What are the permits and requirements for filming and photography in Ethiopia?

As a journalist, filmmaker, professional photographer, or media professional commissioned to travel to Ethiopia for reporting, documentation, or filming purposes, securing a journalist visa is essential.

Despite its apparent complexity, with proper guidance and assistance from a local fixer, the process can be simplified. By following these steps and furnishing thorough documentation, you can expedite the acquisition of your journalist visa for your assignment in Ethiopia.

Collaborating with a local fixer can enhance efficiency and ensure seamless execution of your project.

How to apply for a Journalist Visa:

Read below to find out all the details about how to apply for and acquire a journalist Visa.

Contact the nearest Ethiopian Embassy:

• Begin by reaching out to the nearest Ethiopian embassy or consulate in your region to initiate the visa application process.

Required Documents:

• Application letter on official letterhead, signed, and detailing:
• Name of the company.
• Names, passport numbers, and passport copies of all visa applicants, valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of entry to Ethiopia.
• Roles of each individual within the project.
• Nationalities of each film crew member.
• Purposes and title of the film or project.
• Duration of the shooting and exact locations where it will take place.
• Estimated production costs, noting that around 2% of the budget will be allocated to the Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority as a processing fee.
• Name and contact details of the local fixer and production company in Ethiopia.
• Passport-sized photos of all applicants.
• A kit list or carnet of all equipment being taken.
• List of equipment with serial numbers.
• Relevant supporting documents such as business licenses.
• A letter of support from the inviting media institution, not expired more than one week from the invitation date.

Additional Considerations for Aerial Photography/Filming:

• If planning aerial photography or filming with drones, airplanes, or helicopters, obtain advance permission from the INSA (Information Network Security Agency) and the Civil Aviation Authority. This information should also be included in your application letter.

Processing Time:

• Be mindful that the processing time for a journalist visa may range from two to four weeks. Therefore, it’s advisable to initiate the process well in advance of your intended travel dates.

Follow-Up:

• Stay in contact with the embassy or consulate regarding the status of your visa application. Be prompt in providing any additional information or documents requested during the processing period.

Final Approval:

• Once approved, the embassy will issue a letter of visa approval for your journalist visa. This document will enable you to travel to Ethiopia for your reporting, filming, or documenting purposes.

Visa Extension:

• Journalist visa can’t be extended.

How the processing of your filming & photography permit works:

• To provide an overview of the application process: You submit all required documents to the nearest Ethiopian embassy. The embassy oversees the processing, ensuring the submission of correct documentation. Subsequently, the documents are forwarded to the Foreign Minister of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa for further processing. From there, they are relayed to the Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority, which grants the necessary permits and issues a letter of visa approval for your journalist visa.

Additional Permit and Filming Fees:

After obtaining the filming or photographing permit from the Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority, additional fees and procedures are necessary based on the nature of your filming project.

• Local Permit: For filmmakers undertaking documentary filming, TV shows, or movie productions, the subsequent step involves the local production company drafting a support letter to the relevant Regional Tourism and Cultural Bureau corresponding to your shooting locations. This letter must be accompanied by the filming permit from the Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority.
• Payments: Substantial payments are required for your filming or photographing project, with the amount contingent upon the duration of filming and the number of locations involved.
• Final Letter: Upon payment, the Regional Tourism and Cultural Bureau will issue a support letter authorising your filming or photographing activities within the designated local area.