FILMING IN ZAMBIA
Filming in Zambia does require permissions and permits to be granted, it can be a daunting process without the help of professionals! The first thing you require to film in Zambia is a Film Permit that is issued by the government of Zambia, in particular the Zambian Film Board. We can assist you in completing the application form, putting together all information needed, getting it endorsed by your local Zambia Embassy, and then submitting it to the government for approval. Film Permits can only be valid for 3 months at a time. It is advised to give yourself as much time as possible to complete this process. If you have limited time, a rushed permit is possible however costs are much higher. A regular permit costs USD 1,000.
Equipment Freighting and Customs: If you choose Zambia as your filming destination you will most likely need to bring film equipment into the country. The best way to air freight the equipment is as ‘accompanied’ luggage on your flight. The other option is to air freight it as ‘unaccompanied’ luggage. The latter incurs more expenses, and the equipment can sometimes sit in customs at the port of arrival.
Temporary importation of film equipment falls under a Bond system in Zambia. You have the option of depositing the full value of the equipment with the Zambia Government for the duration of the shoot. On export you can apply to get this Bond money refunded. Temporary importation of film equipment falls under a Bond system in Zambia. You have the option of depositing the full value of the equipment with the Zambia Government for the duration of the shoot. On export you can apply to get this Bond money refunded.
Otherwise, film crews can pay a non-refundable 10% of the total value of the equipment to a freight agent who will allow you to use his Bond. This is a quicker and easier process. African Environments has a reliable and efficient Bond Agent whom we work with on most of our filming projects.
Other Permissions: Once we have obtained a Film Permit on your behalf there may be other permissions needed. Permission to film inside a National Park or Conservation Area, drone filming and night filming. It is important to bear in mind that Zambia is a developing country, one with many rules and regulations and therefore it is important to be properly guided through bureaucratic processes.
Film Fees apply within National Parks, Wildlife Areas and Conservation Areas. Depending on where you want to film, there will probably be a film fee for the area. National Parks and Conservation areas have fees specific to film crews that change regularly. Filming fees are a huge factor to any project budget therefore we recommend contacting us as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.