Filming Permit in Indonesia – Complete Guide UPDATED

good times
Apr 14, 2021
4 min read

Updated: Sep 25

Last Update: September 2025

If you're planning to film in Indonesia, obtaining the proper permits and visas is an essential step to ensure a smooth and legal production. Whether you're shooting a commercial, documentary, feature film, or even photography, understanding the current regulatory landscape is crucial. Indonesia’s film permit system has evolved recently, particularly with new visa requirements and upcoming regulatory improvements.

But worry not, as a creative agency based in Indonesia, we understand you and would like to help inform you on the general information. This guide unpacks everything foreign filmmakers must know in 2025!

Why Do You Need a Filming Permit in Indonesia?

Filming permits are compulsory for any foreign production team working in Indonesia to:

Ensure compliance with Indonesian laws and cultural norms.
Protect sensitive environments and heritage sites.
Coordinate logistics with local authorities.
Facilitate legal entry for foreign crew members through film-specific visas.

Operating without official approval risks fines, equipment confiscation, or production shutdowns. The process also helps safeguard Indonesia’s cultural integrity and promotes a positive environment for filmmaking tourism.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (specifically the Directorate of Film) is the main authority responsible for issuing film permits. Recently, the Film Visa (C14) was introduced and is now mandatory for foreign film crews entering Indonesia. This visa aligns with the film permit process and must be secured before arrival.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Obtain a Film Permit and Visa for Indonesia in 2025

Step 1: Prepare Your Documentation Carefully

You need to compile a comprehensive set of documents to support your application:

Corporate profile of your production company.
Detailed crew list with names, positions, and passport copies.
Synopsis or script outline of the project.
Shooting schedule and precise locations.
Full list of equipment, including cameras, drones, and related gear, with a written commitment to re-export equipment after filming.
Cooperation agreement with an Indonesian production partner or licensed fixer.
Signed affidavit promising adherence to local customs, laws, and norms.
Personal bank statements (minimum USD 2,000 for individual crew members applying for visas).

Step 2: Submit Your Application Via the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate

Applications must be filed through the Indonesian diplomatic mission in your country or region. This submission includes your full documentation set and a formal letter of intent addressed to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

During submission, maintain professional and clear communication; this can significantly affect processing times and outcomes. It's also necessary to include your Indonesian fixer or local sponsor in communications to expedite follow-ups.

Step 3: Application Review and Film Permit Approval

Once received, applications undergo a two-part review:

Administrative check: Ensuring all documents meet technical standards.
Substantive review: Ministry officers evaluate content for cultural sensitivity and appropriateness.

Decisions usually take about 4–8 weeks, depending on the complexity and location of the shoot. Certain filming sites, especially protected natural or cultural heritage locations (like national parks), may require additional permits from regional or environmental authorities.

The Film Development Center will issue your official film permit once approved. This permit specifically covers filming dates, locations, and equipment declarations.

Step 4: Secure the Film Visa (C14)

With the film permit in hand, your crew members apply for the C14 Film Visa, which allows legal work status for filming activities in Indonesia. Visa processing takes approximately 10–14 working days.

Documents required include:

Scanned passports valid for at least six months.
Passport-sized color photos.
Bank statements proving sufficient funds.
Film permit copy.

This visa must be obtained prior to arrival, and foreign film crews must be accompanied at all times by a licensed Indonesian fixer or production sponsor. The C14 visa differs from the journalist or tourist visas previously used and specifically authorizes commercial film production work.

Step 5: Arrive and Begin Filming

Upon arrival, your fixer or local production partner will assist in managing any on-the-ground requirements such as customs clearance for imported equipment, coordination with local authorities and security, and adherence to environmental or cultural site rules.

Important Obligations and Compliance Tips

Respect local norms and traditions: Indonesian law mandates that foreign crews honor cultural sensitivities and local customs.
Submit a copy of your finished film: Within a reasonable timeframe, a copy of the completed project must be provided to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for non-commercial archival purposes.
Notify for location or schedule changes: Any alterations in shooting location or dates must be communicated in writing at least seven business days before the change.
Work only with licensed fixers: These entities are registered and approved by Indonesian authorities to support foreign productions legally and efficiently.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Lengthy processing times: Starting the application process at least two months before the shoot date is highly advisable, considering possible delays during Indonesian holiday periods and inter-ministerial review schedules.
Document completeness: Incomplete or unclear applications are a common cause of rejection. Engaging experienced production service companies or fixers improves success rates.
Permits for special locations: Filming in conservation areas or historical sites will need separate local authority permissions, sometimes taking additional weeks.

Why Work With Spin Productions?

Since 2007, Spin Productions, creative agency based in Jakarta and Bali, has specialized in guiding international filmmakers through Indonesian regulations. We provide end-to-end support from permit application to on-the-ground production assistance, ensuring your film project complies with legalities and runs smoothly.

By carefully following these updated steps and requirements, filmmakers can navigate Indonesia’s legal framework confidently while contributing to the vibrant local cinematic landscape.