Zanzibar

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Zanzibar, 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 Zanzibar

Capital

Unguja

Main Cities

Chaani, Mbweni

Local Languages

Swahili (Kiswahili)

Currency

Tanzanian shilling (TZS)

Climate

Mainly Rainy Seasons

General Visa Requirements:

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

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 clearly state filming or media activity

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 working professionally in Zanzibar must obtain a Temporary Work Permit (Short-Term Assignment). This is issued by Zanzibar Immigration Services and is required in addition to the Business Visa. The permit must align with the approved Zanzibar Film Permit.

Required Documents:

Approved Zanzibar 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 recommended lead time.

Cost:

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

Issuing Organization:

Zanzibar Film Censorship Board (ZFCB)
Under the Ministry of Youth, Culture, Arts and Sports – Zanzibar.

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 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 hotels and resorts, mosques and religious sites, Stone Town (UNESCO Heritage Site), and government buildings.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Varies depending on:

Location type
Duration of filming
Cultural or community sensitivities
All costs confirmed once locations are locked.

Drone Regulations:

Drone use is highly restricted
Governed by Zanzibar Civil Aviation Authority and security authorities
Flying without approval is strictly prohibited

Drone Importation Regulations:

Advance approval required
Unauthorized drones may be confiscated at entry
Strongly recommended to use locally licensed drone operators

Permit Issuance:

Zanzibar Civil Aviation Authority
In coordination with security and defence authorities.

Timing:

Minimum 4–6 weeks.

Cost:

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

Carnet Status:

Zanzibar follows Tanzania customs regulations and is not a Carnet country. Temporary importation is permitted with proper documentation.

Required Documents:

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

Issuing Organization:

Zanzibar Revenue Board (ZRB)
In coordination with Tanzania Revenue Authority.

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:

Zanzibar is generally safe and stable. Filming is well supported when properly permitted. Cultural sensitivity is extremely important, particularly in public and religious environments.

Security Requirements:

Security usually not required for standard filming
Police or local authority presence may be required for:
- Public areas
- Large crews
- Stone Town or other sensitive locations

Cultural & Medical Considerations