Filming License Application
Visitor Services
By law, all foreign production crews must engage an accredited Local Film Agent registered with the Ministry to facilitate their application, logistics, and local permits.
Under the Films and Stage Plays Act (Cap. 222) of the Laws of Kenya, all foreign production companies, journalists, and independent filmmakers from the Philippines intending to shoot commercial videos, feature films, or documentaries in Kenya must secure a formal Filming Permit.
Core Application Requirements
The following documentation must be submitted via your registered Local Film Agent to the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB):
- Formal Application Letter: Written by the production company or media house.
- Completed KFCB Form: Duly filled and signed application form.
- Creative Assets: Full script and synopsis (for feature films/dramas) or a storyboard and detailed treatment outline (for documentaries and commercials).
- Crew Dossier: A complete list of all foreign crew members, detailing their full names, nationalities, and passport validity dates.
- Equipment Manifest: A comprehensive inventory listing all filming equipment to be imported temporarily, including item serial numbers and estimated values (in USD).
Mandated Statutory Approvals Workflow
Appoint a Licensed Local Agent
- Select and contract a registered Kenyan Film Agent. The agent acts as your legal liaison, submits your creative dossier on the KFCB eCitizen portal (kfcb.ecitizen.go.ke), and processes the standard statutory permit fees.
Customs Equipment Clearance
- Present your approved KFCB Film License and equipment manifest to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) at the port of entry. A non-refundable customs processing fee (typically 1% of the equipment value or a maximum cap) is levied.
Secure Special Immigration Passes
- Once the film permit is secured, all foreign crew members must apply online for a Special Pass (Temporary Work Permit) via the Department of Immigration Services. This must be accompanied by an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to departure from the Philippines.
Ancillary Permits & Specialized Clearances
Important Operational Clearances:
- Filming in National Parks: Subject to specific conservation tariffs managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
- Drone/UAV Operations: Aerial drone filming requires prior security clearance from the Ministry of Defence and an operational permit from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
- Public Spaces: Shooting on public streets or municipal markets requires a letter of "No Objection" from the respective County Government.
