Malawi

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Malawi, 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 Malawi

Capital

Lilongwe

Main Cities

Blantyre, Mzuzu, Zomba

Local Languages

Chichewa/Chewa/Yao/Tonga/Sena/Elomwe

Currency

Malawian Kwacha

Climate

Diverse Climate

General Visa Requirements:

Crew members should travel with passports valid for at least 6 months. A letter from the production company or employer confirming the purpose of travel is typically required. Malawi offers both an e-visa option and visa on arrival for many nationalities.

Required Documents:

Crew passports
Letter from production company or employer
Return or onward travel details, where recommended

Visa Application Process:

E-visa portal: https://evisa.gov.mw

Processing Time:

E-visas are typically processed within approximately 3 to 5 working days. Visa on arrival is generally issued at the airport for eligible nationalities.

Cost:

Approximately USD 50 to 150, depending on nationality and duration

Accreditation Requirements:

Foreign media and documentary crews generally require accreditation before filming in Malawi. This is typically handled through the Malawi Department of Information or the Ministry of Information.

Required Documents:

Project synopsis
Crew passports
Letter from production company or employer
Equipment list
Crew CVs or resumes

Processing Time:

Approximately 2 to 3 weeks minimum.

Cost:

Approximately USD 200 to 400.

Issuing Organization:

General filming permissions are typically handled by the Malawi Censorship and Control of Entertainment Board (MCCEB) and the Ministry of Information.

Required Documents:

Project synopsis
Crew passports
Letter from production company or employer
Shooting schedule and locations
Equipment list

Processing Time:

Approximately 2 to 3 weeks minimum.

Cost:

Fees vary depending on the type and scale of production and are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private filming locations require permission from the property owner and, where relevant, the local authority. Community engagement is often important when filming in rural areas.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location costs are negotiated case by case.

Drone Regulations:

Drone use is regulated in Malawi. Operations in urban areas and near airports are restricted, and unauthorized drone use may result in fines or confiscation.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Import and operation both require prior approval. Local drone availability is limited, so importing equipment is generally recommended.

Permit Issuance:

Drone permits are handled by the Malawi Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA).

Timing:

Approximately 2 to 3 weeks minimum.

Cost:

Approximately USD 200 to 500.

Carnet Status:

Malawi accepts ATA Carnets, and using one is recommended. With a carnet, temporary import is generally more straightforward. Without a carnet, a temporary import permit is required.

Required Documents:

Equipment kit list
Serial numbers
Purchase or replacement value

Issuing Organization:

Malawi Revenue Authority (Customs)

Timing:

Typically on arrival or within 1 to 2 days.

Cost:

Costs vary depending on the import arrangement. Recommended contingency budget: Approximately USD 300 to 1,000

General Overview:

Malawi is widely considered one of the safer countries in Africa for filming. Standard precautions are still recommended, particularly in urban areas and for productions operating in remote locations.