A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Tanzania
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Tanzania: What You Need to Know
Whether you’re shooting in a public or private area, you’ll need to have a film permit. This authorization for filming in Tanzania is also necessary for importing your equipment into the country and when applying for other permissions. Generally, it’ll take 7-14 days for the application to come through, but you’ll have to apply for it at least 30 days before your shoot commences. Doing so means you only need to pay the required $1000 filming permit fee. If you apply less than 30 days before your arrival day, the cost rises to $3000.
A filming board officer will be assigned to be on set with you throughout your shoot. If you are filming off the beaten track, you’ll need to pay for their food and accommodation, along with a fee.
If you are going to hire a drone, an individual from the Ministry of Defence and National Service will be present for the days you fly the drone.
Timing Your Tanzania Film Production around the Weather
Tanzania has two rainy seasons. The longest one, known as Masika in the local language, lasts from March to May and is characterized by heavy afternoon downpours. The shorter wet season is called Vuli and generally occurs during November and December. Then, the rainfall is lighter and less regular.
The dry season, which is considered to be the optimal time for any kind of film work, occurs from June to October.
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
You can rent equipment in Tanzania, but there is a limited choice of top cameras, lights, and sound kits. Many international filmmakers bring their own equipment with them, though this does involve paying a non-refundable fee of 10% of the total value of the gear, along with a customs agent fee. It’s hard to say which is the easier or most cost-effective route. Chat with us about needs for your particular project, and we can advise.
The same goes for English-speaking crews. We can help you find professional bilingual team members at rates that fit your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
No.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
Generally, yes. But the cities can be crowded, so you may need a security presence for crowd control.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
Yes, you will need to apply online for a business visa.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
No, but having a local film fixer can make permits and other applications easier.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes, you or your production partner in Tanzania will need to apply to the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA).
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
Not yet.
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
Yes, but you must make a request and have it approved. The local fixer will submit the application to the TANAPA on your behalf, and permission will be granted at their discretion.
Working with Fixer Tanzania
As a long-standing production support agency in Tanzania, we have helped many well-known clients to make their films and video projects happen. Our list of services includes equipment rental, location management, crew hire, paperwork, transport, translation services, and more. As a member of Storytailors, the wide range of projects that have occurred here and across the African continent include campaigns with Google, PUMA, HP, the World Health Organization (WHO), BMW Group, and IFPMA.