Filming in Malawi

Filming in Malawi

Filming in Malawi has to be done with permission to film. This permission is acquired from the ministry of Information with the assistance of A local fixer. in Addition to the filming permit, you also need visas, location permits where required and import permits for your equipment.

Filming permit for filming in Malawi

The Malawi filming permit is issued out from the Malawi ministry of Information. The filming permit takes about 5 days to be approved and issued out. For your filming permit in Malawi to be approved, you have to present the following documents as you apply;

  • Description of the shoot
  • Details of crew members
  • List of equipment
  • Passport copies
  • Passport sized photographs

The filming permit in Malawi costs 200 USD and this fee is paid once application is done so that it can be issued out. For assistance getting a filming permit for filming in Malawi, contact our local Malawi fixer.

It is important to note that Malawi doesn’t not have any specific media accreditation and the filming permit works as accreditation for film crews filming in the country.

Location permits for filming in Malawi

In addition to the filming permit, different locations in Malawi also require film crews to get additional location permits. Places such as national parks, public places and private owned property always require you to have specific permission from that location’s administration for to be allowed to film there. For any assistance with getting location permits please contact us

Drone permits for filming in Malawi

Filming with a drone in Malawi has to be done with permission that is gotten from the Civil aviation headquarters. Filming in Malawi can be done with locally hired drones or imported drones with the help of a local fixer.  Provide the following documents for the drone permit application

  • Drone specifications
  • Drone operators Lisence
  • Application for temporary importation

Drone clearance into the country can take about 2 weeks and above and the drone clearance fees vary on the type of drone that is being imported into the country.

Rules and regulation for filming with drones in Malawi

When filming with a drone, it is crucial for operators to follow the law regarding drone flying to avoid any problems which may lead to confiscation of the drone. These rules include the following

  • Avoid NO FLY ZONES and restricted areas. These include the airport, The State house, Military and police posts and any other places that may be communicated to you in the process of application
  • Drones are supposed to fly at or below 400ft/122meters
  • Flying a drone has to be done only during daylight
  • Drone flying speed should be kept under 100mph
  • Do not fly directly over people especially when filming in public places.
  • When flying, ensure to yield right way to any manned aircraft.
  • When filming wildlife, don not fly so close to the animals

Visa for filming in Malawi

Filming in Malawi for foreign crews also requires you to have a visa which allows you entry into the country and this visa can be applied for online with the following documents

  • Passport that is valid for at least 6 months
  • Proof of yellow fever vaccination
  • Completed application form
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Flight itinerary
  • Passport sized photograph

Location for filming in Malawi

Malawi has some potential locations that can be considered or added onto your project. Below are some that are popularly sought out by film crews and can be filmed with the help of our fixers.

  • Lake Malawi.  This is the deepest lake in the country and offers opportunities to those who want to film water activities and need a backdrop of a waterbody.
  • Lilongwe.  The capital city of Malawi and the also the largest city. It is the administrative center and also a hub for economic development.  Location to look at in this city include the Lilongwe wildlife center, Kumbali cultural village, old town mall, Dzalanyama forest reserve and more.
  • Blantyre. This is also another developed city of Malawi and also the commercial and industrial centre of the city. The city is known for its architectural buildings and the history it carries. You can visit locations such as the chichiri Museum, The St Micheal and All angels church and many more.  
  • Zomba and Nyika Plateau. For those that are interested in highlands, these highland plateaus are great options.
  • Liwonde national park. Found in the south eastern part of Malawi, the park is home to several wildlife species such as Hippos, Elephants, antelopes, leopards and so much more.
  • Kasungu national park. Located north of Lilongwe, this is another location for those that are interested in filming wildlife. The park is home to elephants, hippos, buffaloes, Zebras , leopards and so much more.

Things to consider when filming in Malawi.

Work with a local fixer. Working with a local fixer when filming in Malawi makes the whole process easy. Our professional local fixers are available to assist along every step of the shoot. Our local fixers are available to help you plan and execute your shoot successfully in Malawi. From providing the necessary information in the planning stage, to acquisition of the necessary permits and logistical assistance during shoot days, our fixers are available to provide you with assistance.

Planning and preparation. is important for you to plan ahead of your arrival. As You plan you have to consider things like the time period that is required for you to get the necessary permits that are suitable for you shoot to avoid any delays and inconveniences.  In this stage, you have to look into different aspects such as the time, the fees that you have to pay for permits. Our local fixers are available to helping you with planning for your shoot

Way of conduct. Take into consideration the culture and the rules and regulations of the country. Malawi has several cultures that all have different ways and lifestyles and It is advised that you carry yourself in a way that is respectful to the government and the local people so as to have a successful shoot in Malawi.

Safety and Security. Filming in Malawi is safe as the country is generally secure. However  it is important for film crews  to take extra caution. It is important to hire security especially when you are filming in pubic and crowded places but also if you are filming in a remote location. For any assistance in hiring local security for your shoot, don’t hesitate to contact Africa fixers.

Fixer services in Malawi

Africa Fixers provides fixer services to crews and production companies that film in Malawi. Our local Malawi fixers are professional and well equipped to assist you with all your filming needs. Our fixer services in Malawi include;

  • Filming permit application
  • Location permits application
  • Customs clearance for equipment
  • Drone clearance
  • Transportation services
  • Equipment hire.
  • Local crew hire
  • Visa application
  • Location scouting and management

If you are planning to film in Malawi, please feel free to contact us for assistance at any stage of production for your profile. Our Malawi fixers are readily available to assist you.

Choose Africa Fixers.

Africa Fixers is a film Fixing Company that assists filming companies and Production agencies that are interested in filming in Malawi and several African countries. We are very capable of handling all fixer services required. Our team of local fixers and driver guides is very professional. Over the years, we have been able to get all relevant connections with other service providers and authority agencies to make sure that accreditation and filming permits are easily processed. Contact us now for details and all the relevant information you would like to know for successful filming in Malawi.