Uzbekistan

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Uzbekistan, 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 Uzbekistan

Capital

Tashkent

Main Cities

Samarkand, Bukhara, Andijan, Namangan

Local Languages

Uzbek (official), Russian widely spoken

Currency

Uzbekistani Som (UZS)

Climate

Continental

General Visa Requirements:

Most visitors to Uzbekistan need a visa, which can be obtained through an online e-visa system or at an embassy or consulate. Visa requirements vary based on nationality and the purpose of the visit.

Required Documents:

A valid passport with at least six months of validity, a completed application form, a recent passport-sized photo, and proof of payment for the visa fee. Additional documents may be required depending on the visa type.

Visa Application Process:

You can apply for an e-visa online at: https://e-visa.gov.uz/

Processing Time:

Not available.

Cost:

Visa fees vary depending on the visa type and duration. Tourist e-visas start at around $20, while multiple-entry visas valid for up to one year can cost up to $250. *Subject to change

Accreditation Requirements:

Film crew accreditation requires official approval from relevant government authorities. Crews must comply with national regulations and standards, with oversight provided by organizations such as the Uzstandard agency and the Uzbek Agency for Technical Regulation.

Required Documents:

To obtain accreditation, applicants need to submit a valid passport, completed application forms, proof of professional qualifications or relevant experience, and sometimes a letter of introduction or an agreement with Hoodlum Uzbekistan or Uzbek government body.

Processing Time:

2-5 Business days

Cost:

Fees for film crew accreditation vary depending on the type and scale of the production. Additional costs may apply for services such as location permits, equipment rentals, and personnel certifications. However, specific accreditation fees are not publicly standardized.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits and crew accreditations are generally issued by the Agency for Cinema under the Ministry of Culture, in coordination with relevant local authorities.

Required Documents:

A valid passport completed application forms, the film script, shooting schedule, proof of insurance, and sometimes a letter of introduction or an agreement with a local production company.

Uzbekkino / Agency for Cinema under the Ministry of Culture
http://uzbekkino.uz/
(Official body managing film permits, crew accreditation, and cultural oversight.)

Processing Time:

The processing time for film permits and accreditation can vary, typically ranging from several days up to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of the issuing agency.

Cost:

The cost of a film permit in Uzbekistan isn't standardized, but productions can qualify for a 20% tax rebate based on local spend if they spend at least $100,000 for film projects or $50,000 per episode for TV series.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

In Uzbekistan, a Fixer plays a key role in securing permissions to film at private locations, such as homes, businesses, and estates. This involves negotiating with property owners, obtaining the necessary permits, and ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

The cost of filming at a private location cannot be determined until the production schedule is provided.

Drone Regulations:

Drone operations are governed by the Uzbekistan Civil Aviation Agency (UzCAA). Commercial drone flights require prior authorization, must follow specific altitude and airspace restrictions, and comply with international aviation standards.

Applicants must provide a completed application form, detailed drone specifications, proof of liability insurance, pilot qualifications, and a comprehensive flight plan.

Drone Importation Regulations:

The importation of drones is regulated under the Uzbekistan Customs Code and overseen by the State Committee for Customs. Importers must obtain permission from the Uzbekistan Civil Aviation Agency and comply with customs declaration and taxation procedures.

Applicants need to submit a commercial invoice, certificate of origin, technical specifications, and a declaration from the Uzbekistan Civil Aviation Agency.

Permit Issuance:

Permits for both drone operations and importation are issued by the Uzbekistan Civil Aviation Agency (UzCAA).

Timing:

Drone importation permits take 7 to 14 working days to process after the full submission of required documents.

Cost:

Not available.

Carnet Status:

Yes, Uzbekistan is a Carnet country.

General Process for Carnet Countries
In Carnet countries, the process involves obtaining an ATA Carnet before travel, presenting it to customs upon arrival and departure, and using it to temporarily import equipment duty-free and tax-free.

Required Documents:

A Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Import License, and Insurance Certificate. These documents provide detailed information about the equipment, its value, and transportation.

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance is managed by the National Customs Agency.

Timing:

2 to 5 working days, depending on the complexity of the shipment.

Cost:

Costs vary based on the type of goods, shipment value, and services used, typically ranging from 2% to 10% of the shipment’s value, plus additional fees for documentation, inspections, and related services.

General Overview:

Uzbekistan is generally considered a safe destination for travellers and film productions.

Security Requirements:

No special security requirements are typically needed, as Uzbekistan is regarded as a low-risk country. However, standard precautions and adherence to local regulations are always recommended.