Myanmar

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Myanmar, 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 Myanmar

Capital

Naypyidaw

Main Cities

Yangon, Mandalay

Local Languages

Burmese, also known as Myanmar language.

Currency

Burmese kyat (MMK)

Climate

Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

Film crews planning to visit require a “Filming Permit” and a business visa. Both can be obtained through the Myanmar Ministry of Information and the Myanmar Embassy.

Required Documents:

Completed visa application form
Passport
Recent passport-sized photos
Copy of the production itinerary
Proof of payment for the filming permit
Letter of introduction from the production company or a local sponsor

Visa Application Process:

Visa Application Link
For further details and to apply, visit:
https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/

Processing Time:

Visa applications for film crews generally take 2-4 weeks to process. It’s advisable to apply at least 6-8 weeks in advance to ensure timely approval.

Cost:

Visa costs for film crews range from $20 to $500 per person, depending on the type of visa and length of stay. Additional fees may apply for the filming permit.

Accreditation Requirements:

To film in Myanmar, production companies typically need accreditation from the Myanmar Ministry of Information. This involves submitting detailed production information, including the script, crew list, and filming locations.

Required Documents:

Completed application form
Crew list with passport copies
Script and storyboard
Filming schedule
Proof of insurance and liability coverage

Processing Time:

2-4 weeks to process. It is recommended to apply at least 6-8 weeks in advance to allow for timely approval.

Cost:

The cost of international crew accreditation ranges from $50 to $200 per person, depending on the type of accreditation and the duration of stay.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits are issued by the Ministry of Information, specifically the Motion Picture and Video Production Department, in coordination with the Myanmar Investment Commission.

Required Documents:

To apply for a film permit, production companies generally need to submit a completed application form, along with the script and storyboard. Additionally, they must provide a filming schedule, a list of locations, and a crew list. An equipment list is also required, as well as proof of insurance and liability coverage.

Processing Time:

The typical processing time for a film permit is around 2-4 weeks. However, for larger or more complex productions, it may take 6-8 weeks or longer, especially if additional approvals are required.

Cost:

Ranges from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the nature of the production, the filming locations, and the duration. Additional fees may apply for equipment, crew, and other services.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

A fixer in Myanmar is instrumental in securing private film locations. They handle negotiations with property owners, acquire the necessary permits, and manage all logistics to ensure a smooth and successful filming experience.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

The cost of securing a private film location can only be determined after reviewing the Film Production Synopsis. The final price depends on various factors, including location specifics, filming requirements, and negotiations with the property owner.

Drone Regulations:

Operating drones for film and photography requires prior approval from the Ministry of Transport and Communications. Drone flights must adhere to regulations concerning flight altitude, proximity to airports and sensitive areas, and pilot licensing.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Importing drones for film and photography purposes requires a permit from the Ministry of Commerce and the payment of customs duties. Drones must also be declared and registered with the relevant authorities.

To import drones, applicants need to provide a commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, certificate of origin, permit from the Ministry of Commerce, and technical specifications of the drone.

Permit Issuance:

Drone permits for film and photography are issued by the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA), under the Ministry of Transport and Communications.

Timing:

The typical processing time for a drone permit is 7-14 working days. However, more complex applications or those requiring additional approvals may take 4-6 weeks or longer.

Cost:

Ranges from $100 to $300 USD, with additional fees for more complex applications, extended filming periods, or special requirements.

Carnet Status:

In a Carnet country, the process involves obtaining an ATA Carnet from a national issuing association, listing the equipment to be temporarily imported. Upon arrival and departure, the Carnet is presented to customs. It must then be returned to the issuing association within a specified timeframe.

Required Documents:

Film crews arriving in Myanmar must present several documents, including the Carnet, commercial invoices, packing lists, customs declaration forms, and a letter of introduction or authorization from the Myanmar Ministry of Information or the relevant government agency.

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance for film equipment is handled by the Myanmar Customs Department, under the Ministry of Planning and Finance.

Timing:

Customs clearance for film crews typically takes around 2-4 hours. However, if documentation is incomplete or if additional inspections are required, it can take 1-2 days or more.

Cost:

Ranges from $50 to $200 USD, depending on the complexity of the shipment, type of equipment, and whether a local customs broker is used.

General Overview:

Myanmar presents logistical challenges, infrastructure limitations, and bureaucratic complexities, making careful planning and local expertise essential for a smooth production.

Security Requirements:

Film crews are advised to exercise caution and adhere to safety protocols. This includes hiring local guides and fixers, respecting cultural norms, avoiding sensitive military or government areas, and staying updated on local conditions, protests, and weather forecasts.