Uganda

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Uganda, 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 Uganda

Capital

Kampala

Main Cities

Nansana, Kira Town, Ssabagabo,Mbarara

Local Languages

Swahili and English

Currency

Ugandan Shilling

Climate

Predominantly Tropical

General Visa Requirements:

Uganda is not part of the Schengen Area. Most foreign nationals, including those from the UK, EU member states, United States, Canada, and Australia, require a visa prior to travel. Uganda operates an online e-Visa system, and visas on arrival are generally not standard without prior approval. Tourist visas are typically issued for up to 90 days. Visitor status does not permit paid work. Filming and paid production activities require appropriate work permits and filming authorisation.

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Completed online visa application
Passport-sized photograph
Invitation letter or production support letter
Proof of accommodation
Proof of onward or return travel
Work permit application (for paid activities)
Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (mandatory)
Proof of fee payment
Travel medical insurance (recommended)

Visa Application Process:

Online application via Uganda e-Visa portal
Supporting documents uploaded digitally
Work permits processed separately through immigration and labour authorities
Filming authorisation coordinated with relevant regulatory bodies

Official references:
https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
https://www.immigration.go.ug/

Processing Time:

e-Visa processing typically 3–7 working days. Work permits and filming approvals require a minimum of 3–6 weeks. Wildlife or conservation filming may require longer lead times.

Cost:

Visa fees vary by nationality and visa type. Work permit and filming permit fees assessed case-by-case.

Accreditation Requirements:

Foreign cast and crew require work permits to undertake paid filming activities in Uganda. Productions must operate through a Ugandan-registered production company or licensed local fixer or service company. Work permits are coordinated through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control and, where applicable, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development. Requirements depend on role, duration, and local labour considerations.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Work permit application
Production letter outlining:
- Project overview
- Shooting schedule and locations
- Crew roles
Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
Equipment list
Insurance documentation

Processing Time:

Minimum 3–6 weeks, depending on role and documentation.

Cost:

Varies depending on duration, role, and ministry involvement.

Issuing Organization:

Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), responsible for licensing and regulating film production.

Uganda Communications Commission:
https://www.ucc.co.ug/

Additional approvals may be required from local municipalities and the Uganda Wildlife Authority for national parks and protected areas.

Required Documents:

Production title and synopsis
Full script, often required for review
Producer and director details
Shooting schedule and locations
Cast and crew list including passport details for foreign nationals
Equipment list
Insurance documentation
Local production partner details

Processing Time:

Standard permits typically require 2–4 weeks. Filming in national parks, protected areas, or sensitive locations requires additional coordination. Allow 4–6 weeks for wildlife or conservation areas.

Cost:

Fees vary depending on location, duration, equipment scale, and wildlife authority involvement.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Permissions, fees, and timelines are negotiated directly with private property owners. Community permissions may also be required in rural areas.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Varies depending on landowner, exclusivity, and production impact.

Drone Regulations:

Drone operations regulated by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority
Prior authorisation mandatory for all commercial drone filming
Restrictions apply near airports, military installations, government facilities, national parks, and wildlife reserves
Operation without approval may result in confiscation or penalties

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drones must be declared on arrival
Prior written approval from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority required before importation and operation

Permit Issuance:

Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA)

Timing:

Minimum 10–20 working days.
Longer processing may apply for conservation or wildlife zones.

Cost:

Assessed case-by-case depending on airspace, operational scope, and duration.

Carnet Status:

Uganda accepts ATA Carnets for temporary importation of professional filming equipment.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet issued in the country of origin
Equipment lists aligned with carnet documentation
Supporting production documentation if requested

Issuing Organization:

Uganda Revenue Authority, coordinated through a local production partner or customs broker where required.

Timing:

Clearance handled at entry points. Timing depends on shipment size and inspection requirements.

Cost:

ATA Carnet issuance fees apply in the country of origin. Local customs handling or brokerage fees may apply.

General Overview:

Uganda is generally stable, though regional conditions may vary. Infrastructure in major areas supports production, while remote wildlife locations require detailed logistical planning.

Security Requirements:

Risk assessments recommended for remote wildlife filming
Health precautions advised, including malaria prevention in certain regions
Yellow Fever vaccination mandatory
Medical evacuation planning recommended for remote shoots
Additional coordination required in national parks and conservation areas

Rebates/Incentives:

Uganda does not currently operate a formal national cash rebate programme comparable to European incentive models. Support is facilitation-based through regulatory and government coordination.

Available Support

Permit facilitation
Location access coordination
Wildlife authority liaison for conservation areas

Eligibility

International productions working with a Ugandan-registered production company

Notes

Work permits, filming permits, wildlife approvals, and drone permissions operate independently
Wildlife authority approvals must be secured in advance
Equipment documentation must align with customs procedures
Yellow Fever vaccination requirements must be met prior to entry