Filmmaking Process in Nepal

Filmmaking process in Nepal for foreign productions is particular but well documented. This article will summarize the procedure below to make it easier for readers interested in this topic.

Please note that filmmaking process in Nepal in only applicable to professional film crews and larger productions with advanced equipment and is not applicable to casual filmmakers.

Step 1

In the first step of film making process in Nepal, you will need to look for a local ground handling agency in Nepal that will act as your guarantor for the following permits and paperwork. This is a mandatory requirement.

Step 2

The local agency will then organize all necessary documents and submit the application form to the Film Development Board for the National Film Permit. This process takes around 7-10 days.

Step 3

You will need to check if you are to film in any national park, conservation area, or even some specific architectural sites and relics. You can check on this with your ground handling agency. Then you will need to separately apply for these particular permits at specific national parks or conversation area offices. These permits will also cost you money.

Step 4

If you are flying a UAV for filming, you will need permission from the Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Defense. The ground handling agency will require a copy of the pilot’s license or safety certification (issued by his home country or any institutions registered there) and apply for the permit. This process can take upwards of 15 days.

Once you have this permit, you must check if you will fly the drones in any restricted or protected area. If yes, you will again need to go to specific offices to get particular permits based on the previous UAV permit. This process will cost you money in terms of royalty.

Step 5

Before arrival, you should also consider pre-booking all your travel and logistical requirements with your ground handling agency. It might be tricky planning on the go, as information that serves the interests of the film crew is often limited. Your ground handling agency can do this for you and even help you save money in the end.

Additionally, if your ground handling agency is a production agency, they might help you with production planning, hiring talents, or even renting filming equipment. So choosing the ground handling agency becomes critical to your filming in Nepal.

Step 6

Now one last step film making process in Nepal remains. You must provide your ground handling agency with a summary of your filmmaking gear and equipment (including the valuation). The agency will then use this to apply for a customs exemption at the airport, ensuring that your inventory (especially in terms of advanced gear with a larger footprint) is not withheld.

We hope that this article helped inform you. !!!!