Sierra Leone

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Sierra Leone, 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 Sierra Leone

Capital

Freetown

Main Cities

Makeni, Bonthe

Local Languages

English

Currency

Sierra Leonean leone (SLL)

Climate

Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

Visitors typically need: A valid passport A visa (available on arrival or in advance from a Sierra Leonean embassy or consulate) Proof of yellow fever vaccination

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Completed visa application form
Invitation letter
Proof of yellow fever vaccination
Detailed itinerary
Film project documentation (e.g., script, location permits, equipment list)

Visa Application Process:

Apply online here: Sierra Leone eVisa Portal

Processing Time:

Visa processing can take between 2 to 10 working days, depending on the type of visa, nationality, and whether express processing is requested.

Cost:

Visa fees range from $100 to $500 per person, depending on visa type, duration of stay, and nationality.

Accreditation Requirements:

A letter of introduction from the production company
A copy of the film permit
Identification documents (e.g., passports, national ID cards)

These documents must be submitted to the relevant authorities, such as the Sierra Leone National Film Commission or the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs.

Required Documents:

Letter of introduction from the production company
Copy of the film permit
Passports and national ID cards
Proof of professional certification or qualification
Detailed crew list, including names, roles, and contact information

Processing Time:

Crew accreditation in Sierra Leone typically takes 2 to 5 working days but may take longer if additional documentation is required or during peak periods.

Cost:

The cost of crew accreditation generally ranges from $50 to $200 per person, depending on the type of accreditation, duration of stay, and other factors. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or other services.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits in Sierra Leone are issued by the Sierra Leone National Film Commission, which oversees and regulates film production in the country.

Required Documents:

Completed application form
Production schedule
Script
List of crew and cast members
Equipment list
Proof of liability insurance
Letter of intent from the production company

Processing Time:

Film permits typically take 5 to 14 working days to process, though this may vary if additional documentation is required or during peak periods.

Cost:

The cost of a film permit generally ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on factors such as production type, filming location, and duration. Additional fees may apply for administrative costs, location permits, and other services.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Securing private film locations involves Hoodlum negotiating with location owners, obtaining the necessary permits and permissions, and ensuring that all logistical and administrative arrangements are in place for a smooth filming process.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

The cost of using a private film location is determined on a case-by-case basis. Location owners or managers usually request a production bio with project details before providing a specific quote.

Drone Regulations:

Drone operators must obtain a permit from the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) before flying. Operators must comply with regulations regarding airspace, altitude restrictions, and proximity to people and sensitive areas.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Importing a drone requires a permit from the Sierra Leone Customs Service and the National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM). Importers must also comply with regulations related to customs clearance, taxes, and frequency authorization.

Applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of drone registration, proof of liability insurance, a copy of the drone operator’s license, and a detailed flight plan.

Importation requires a commercial invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, proof of customs duty payment, a permit from NATCOM, and a clearance certificate from SLCAA.

Permit Issuance:

Drone permits in are issued by the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA).

Timing:

The processing time for a drone permit typically ranges from 7 to 14 working days after submitting a completed application with all required documents.

Cost:

The cost of a drone permit generally ranges between $200 and $500, depending on the type of permit, duration of flight operations, and other factors.

Carnet Status:

Sierra Leone is not a Carnet country.

As a non-Carnet country, temporary importation of film equipment requires obtaining a temporary import permit, paying a customs bond or deposit, and completing a customs declaration form. This process allows film crews to temporarily bring equipment into Sierra Leone for a specified period.

Required Documents:

Film crew members must present a valid passport, a completed customs declaration form, a temporary import permit, a commercial invoice for equipment, and a letter of introduction from the production company or local film commission.

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance for film equipment in Sierra Leone is issued by the National Revenue Authority (NRA).

Timing:

Customs clearance typically takes 3 to 5 working days, but in some cases, it may extend to 7 to 10 working days, depending on the shipment’s complexity and the accuracy of the documentation.

Cost:

The cost of customs clearance in Sierra Leone usually ranges from 5% to 15% of the total value of the goods, plus a processing fee of approximately $100 to $300. Costs may vary depending on the type and value of the equipment.

General Overview:

Infrastructure and logistics can present challenges, so careful planning and local expertise are crucial for a successful shoot.

Security Requirements:

It is recommended to hire a reputable, experienced local security company. They should provide both armed and unarmed guards, along with risk assessment and management services to ensure the safety of the crew, equipment, and filming locations.