Lapland

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Lapland, 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 Lapland

Capital

Rovaniemi (regional capital).

Main Cities

Rovaniemi, Kemi, Tornio, Kemijärvi.

Local Languages

Finnish, Sámi, Swedish.

Currency

Euro (EUR).

Climate

Subarctic climate (DFC)

General Visa Requirements:

Non-EU/EEA citizens generally require a Schengen Visa to enter Norway, Sweden, and Finland.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Completed visa application form
Invitation letter
Proof of insurance
Proof of financial means
Detailed itinerary or shooting schedule

Visa Application Process:

Visa application link

Processing Time:

20–30 days

Cost:

$570

Accreditation Requirements:

Proof of identity, qualifications, and relevant experience.
Compliance with safety regulations set by Traficom or other authorities.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Medical certificate
Proof of qualifications and licenses (e.g. pilot license)
Certificate of no criminal record

Processing Time:

2–4 weeks

Cost:

$55–$220

Issuing Organization:

Finnish Lapland Film Commission

Required Documents:

Completed application form
Proof of liability insurance
Shooting schedule and script
Location permits
Identification documents

Processing Time:

2–6 weeks

Cost:

$550–$2,200

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Fixer/location manager negotiates with landowners.
Obtains necessary permissions and coordinates logistics.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Quote-specific, based on production synopsis, duration, and location requirements.

Drone Regulations:

Governed by Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom).
Must follow EU drone rules.
Sensitive areas (e.g. national parks) may require additional permits.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Customs declaration required.
Licensing needed for drones over 25 kg or using specific frequencies.

Permit Issuance:

Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom)

Timing:

1–3 weeks

Cost:

$55–$550

Carnet Status:

Lapland follows Finland’s system → Finland is a Carnet country.
ATA Carnet simplifies temporary import/export of film equipment.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet
Commercial invoices
Packing list
Customs declaration
Detailed equipment list

Issuing Organization:

Finnish Customs (Tulli)

Timing:

1–2 hours

Cost:

$25–$55

General Overview:

Lapland provides a safe, film-friendly environment with Arctic landscapes, skilled crews, and modern infrastructure

Security Requirements:

Standard precautions: secure storage, lock equipment, location safety checks.
In remote shoots: GPS tracking and additional on-set security are recommended.

Rebates/Incentives:

Finland (including Lapland) offers a 25% rebate on eligible production costs.
Maximum rebate: $1.1 million.
Applies to international film and TV productions.

Meet our Local Team

Lapland

Kimmo

Client Brief

Fill in our client brief and we’ll get back to you with everything you need to start filming in this region.

Selected Work by Our Local Partners in Europe

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Services We Provide in Lapland

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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