Somaliland

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Somaliland, 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 Somaliland

Capital

Hargeisa

Main Cities

Berbera, Burao, Gabiley, Borama

Local Languages

Somali (official) and Arabic

Currency

Somaliland Shilling (SLSH)

Climate

2 Seasons - Dry Season & Rainy Season

General Visa Requirements:

Somalia is not part of the Schengen Area, and most foreign nationals require a visa before travel. In some cases, visa on arrival may be available at major airports such as Mogadishu, but this generally depends on prior arrangements 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 activity requires government authorisation and local coordination.

Required Documents:

Valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity recommended
Completed visa application form
Passport-sized photograph
Invitation or sponsorship letter
Proof of accommodation
Proof of onward or return travel
Production support letter or local partner confirmation
Proof of fee payment
Travel medical insurance, strongly recommended

Visa Application Process:

Visa applications can be submitted through the Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs or at the embassy.

Processing Time:

Visa processing times vary depending on the embassy or relevant authority. For filming approvals and work authorisation, productions should allow several weeks or longer depending on project 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 in Somalia. Productions typically need to work through a local Somali partner, organisation, or fixer, together with coordination across relevant government ministries. Requirements depend heavily on filming location, subject matter, and security considerations, so advance coordination is essential.

Required Documents:

Letter from the foreign organization, listing crew members and their profiles
Resume for each crew member
Passport copy
Passport-sized photo

Processing Time:

Up to 10 working days.

Cost:

$150 per crew member.

Issuing Organization:

There is no single centralised film commission in Somalia. 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. Productions should allow extended lead time for approvals.

Cost:

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

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Permissions, fees, and timelines for private locations are generally negotiated directly with property owners. Community and local authority consent may also be required depending on the location.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location costs are negotiated case by case.

Drone Regulations:

Drone operations require explicit government and aviation authority approval in Somalia. Drone use is often highly restricted because of security considerations, and unauthorised drone use may result in confiscation or legal penalties.

Drone Importation Regulations:

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

Permit Issuance:

The relevant aviation authority is the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), and additional approvals may also be required from security authorities.

Timing:

Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Cost:

Productions should allow extended lead time, and fees depend on the operational scope and security review.

Carnet Status:

Somalia does not reliably operate ATA Carnet procedures.

Required Documents:

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

Issuing Organization:

Somaliland Customs Authority

Timing:

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

Cost:

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

General Overview:

Somalia presents significant security and operational challenges, and conditions vary greatly by region. Productions should carry out comprehensive risk assessments and security planning before travel and during production.