Hoodlum Film Fixers
Hoodlum Film Fixers
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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.

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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.

Security Requirements:

  • Police escort or armed security may be required in certain areas
  • Private security may be necessary depending on location and production scale

Rebates/Incentives:

There is currently no formal film rebate or tax incentive program available for productions.

Meet our Local Team

Edwin

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Edwin

Edwin

Fixer CV

Client Brief

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Services We Provide in Eritrea

Accommodation

Airport Protocol & On-Ground Support

Casting & Talent

Catering

Crew Sourcing

Customs Clearance

Drone & Aerial Permits

Drone & Drone Operator

Equipment Rentals

Film Permits

Line Producers & Production Management

Local Film Fixers

Locations / RECCE’s

Logistics

Rebates & Incentives

Research

Risk Management

Security

Set Dressing / Production Design

Transport & Vehicles

Visas & Work Permits

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Introduction

Hoodlum offers premier film fixer services in Eritrea, providing comprehensive support to international production teams. With extensive local expertise and hands-on experience, we take care of all aspects of your production, including visa assistance, film permits, location scouting, crew assembly, equipment rental, customs clearance, transportation, accommodation, still photography, and post-production services.

From the dramatic landscapes of the Red Sea coastline to the bustling markets and culturally rich villages, Eritrea offers an impressive range of settings for commercials, feature films, TV series, documentaries, reality shows, and still photography projects.

Planning a shoot in Eritrea? Hoodlum handles all logistical details—securing permits, managing visas, arranging equipment rentals, booking flights and accommodations, organizing local transport, and overseeing post-production—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact us today to ensure a seamless, successful, and visually captivating production in Eritrea.

Country Overview

This region offers a diverse range of filming locations, from the vibrant streets of Asmara to the dramatic, untouched landscapes of its countryside. The country’s terrain includes coastal beaches, rugged mountains, vast deserts, and traditional villages, providing a variety of settings for different types of productions.

The Red Sea coastline, with its stunning beaches and port cities, is perfect for documentary and commercial shoots, while the mountainous regions and scenic highlands offer beautiful backdrops for adventure and nature-focused projects.

For urban-themed productions, Asmara’s unique blend of colonial-era architecture and modern cityscapes presents a striking contrast, showcasing Eritrea’s rich history and development. The rural villages, with their traditional homes and cultural heritage, offer an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of the people.

With its unique combination of landscapes, historical richness, and natural beauty, Eritrea is an exceptional destination for filmmakers and photographers in search of diverse and captivating backdrops for their projects.

Bordering Countries:

Thsi region is bordered by three countries: Djibouti to the southeast, Ethiopia to the south, and Sudan to the west.

Main Cities:

The main cities in Eritrea are Asmara (the capital), Keren, Massawa, Assab, and Mendefera.

Local Languages:

The official currency of Eritrea is the Eritrean nakfa (ERN).

Local Currency:

The official currency of Eritrea is the Eritrean nakfa (ERN).

Best time to film:

The best time to film is during the dry season, from October to June, when the weather is typically sunny and mild, offering ideal conditions for outdoor shoots. Filming during the rainy season, from July to September, is not recommended due to heavy rainfall and flash flooding, which can create challenges and unpredictability for outdoor filming.

Visa Requirements

General Requirement in Country

All visitors to this region require a visa, which must be obtained in advance from an Eritrean embassy or consulate, unless they are citizens of certain countries eligible for a visa on arrival.

Required Information / Documentation for Application

Film crews applying for a visa in Eritrea typically need to submit documents such as a valid passport, a completed application form, an invitation letter, proof of payment for filming fees, and a detailed itinerary of the filming schedule.

Timings

The processing time for a film crew visa in Eritrea generally takes 2-4 weeks, although it is recommended to apply 6-8 weeks in advance to ensure timely approval.

Cost

The cost of a visa for a film crew in Eritrea ranges from $50 to $200 per person, depending on the type of visa and duration of stay, with additional fees for filming permits and other required documentation.

International crew accreditation

General Accreditation Requirements

Film crews must obtain accreditation from the Eritrean Ministry of Information. This process involves submitting necessary documentation, including a filming permit, proof of insurance, and a detailed shooting schedule.

