MIB issues guidelines for foreign filmmakers to shoot film, TV series in India

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has issued guidelines for foreign filmmakers to shoot feature films, TV serials and reality TV shows in India. The Ministry recently set up a Film Facilitation Office (FFO) with a view to promote and facilitate film shootings by foreign filmmakers in India.

The functions of the Office includes acting as a facilitation point for the film producers in assisting them to get requisite permission, disseminate information on shooting locations and the facilities available with the Indian film industry for production/ post production and work closely with State Governments in assisting them to set up similar facilities. The FFO is housed in and operated by National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).

Foreign filmmakers who want to shoot their films in India need to submit four copies of the script and a synopsis of the script, which will be scrutinised by an expert from a panel constituted by the MIB. If considered necessary, to facilitate the shooting, a liaison officer may be attached to a film shooting team, whose expenses would be borne by the Government of India.

Permission to shoot would normally take around three weeks to process. The permission letter issued by the Government of India will facilitate permission from other local authorities, which may, in some cases, need to be obtained directly from these authorities.

In case the film requires shooting in the sensitive areas of Jammu and Kashmir, the North Eastern India or border belts, and/ or restricted/ protected areas, the application will be considered for specific approval in consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

In case the film is being made as a co-production, a copy of the agreement between the foreign filmmaker and the Indian party indicating the role of each party, its responsibilities and liabilities, need to accompany the application.

A demand draft of US$225 (equivalent Indian Rupee) in favour of Pay & Accounts Officer, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, also has to be attached with the application.