Introduction
Hoodlum offers premier film fixer services in Albania, providing essential support to international production teams. With extensive local knowledge and experience, we manage all aspects of production logistics, including location scouting, securing permits, and connecting you with skilled local crews to ensure a smooth process. Albania, with its stunning coastlines, dramatic mountains, and rich cultural history, presents a unique and captivating setting for filmmakers. Whether you’re producing a commercial, feature film, TV series, or documentary, Hoodlum’s expert local team ensures your production is handled with precision and care.
Planning a film project in Albania? Let Hoodlum take care of the logistics—from permits to locations—so you can focus on your creative vision. Contact Hoodlum today and see how we can make your Albania production a success.
Country overview:
Albania, located in Southeastern Europe, is a country known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Bordered by Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece, and flanked by the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Albania boasts diverse geography ranging from pristine beaches to rugged mountains. Its capital city, Tirana, serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub, while major coastal cities like Durrës, Vlorë, and Shkodër attract visitors with their charming waterfronts and historical sites.
Main Cities:
Durrës, Vlorë, Shkodër
Bordering Countries:
Albania is bounded by Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, North Macedonia to the east, Greece to the southeast and south, and the Adriatic and Ionian seas to the west and southwest.
Local Languages:
Albanian, English
Local Currency:
Albanian Lek
Weather / Seasons:
Albania has a typically Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters with abundant precipitation and hot, dry summers. The annual mean air temperature varies widely over the territory from 7°C in the highest zones to 15°C in the coastal zone. In the southwest, temperatures can reach up to 16°C.
Visa Requirements:
General requirement in country
The typical processing time for a Film Crew Schengen Visa is approximately 2 weeks (15 days). However, in exceptional cases, consulates may take 30-60 days to make a decision on an application.
Required information/documentation for application
Letter from the film company, including:
- Name of the film company
- Name of the film
- Location of the set
- Synopsis
Timings
Approximately 2 weeks (15 days).
Cost
± 80 EUR
Visa application link (If App)
Schengen Visa for Film Crew
International Crew Accreditation:
General accreditation requirements
Letter of request stating intention to do a documentary film, accreditation of the production crew.
Required information/documentation for application
- List of production crew members and their designations
- Itinerary of the filming crew and synopsis
Timings
Generally, accreditation takes 1 to 3 weeks.
Cost
To be confirmed (TBC).
General Film Permit:
What organization issues the permits?
The municipality is responsible for issuing film permits.
Required information/documentation for application
A formal detailed request is required, along with additional documentation depending on the country.
Timings
1 to 3 weeks.
Cost
The cost of the film permit depends on the location and time of year.
Private Locations:
General Process
Detailed information is required, and permissions are typically issued by Albanian entities.
Cost
The cost depends on the location and season (tourist season).
Drone Permit:
Drone regulations
Accreditation from the Albanian Authority Aviation is required.
Drone importation regulations
You should have a “Carnet” or Merchandise Passport for your drone equipment before entering Albania.
What organization issues the permits?
Albanian Authority Aviation.
Required information/documentation for application of local drone
You must register your drone with the ACAA and fly it only in designated areas.
Timings
Generally, accreditation takes 1 to 3 weeks.
Cost
Rules, regulations, and costs are constantly changing.
Equipment Customs Clearance:
Is it a Carnet country?
Yes, Albania became a party to the Customs Convention on Carnet (ATA) for the temporary import of goods. ATA Carnets are accepted for transit but not for postal traffic or unaccompanied goods.
General process for Carnet country
You need to declare the carnet at the customs office if required.
Required information/documentation for equipment customs clearance
ATA Carnet.
What organization issues the clearance?
For information on obtaining an ATA export document, please visit the following ATA Carnet websites:
Timings
Requires 1 week for clearance processing.
Cost
Depending on the gear list.
Safety & Security:
General in-country overview
Albania is considered an extremely safe country.
Type of Security required
None needed; it is considered a low-risk country.