Required Information / Documentation for Application

Film crews applying for accreditation typically need to provide a completed application form, copies of passports, proof of insurance, a filming permit, a detailed shooting schedule, and a list of crew members along with their roles.

Timings

The accreditation process for film crews generally takes 2-4 weeks. However, it is recommended to apply at least 6 weeks in advance to ensure timely approval.

Cost

The cost of crew accreditation typically ranges from $20 to $100 per person, depending on the type of accreditation and the duration of stay. Additional fees for filming permits and other required documentation may apply.

General Film Permit

What Organisation Issues the Permits?

Film permits are issued by the Eritrean Ministry of Information, specifically through the Department of Media and Public Relations, which oversees the authorization and regulation of film productions in the country.

Timings

The processing time for a film permit typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks. However, it is recommended to submit your application at least 8-12 weeks in advance to ensure timely approval.

Required Information / Documentation for Application

To apply for a film permit, applicants are generally required to submit the following documents:

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

Cost

The cost of a film permit can range from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on factors such as the type of production, location, and filming duration. Additional fees may apply for services like customs clearance and location management.

Private Locations

General Process

Hoodlum Films Fixers plays a key role in securing private film locations by negotiating with property owners, obtaining permission, coordinating logistics, and ensuring adherence to local regulations. The fixer often serves as the intermediary between the film production team and local authorities or property owners to ensure smooth operations.

Cost

The cost of securing private film locations is typically determined on a case-by-case basis. Fees are negotiated directly with the location owners or managers and depend on factors such as the production synopsis, script, and specific location requirements, making it difficult to provide an estimate in advance.

Drone Permit

Drone Regulations

Drone operations are regulated by the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA). Operators must obtain prior permission and a permit, follow specific safety guidelines, and avoid restricted airspace. Unauthorized drone use may result in fines and penalties.

Drone Importation Regulations

The importation of drones is controlled by the Eritrean Customs Authority. Importers are required to obtain a permit from both the Ministry of Information and the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority, along with paying any applicable customs duties and taxes.

What Organization Issues the Permits?

The Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) issues drone permits, overseeing the regulation and authorization of drone operations in the country.

Required Information/Documentation for Local Drone Applications

To apply for a drone permit in Eritrea, operators typically need to submit the following: a completed application form, drone specifications, proof of insurance, a pilot license, a flight plan, and a letter detailing the purpose of the drone operation.

Required Information/Documentation for Drone Importation

When applying for drone importation into Eritrea, importers must provide: a commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, certificate of origin, and a permit from the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA).

Timings

The processing time for a drone permit in Eritrea typically takes 2-4 weeks. It is recommended to apply at least 6-8 weeks in advance to ensure timely approval from the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA).

Cost

The cost for a drone permit in Eritrea generally ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the type of operation, permit duration, and other factors. Additional fees for customs clearance and related services may also apply.

Equipment Customs Clearance

Is it a Carnet Country?

No, Eritrea is not a Carnet country.

General Process for Non-Carnet Countries

In a non-Carnet country like Eritrea, filming equipment and other goods can be temporarily imported using a Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, and a Temporary Import Permit. This permit requires a bank guarantee or cash deposit to ensure the goods are re-exported.

Required Information/Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance

Film crews arriving in Eritrea must typically provide documents such as a Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, and a Temporary Import Permit. A detailed equipment list and crew passports will also be required.

What Organization Issues the Clearance?

Customs clearance in Eritrea is issued by the Eritrean Customs Authority (also known as the Eritrean Revenue Authority), which is responsible for regulating and facilitating the import and export of goods.

Timings

Customs clearance in Eritrea typically takes 3-7 working days, though it can take 2-4 weeks due to bureaucratic processes or additional documentation and inspections.

Cost

The cost of customs clearance in Eritrea generally ranges from 5-20% of the total value of the goods, with additional fees for storage, handling, and other services, which can total between $500 and $2,000 or more.

Safety and Security

General In-Country Overview

Eritrea offers a distinctive filming experience with its blend of Italian colonial architecture, rugged landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. However, filming here requires thorough planning and preparation due to limited infrastructure, bureaucratic processes, and potential travel restrictions.

Type of Security Required

Film productions in Eritrea often require a police escort or armed security personnel, particularly when filming in rural areas or sensitive locations. Additionally, producers may need to hire private security companies to ensure the safety of the crew.