming fees
Detailed filming itinerary and schedule

Visa Application Process:

https://www.evisa.gov.et

Processing Time:

Visa processing for film crew applications typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks. It is recommended to apply at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance to allow time for approval.

Cost:

Visa costs are typically estimated at USD 50 to USD 200 per person, depending on visa type and duration of stay, with additional fees possible for filming permits and related documentation.

Accreditation Requirements:

International crew accreditation is managed by the Eritrean Ministry of Information and is required for film productions operating in the country.

Required Documents:

Completed application form
Passport copies
Proof of insurance
Filming permit
Detailed shooting schedule
List of crew members and their roles

Processing Time:

Processing typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks, with applications ideally submitted at least 6 weeks in advance.

Cost:

Costs are estimated at USD 20 to USD 100 per person, depending on the type of accreditation and duration.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits in Eritrea are issued by the Eritrean Ministry of Information, specifically the Department of Media and Public Relations.

Required Documents:

Completed application form
Script and storyboard
Filming schedule
Location list
Crew list
Equipment list
Proof of liability insurance
Proof of payment of permit fees

Processing Time:

Film permit processing can take around 2 to 6 weeks. It is recommended to apply 8 to 12 weeks in advance to allow for approvals.

Cost:

Permit costs are typically estimated between USD 500 and USD 2,000 or more, depending on the production type, locations, and duration of filming. Additional fees may apply for customs clearance and location management.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private filming locations in Eritrea are generally managed through a fixer, who negotiates with location owners, arranges access and logistics, and helps ensure compliance with local regulations and customs.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Private location costs are usually determined case by case and cannot generally be estimated before review of the production synopsis, script, and exact location requirements. Fees are typically negotiated directly with owners or managers.

Drone Regulations:

Drone operations in Eritrea are regulated by the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority. Prior permission and a permit are generally required, and operators must comply with safety rules and restricted airspace limitations. Unauthorized use may be subject to fines and penalties.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drone importation is regulated by the Eritrean Customs Authority. Importers are generally required to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Information and the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority, and may also need to pay applicable customs duties and taxes.

Permit Issuance:

Drone permits are issued by the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA)

Timing:

Processing typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks, though applying 6 to 8 weeks in advance is recommended.

Cost:

Costs are estimated at USD 200 to USD 500 or more, depending on the operation, permit duration, and related services.

Carnet Status:

Eritrea is considered a carnet country, allowing temporary importation of equipment without duties when a carnet is used.

Required Documents:

Commercial invoice
Bill of lading
Packing list
Certificate of origin
Temporary import permit
Detailed equipment list
Crew passports

Issuing Organization:

Eritrean Customs Authority

Timing:

Customs clearance typically takes 3 to 7 working days but may extend to several weeks depending on procedures and inspections.

Cost:

Costs typically range from 5% to 20% of the equipment value without carnet, with additional fees for handling and storage that may reach USD 500 to USD 2,000 or more.

General Overview:

Eritrea offers unique filming environments, including historic architecture and varied landscapes, but requires careful planning due to administrative processes, infrastructure limitations, and travel restrictions.