Filming in Nepal – Film Permit & Production FAQs

International productions: Permits are issued by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCIT).

Domestic productions: Permits are managed by the Film Development Board (FDB) – Nepal.

Official sites:
🔗 moic.gov.np
🔗 film.gov.np

International filmmakers should first hire a local coordinator or film production company like Kathmandu Films. We manage:

• Application and documentation
• Liaising with Nepali authorities
• Securing local permits and permissions
• On-ground coordination

A local coordinator supports with:

• Obtaining shooting permits
• Advising on tax, customs, and import duties
• Managing logistics, crew, and equipment
• Securing location permissions
• Serving as your production fixer in Nepal

You can:

• Work with a licensed production company like Kathmandu Films
• Refer to official lists at moic.gov.np or film.gov.np

You’ll need a permit for:

• Feature films
• Documentaries
• TV commercials
• Mini-series / TV serials
• Music videos
• Web series
• Reality shows
• Branded content

Scripts must not portray Nepal in a negative or offensive light, nor violate religious or cultural sensitivities.

You’ll need to submit:

• Letter from your assigned local coordinator
• Assignment letter from the foreign production company
• Completed application form

Supporting materials (depending on production type):

• Storyboard (for TV commercials)
• Treatment (for documentaries)
• Concept and lyrics (for music videos)
• Script and synopsis (for fiction or feature films)
• Detailed shooting schedule and locations
• Crew list with names, passport numbers, roles, and arrival dates

TV commercials / Documentaries / Music videos: 5–10 working days

Feature films / TV series / Fiction: 14–20 working days

Approval time depends on script complexity and locations, such as national parks or heritage sites.

The Ministry will review your script and application. If any part of the script is not acceptable, they will provide feedback or request revisions. Whether to revise is your decision, but changes may be necessary to obtain approval.

Yes. Your film must not:

• Offend Nepal’s religion, culture, or customs
• Threaten national security or public order
• Damage or harm natural or cultural heritage sites
• Portray Nepal negatively

Yes. Kathmandu Films offers:

• Professional film gear rental
• Customs clearance for foreign equipment
• Local crew hire, logistics, and transportation

Absolutely! We specialize in:

• Urban and rural location scouting
• Heritage, Himalayan, and jungle locations
• Permit coordination with conservation areas, national parks, and local municipalities

Our core team is fluent in:

• English
• Nepali
• Hindi
• Chinese

Some team members also speak Japanese, German, and French depending on project needs.