International Filming Guidelines for Video Production Houses Shooting in Bangladesh

1.1 Key advantages

• Affordable production costs compared to India, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia – without compromising on visual richness.
• Skilled, English-speaking crews used to working with international directors, DoPs, and producers.
• Diverse shooting locations within short travel distances: rivers, boats, and char lands, tea gardens in Sylhet, hill tracts, coastal belts like Cox's Bazar and Kuakata, Old Dhaka heritage lanes, and modern cityscapes.
• Strong documentary culture and NGO/INGO-friendly environment – ideal for social impact stories, development sector films, and human stories.
• Flexible logistics when you partner with an experienced local production house like Libanza Films.
• Cultural and ethnic diversity that offers layered narratives from urban youth to tribal communities, river people, and coastal life.

1.2 Ideal content types

Bangladesh is a natural fit for:

• Documentaries & social impact films
• Corporate films & industrial AVs
• TV segments & news features
• Travel, culture and food shows
• Branded global content & reality formats
• Fashion, lifestyle and music videos
• Human-interest stories & rural narratives

3.1 Core permission types

• General Filming Permission (Essential)
  Issued through the relevant government ministry/press body. Required for all foreign film, TV, and documentary projects.
• Location-specific Permission
  Needed for sensitive or managed locations such as: airports, railway stations, seaports, heritage sites, government buildings, and national monuments.
• Restricted Area Permission
  Mandatory for: Chittagong Hill Tracts, border areas, military zones, and protected natural reserves.
• Drone Permission
  Drone usage requires clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). Processing can take 7–21 days, depending on area sensitivity.

5.1 Bringing equipment from abroad

When importing your own gear, you will typically need:

• Detailed equipment list with make, model, and serial numbers
• Estimated value for customs documentation
• ATA Carnet (if available) or temporary import approval
• Supporting letters from Libanza Films confirming purpose and duration

Libanza Films coordinates with customs agents to reduce delays, help you clear gear efficiently, and exit the country smoothly after the shoot.

5.2 Local equipment rental

Bangladesh has a growing professional rental ecosystem. Through Libanza Films, you can access:

• RED and ARRI Alexa Mini camera systems
• Sony FX6 / FX9 and Blackmagic cameras
• Ronin and other professional gimbals
• Drone platforms (e.g. Mavic 3 Pro / Inspire series)
• LED and tungsten lighting, grip and rigging
• Location sound kits and multi-track recorders
• Reference monitors and DIT support

7.1 Cultural sensitivities

• Avoid filming military installations or sensitive infrastructure without permission.
• Seek verbal consent for close-up human stories; written consent for key characters.
• Dress modestly, especially in rural or conservative areas.
• Avoid disrupting religious activities or political gatherings.

7.2 Safety & security

Bangladesh is generally safe and welcoming for foreign crews. With Libanza Films, you can request:

• Security personnel for sensitive locations
• Controlled sets and access-managed environments
• Local guides and fixers who understand the community
• Reliable vehicles and drivers for city and remote travel

9.1 Payment methods

Most international clients pay Libanza Films via:

• International bank transfer (USD)
• Wise or similar international payment services
• SWIFT remittances
• Cash advances for in-country operating expenses (where required)

Tax waiver or reduced tax scenarios may be available for certain documentary or development projects. These are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

1. Step 1 – Initial briefing
   You share your concept or script, tentative schedule, crew list, equipment plan, and target locations with Libanza Films.
2. Step 2 – Proposal & planning
   We send a tailored proposal with budget, permit requirements, location options, and logistics plan that fits your editorial and financial goals.
3. Step 3 – Visa & permission support
   Libanza Films issues invitation letters, prepares permit applications, and coordinates with relevant authorities.
4. Step 4 – Arrival & on-ground coordination
   We arrange airport pickups, local SIMs (if required), hotel recommendations, and the first briefing meetings with your key crew.
5. Step 5 – Production
   Full execution with local and foreign crew coordination, location management, security, logistics, and daily call sheets.
6. Step 6 – Post-production (optional)
   Editing, colour, sound, subtitles, and final delivery handled by Libanza Films or in collaboration with your in-house post teams.