Tanzania

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Tanzania, 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 Tanzania

Capital

Dar es Salaam

Main Cities

Dodoma, Mbeya, Morogoro, Tabora

Local Languages

Swahili, English

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling

Climate

Tropical

General Visa Requirements:

All international film and television crew entering Tanzania for professional filming purposes must apply for a Business Visa. Tourist visas are not valid for professional filming or media-related work. Business visas must be obtained prior to travel or on arrival, depending on nationality. Each crew member must apply individually. Entry visas do not replace filming permits or work authorisation. A Letter of Invitation from the local production partner is required, and the purpose of travel must clearly state filming, media, or production work.

Required Documents:

Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Passport-style photograph
Letter of Invitation
Accommodation confirmation
Travel itinerary or flight details

Visa Application Process:

Online or embassy application prior to travel, or
Visa on arrival (nationality dependent)
Business purpose must be clearly stated

Official reference:
https://immigration.go.tz

Processing Time:

Visa on arrival: issued at entry (nationality dependent) Online or embassy application: 5–10 working days

Cost:

USD 250 (Business Visa – nationality dependent)

Accreditation Requirements:

All foreign film crew conducting professional filming activities in Tanzania must obtain a Temporary Work Permit (Class C – Short-Term Assignment). This is issued by the Department of Immigration Services and is required in addition to the Business Visa. The work permit must align with the approved Film Permit.

Required Documents:

Approved Film Permit
Passport copy
Passport-style photograph
CV, Resume, Portfolio, or IMDb link
Letter confirming role on the production
Estimated arrival and departure dates

Processing Time:

2–4 weeks.

Cost:

USD 200–300 per crew member. Final fee confirmed at time of application.

Issuing Organization:

Tanzania Film Board (TFB)
Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports.

Required Documents:

Project synopsis or treatment
Full script (if applicable)
Shooting schedule and filming dates
Detailed list of filming locations
Full cast and crew list with nationalities
Production company details
Equipment list (if applicable)

Processing Time:

Standard processing: up to 1 month. Fast-track processing available subject to authority approval.

Cost:

Standard Film Permit: USD 1,000 Fast-Track Film Permit: USD 3,000 Fast-track approval is discretionary and dependent on project scope and authority availability.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Locations may be privately owned, community-owned, or government-controlled. The local production partner scouts and secures locations, negotiates access and fees, and obtains written permissions. Additional approvals may be required for government buildings, hotels and lodges, and cultural, religious, or heritage sites.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Varies based on:

Location type
Duration of filming
Usage and disruption level
All costs confirmed once locations are locked.

Drone Regulations:

Drone use is strictly regulated
Governed by Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA)
Ministry of Defence involved for importation
Flying without approval is strictly prohibited

Drone Importation Regulations:

Advance approval required
Unauthorized drones may be seized on arrival
Strongly recommended to use locally licensed drone operators

Permit Issuance:

Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA)
In coordination with Ministry of Defence where applicable.

Timing:

Minimum 3–6 weeks.

Cost:

Fees vary depending on drone type, location, and duration.
Costs confirmed upon application.

Carnet Status:

Tanzania is not a Carnet country. Temporary importation is permitted with proper documentation.

Required Documents:

Approved Film Permit
Detailed equipment list with serial numbers and declared values
Passport copies of crew carrying equipment

Issuing Organization:

Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).

Timing:

Same-day clearance possible with pre-approved paperwork.

Cost:

Customs bond or deposit may be required. Clearing agent fees vary depending on equipment volume and value.

General Overview:

Tanzania is generally safe for filming. Major cities and key filming regions are stable. Remote or border regions require additional assessment and planning.

Security Requirements:

Security typically not required for standard filming
Police support may be required for:
- Road closures
- Crowd control
- Sensitive or high-profile locations

Medical Considerations