A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Bangladesh
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Bangladesh: What You Need to Know
You will need to have all your film permits in place before you arrive in Bangladesh to shoot your project. However, the headache for many international media teams, video makers and streamers is that the country does not have one central office where you can get all of these permissions rubber-stamped. Instead, you will need to apply to the
Bangladesh Film Certification Board, but also to any local authorities if you’re planning filming locations at specific sites. These sites can include:
• Marketplaces and other public spaces
• Heritage complexes
• Historical sites
• All high-security areas
Don’t take too long in applying for your permits, either, as it can take up to four weeks, or even longer, depending on what and where you’re shooting for the permits to come through.
Timing Your Bangladesh Film Production around the Weather
The monsoon season in Bangladesh begins in June and lasts all the way through October. If you’re filming at this time, be prepared for days that are wet and humid, and occasionally stormy. We recommend shooting your video project between November and February. During these months, you can expect less rain and cooler days. Temperatures, along with the humidity, start to rise from March onwards, with regular heatwaves keeping people off the street. In 2024, the heatwave’s “felt” temperatures reached a sizzling 47°C (116.6°F), which just makes any kind of film shoot out-of-doors an impossibility.
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for a small camera kit or a larger, more complex list of filming gear, renting it all on the ground in Bangladesh is the best way to go. You will find an extensive selection of cameras, as well as lighting and sound equipment, at good, competitive prices.
If you’re also keen to hire experienced, English-speaking crews, that won’t be a problem either. And the prices such teams charge are again very moderate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
No, it is not.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
Yes.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
If your team is small and working on a “non-sensitive” project, you just need to get your visa on arrival. Larger crews and video projects will likely require journalist visas.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
Not necessarily, but it is highly recommended that you work with a local film fixer to help with the process of accreditation and all other filming needs.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes, you will need a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority Bangladesh if your drone is equipped with a camera for filming.
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
No.
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
Yes. But get prior permission from the Forest Department or the relevant authority first.
Working with Fixer Bangladesh
At Fixer Bangladesh, we know that each film and video project is unique. But with our end-to-end production support, we can give you the bespoke service that you desire. We’ve worked with top clients, including the environmental NGO group, LEDARS, DKSH Healthcare, and Prosieben TV, alongside various tour companies and fashion houses, providing everything from location scouting, field production, drone operations, kit and transport management, and more.
