Somalia

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Somalia, 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 Somalia

Capital

Mogadishu

Main Cities

Beledweyne / Kismayo / Baidoa / Jowhar / Merca / Gaalkayo / Bosasso / Hargeisa & Berbera

Local Languages

Arabic & Somali

Currency

Somali shilling

Climate

Hot & Humid

General Visa Requirements:

Somalia is not part of the Schengen Area. Most foreign nationals require a visa prior to travel. In some cases, visa on arrival may be available at major airports (such as Mogadishu) if prior arrangements have been made through a sponsoring organisation. Length of stay is determined by immigration authorities on arrival. Visitor status does not permit paid work, and filming or paid production activities require government authorisation and local coordination.

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity recommended)
Completed visa application form
Passport-sized photograph
Invitation or sponsorship letter (often required)
Proof of accommodation
Proof of onward/return travel
Production support letter or local partner confirmation
Proof of fee payment
Travel medical insurance (strongly recommended)

Visa Application Process:

Official reference: https://mfa.gov.so/

Processing Time:

Visa processing times vary depending on the embassy or authority. Filming approvals and work authorisation often require several weeks or longer, depending on scope and security considerations.

Cost:

Visa and permit fees vary depending on nationality and duration.

Accreditation Requirements:

Foreign cast and crew require government authorisation to undertake filming activities. Productions typically operate through a local Somali partner, organisation, or fixer, with coordination through relevant government ministries. Requirements depend heavily on location, subject matter, and security considerations, so advance coordination is essential.

Required Documents:

Resume of each crew member
Passport copy
Passport-sized photo

Processing Time:

Up to 14 working days

Cost:

$300 per crew member

Issuing Organization:

There is no single centralised film commission. Filming approvals are generally coordinated through the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, local administrative authorities, and security agencies (where applicable). A local production partner or fixer typically facilitates the process.

Required Documents:

Production title and synopsis
Detailed description of project scope
Producer and director details
Shooting schedule and locations
Cast and crew list (including passport details)
Equipment list
Insurance details
Local partner or fixer information

Processing Time:

Permit timelines vary widely depending on location, subject matter, and security assessment. Approvals may require extended lead time.

Cost:

Fees are assessed case-by-case depending on production scope and logistical support required.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Permissions, fees, and timelines are negotiated directly with property owners. Community and local authority consent may be required.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

The fixer Negotiate permissions and fees with property owners

Drone Regulations:

Drone operations require explicit government and aviation authority approval. Drone use is often highly restricted due to security considerations, and unauthorised drone use may lead to confiscation or legal penalties.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drones must be declared on arrival. Importation without prior authorisation is strongly discouraged.

Permit Issuance:

Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA)

Timing:

Applications are reviewed case-by-case. Allow extended lead time. Fees depend on operational scope and security review.

Cost:

Applications are reviewed case-by-case. Allow extended lead time. Fees depend on operational scope and security review.

Carnet Status:

Somalia does not reliably operate ATA Carnet procedures.

Required Documents:

Temporary import of filming equipment generally requires:

Detailed equipment lists
Customs declarations
Coordination with local authorities or a customs broker
Deposits or temporary import duties (may apply)

Issuing Organization:

Somalia Customs Information

Timing:

Clearance timelines may vary significantly depending on entry point and inspection requirements.

Cost:

Costs vary depending on shipment size and duration of temporary import.

General Overview:

Somalia presents significant security and operational challenges, and conditions vary greatly by region. Productions should conduct comprehensive risk assessments and security planning.

Security Requirements:

Working with experienced local fixers
Using professional security advisors
Monitoring government travel advisories
Maintaining flexible production planning

Rebates/Incentives:

Incentive Overview

Somalia does not currently operate a formal national film incentive or rebate programme.

Available Support

Government facilitation may be possible for approved cultural or documentary projects.

Who Can Apply

International productions working with a local Somali partner or organisation.

How It Fits With Permits & Visas

Visa approvals, filming permits, security permissions, and equipment import procedures operate independently. Productions should ensure government approvals are secured before travel, equipment lists match customs documentation, drone operations are authorised in advance, and security planning is integrated into pre-production.