Guinea-Bissau

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Guinea-Bissau, 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 Guinea-Bissau

Capital

Bissau

Main Cities

Bafatá, Gabu, Canchungo, Farim, Cacheu

Local Languages

Pular is the most widely spoken (35%), followed by Maninka (25%) and Susu (18%)

Currency

West African CFA franc, XOF

Climate

Hot & Humid

General Visa Requirements:

Guinea-Bissau is open to foreign visitors, but a visa is required unless the traveller is from one of the countries on the visa-exempt list. Visas can be obtained in one of two ways:

Required Documents:

You can apply for a visa through the Guinean embassy or consulate in your home country.

Completed application form, signed by the applicant
Passport valid for at least 6 months
Two passport-sized photos
Vaccination certificate
Appointment letter confirming the details of your visit (received after booking your appointment)
Original, valid photo identification
Travel document (mandatory)
Supporting documents for online visa application

Visitors from select countries may be eligible for a visa on arrival. These travellers do not need to secure a visa beforehand and can obtain one at the entry point. The visa becomes valid as soon as it is issued and allows for a stay of up to 90 days, after which the holder must depart.

Note: It is advisable to confirm your eligibility and visa requirements prior to travel. Applying for a visa well in advance of your planned travel dates is recommended to allow sufficient processing time.

Visa Application Process:

You can complete an online pre-enrolment form, also known as the online visa application. https://btwvisas.com/visa-online/guinea-bissau-visa-online

Processing Time:

3 to 5 working days

Cost:

Not available.

Accreditation Requirements:

To film in Guinea-Bissau, a filming permit is required, regardless of whether the project is for commercial or non-commercial purposes. The type of filming, location, and specific regulations around filming licenses can vary. It is essential for Hoodlum Ivory Coast to contact the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Communication, Tourism, or Culture, to determine the necessary licenses and authorizations for your project.

Required Documents:

It is essential for Hoodlum Ivory Coast to contact the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Communication, Tourism, or Culture, to determine the necessary licenses and authorizations for your project.

Processing Time:

3 to 5 working days

Cost:

Issuing Organization:

Home Affairs Office
Ministry of Tourism

Required Documents:

Letter requesting authorization
List of filming equipment
Shooting locations
Production duration

Processing Time:

2 to 3 weeks

Cost:

Depends on film synopsis

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

These are privately owned locations, and the owner is contacted by Hoodlums Fixer and negotiates the terms and rates

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

These are privately owned locations, and the owner is contacted by Hoodlums Fixer and negotiates the terms and rates

Drone Regulations:

A list of filming equipment, including drones, must be submitted to the airport’s customs office for authorization before importing into Guinea-Bissau.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Authorization must be filed with the Ministry of the Interior, specifying the filming dates, locations, and times.

Permit Issuance:

Airport Customs Office

Timing:

2 to 5 working days

Cost:

Not available.

Carnet Status:

Yes, Guinea-Bissau is a carnet country.

General Process for Carnet Countries

Submit an import request for filming equipment.
Provide a detailed list of the filming equipment.
Include the value of the equipment.

Required Documents:

Import request for filming equipment.
Detailed list of the filming equipment.
Value of the equipment.

Issuing Organization:

Airport Customs Department

Timing:

3 to 5 working days

Cost:

Dependending on equipment list

General Overview:

Safety precautions are crucial to protect the well-being of both the crew and equipment. Due to occasional political instability and crime, particularly in urban areas, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and stay informed about the local security situation.

Security Requirements:

Engaging experienced local fixers and security personnel is recommended, as they can offer valuable insight and assistance in managing potential risks.