Ethiopia: The Best Filming Support in Ethiopia

Introduction

Welcome to Hoodlum’s guide to Ethiopia, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an exceptional location for film productions. From the dramatic highlands and vast deserts to ancient historical sites and vibrant city life, Ethiopia offers diverse backdrops that will bring any project to life. Whether you’re filming a feature film, documentary, or TV series, Ethiopia’s unique landscapes and cultural depth create the perfect environment for impactful storytelling.

At Hoodlum, we specialize in providing seamless production services, from navigating local logistics to securing permits, ensuring that your shoot in this region is smooth and successful. Let us help you tap into Ethiopia’s cinematic potential and create a truly memorable production.

Country Overview

This region is a landlocked country located in East Africa

Bordering Countries:

Kenya; Somalia; South Sudan; Sudan; Djibouti; Eritrea

Main Cities:

Addis Ababa: The capital and largest city
Adama: A city in the Oromia region, the fastest-growing cities in the country.
Mek’ele: The capital of the Tigray Regional State and one of the political hubs
Dire Dawa: One of the largest cities in Ethiopia.

Local Languages:

Amharic; Somali; Afar; Oromo; Tigrigna
A translator may be necessary when filming in Ethiopia

Local Currency:

Ethiopian Birr

Climate:

Best filming seasons: October to January (dry and mild) and February to May (mild and temperate).

Ethiopia Visa Requirements for Film Crews

General requirement:
Film crews can apply for a visa on arrival if they’re traveling without gear. Otherwise, they may enter as tourists.

Required documents:

A passport valid for at least 6 months
COVID vaccination certificate (not always required)

Timings:
Allow 2-3 weeks for visa processing

Apply Online:
If traveling from Europe or elsewhere, apply for an eVisa on the official website: https://www.evisa.gov.et/

International Crew Accreditation

Accreditation requirements:
No specific accreditation, but a journalist visa is required if entering with film gear

Required documents:

Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Invitation letter from sponsoring company (our agency)
Letter to Ethiopian Embassy with: Film title and purpose; Production company and crew details; Synopsis and shooting schedule; Equipment list with serial numbers; Contact person details in Ethiopia (our office)

Application process:

Submit documents to Ethiopian Embassy
Embassy reviews and sends to Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Hoodlum Ethiopia collects application and starts permit process
Media Authority sends documents to Immigration Office
Immigration Office issues visa and custom clearance letter
Crew member obtains shooting permit with portrait photo

Timings:
Allow 2-3 weeks for accreditation and visa processing

General Film Permit

Permit issuance:
The Ethiopian Media Authority issues general film permits.

Timings:
Allow 2-3 weeks for permit processing.

Required Documentation:

Project synopsis with locations
List of gear to be cleared into the country
List of international crew with designations and passport copies
Length of stay in the country

Private Locations: Exclusive Filming Opportunities

We arrange private location permits upon request. From luxurious villas to eye-catching landscapes, we’ll help you find the perfect private location for your film project.

Drone Permit in Ethiopia: Regulations and Application

Filming with drones? Navigate the regulations with Hoodlum Film Fixers.

Drone regulations:
Only local drones are permitted. Application is included in the film permit

Drone Importation:
Not allowed

Permit Issuance:
The Ethiopian Aviation Minister issues drone permits

Local Drone Application:
Submit a letter stating exact flying locations. Permit will be issued accordingly

Drone Importation Application:
Not applicable

Timings:
3 working days for local permit (included in filming permit)

Equipment Customs Clearance: A Guide

When filming in this region, navigating equipment customs clearance can be complex. Hoodlum Film Fixers provides a streamlined process to ensure your gear arrives safely and on time.

Carnet Status:
Ethiopia is not a Carnet country, requiring alternative procedures for equipment customs clearance.

Non-Carnet Country Process:
Equipment is inspected upon arrival and departure at airport customs.

Required documentation:

Equipment list with values and serial numbers
Completed application form

Clearance issuance:
The Ethiopian Media Authority issues equipment clearance.

Timings:
Allow 2-3 weeks for clearance processing.

Safety and Security: A Guide for Travelers

While safety concerns exist in certain areas, due to ongoing civil unrest and limited road access, many parts of the country are safe to visit. We recommend avoiding certain regions and opting for safe flights into Jimma, which can be arranged upon request.

Security requirements:

Depending on your travel itinerary, we may request security assistance from local authorities. Our experienced team will assess potential risks and provide guidance on mitigating them. We work closely with local authorities to ensure your well-being.

Ethiopia