A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Bhutan
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Bhutan: What You Need to Know
Bhutan has very strict requirements for filming here, particularly if your video project is due to take place in a public or culturally sensitive place, such as Buddhist monasteries. You will need to apply for specific film permits, which tend to take 2-4 weeks for your local film fixer and the relevant ministry to process.
Certain paperwork must be included in your film permit application. These are:
• A project synopsis
• Crew and equipment lists (at least 40% of your crew must be Bhutanese)
• Passport copies for all team members
• A sponsorship letter.
Alongside the standard filming fees you’ll be expected to pay, all crew members must pay a daily tourist tariff.
In addition, you’ll also have to agree to a pre-screening of your content or production, if requested, and adherence to strict drone restrictions.
Timing Your Bhutan Film Production around the Weather
Bhutan has the four seasons of winter, spring, summer, and autumn/fall. The months of March to May, which are spring, and September to November, which are autumn, offer the best weather conditions for filmign outdoors. During these months, you can expect clear skies and mild weather.
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
If you do want to rent most of your gear here, it’s best to send your equipment list to your local production partner at the earliest convenience so they can check availability. Hiring equipment locally in Bhutan can be difficult as not all gear—especially high-end or specialised equipment—is readily available.
Bringing your own kit is often the most reliable option, but, again, as Bhutan is not an ATA Carnet country, other problems can arise. This is when having a local film production company like Fixer Bhutan comes in handy. We’ll help you process all necessary customs paperwork, enabling you to import full or specialized film kits into the country for the duration of your film project. Bhutan also has a very small pool of English-speaking local film crews and their fees tend to be higher than average.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
No, it is not. This means you’ll need full customs clearance for any equipment you bring in.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
Bhutan is a safe place for film crews.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
You will need a business visa to film in Bhutan, and it must be arranged through a local fixer or licensed Bhutanese company.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
All shoots must go through a local tours and travel company, which handles both visas and film permits. Your professional film fixer will guide you in this.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes you do. Permits must be obtained and adhere to airspace regulations. Costs for drone film permits may vary based on your requirements, but they are generally manageable.
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
No, there are no cash rebates or tax exemptions for filming in Bhutan.
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
If you want to shoot in a national park, you’ll need a special film permit and must follow the park regulations at all times.
Working with Fixer Bhutan
As one of Bhutan’s most experienced film fixers, you can rely on us for an extensive range of services. These include local field production, location scouting, sourcing permits and local access, logistics management, and more specific packages such as drone operator, translation services, kit rental and/or management, creative execution, and more.
We’re part of Storytailors, a world-leading global video production agency, and we’ve supported major commercial and corporate video productions across Asia and the world. Our regional portfolio includes successful projects with global businesses and broadcasters such as National Geographic, ProSieben TV, the BBC, History Channel, Under Armour, Adidas, UNICEF, Oracle, and more.
To ensure your Bhutan film production is a big success, partner with us—you won’t regret it!
