Introduction
Hoodlum offers top-tier film fixer services in Guinea-Bissau, providing essential support for international production teams. With our deep local expertise and hands-on experience, we specialize in securing permits, scouting diverse locations, and assembling expert local crews to ensure a smooth and efficient production from start to finish. Our services extend beyond film to include stills photography, giving you comprehensive support for both moving images and still visuals.
Guinea-Bissau’s landscapes are as varied as they are captivating. From the lively streets of Bissau to the stunning natural beauty of the Bijagos Archipelago, the country offers a range of settings for any production. Whether you need dramatic coastal scenery, rustic rural landscapes, or urban shots, Guinea-Bissau provides the perfect backdrop for commercials, feature films, TV series, reality shows, documentaries, and still photography shoots.
Planning to film or capture stills in Guinea-Bissau? Hoodlum manages every logistical detail—from securing permits to finding the most fitting locations—ensuring that you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact us today to learn how we can make your production in Guinea-Bissau smooth, successful, and visually stunning.
Country Overview
Guinea-Bissau, offers filmmakers a unique fusion of history and natural beauty. From vibrant urban settings to pristine, untouched nature, Guinea-Bissau provides a range of locations perfect for any film or stills photography project.
The Bijagos Archipelago, with its untouched islands and traditional villages, offers a tranquil and natural setting, while the lively streets and markets of Bissau offer an authentic glimpse into the country’s daily life. Guinea-Bissau’s landscapes are varied, from the lush forests of Tombali to the historical sites like colonial-era forts, giving filmmakers a rich canvas for storytelling.
The fusion of African and Portuguese influences is reflected in Guinea-Bissau’s architecture, music, and traditions.
Whether you’re planning a shoot on the beach, in the capital, or deep in nature, Hoodlum Film Fixers takes care of all the logistics—from securing permits to location scouting and crew assembly—ensuring your Guinea-Bissau production runs smoothly. Let us help bring your creative vision to life in this extraordinary country.
Bordering Countries:
Guinea-Bissau borders Senegal to the north and Guinea to the south, with its Atlantic Ocean coastline featuring the Bijagos Archipelago, which consists of 88 islands.
Main Cities:
Bissau, Bafatá, Gabu, Canchungo, Farim, Cacheu
Local Languages:
Pular is the most widely spoken (35%), followed by Maninka (25%) and Susu (18%)
Local Currency:
West African CFA franc, XOF
Climate:
Guinea experiences a generally hot and humid climate, with monsoon-type seasons from June to November, characterized by south-westerly winds. The dry season lasts from December to May, accompanied by north-easterly harmattan winds.
International crew accreditation
General accreditation requirements
To film in Guinea-Bissau, a filming permit is required, regardless of whether the project is for commercial or non-commercial purposes. The type of filming, location, and specific regulations around filming licenses can vary. It is essential for Hoodlum Ivory Coast to contact the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Communication, Tourism, or Culture, to determine the necessary licenses and authorizations for your project.
Processing Time:
3 to 5 working days
General Film Permit
Which Organization Issues Filming Permits?
Home Affairs Office
Ministry of Tourism
Processing Time
2 to 3 weeks
Required Documentation for Filming Permit Application:
- Letter requesting authorization
- List of filming equipment
- Shooting locations
- Production duration
Private Locations
These are privately owned locations and the owner is contacted by Hoodlums Fixer and negotiates the terms and rates
Visa Requirements
General Requirements for Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau is open to foreign visitors, but a visa is required unless the traveller is from one of the countries on the visa-exempt list. Visas can be obtained in one of two ways:
Foreign Diplomatic Missions / Guinean Embassies and Consulates:
You can apply for a visa through the Guinean embassy or consulate in your home country.
Online Visa Application:
You can complete an online pre-enrolment form, also known as the online visa application.
Visa on Arrival:
Visitors from select countries may be eligible for a visa on arrival. These travellers do not need to secure a visa beforehand and can obtain one at the entry point. The visa becomes valid as soon as it is issued and allows for a stay of up to 90 days, after which the holder must depart.
Note: It is advisable to confirm your eligibility and visa requirements prior to travel. Applying for a visa well in advance of your planned travel dates is recommended to allow sufficient processing time.
Visa Application Link:
Visa Application for Guinea-Bissau
Required Documentation:
- Completed application form, signed by the applicant
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Two passport-sized photos
- Vaccination certificate
- Appointment letter confirming the details of your visit (received after booking your appointment)
- Original, valid photo identification
- Travel document (mandatory)
- Supporting documents for online visa application
Processing Time:
Visa on Arrival: Instant at the airport
Consulate Application: Approximately 3 working days
General Film Permit
Permit Issuing Authority
Film permits are issued by Baraza La Sanaa & Film Board Zanzibar through a local fixer.
Processing Time
The permit can be issued immediately or within 1-2 days after payment is made for the film permit.
Required Information and Documentation for Application
- Completed film permit form
- Shoot synopsis
- List of filming equipment
- Filming locations
- Production duration
Cost
The film permit fee is $1,000.
Hoodlum Film Fixers is here to assist with the entire permit application process and handle the logistics, ensuring your Zanzibar production runs smoothly and efficiently.
Private Locations
General process
Film Permit – application for a location permit in certain areas.
Drone Permit
Drone Importation Regulations
A list of filming equipment, including drones, must be submitted to the airport’s customs office for authorization before importing into Guinea-Bissau.
Which Organization Issues Drone Permits?
Airport Customs Office
Required Documentation for Local Drone Authorization
Authorization must be filed with the Ministry of the Interior, specifying the filming dates, locations, and times.
Processing Time
2 to 5 working days
Equipment Customs Clearance
Is Guinea-Bissau a Carnet Country?
Yes, Guinea-Bissau is a carnet country.
General Process for Carnet Countries
- Submit an import request for filming equipment.
- Provide a detailed list of the filming equipment.
- Include the value of the equipment.
Required Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance
- Import request for filming equipment.
- Detailed list of the filming equipment.
- Value of the equipment.
Which Organization Issues the Clearance?
Airport Customs Department
Processing Time
3 to 5 working days
Safety and Security
General Overview
Safety precautions are crucial to protect the well-being of both the crew and equipment. Due to occasional political instability and crime, particularly in urban areas, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and stay informed about the local security situation.
Type of Security Required
Engaging experienced local fixers and security personnel is recommended, as they can offer valuable insight and assistance in managing potential risks.
