If you are planning to shoot a movie or documentary in East Africa and have it on Netflix, we give you some tips on how to get filming licenses in Kenya and other necessary details.
Kenya has a nascent yet promising film industry attracting both local and international producers. Tens of films and documentaries have fully or partially been shot in the East African country. It is now easier to stream movies across the world and audiences are becoming more interested in cultures other than Hollywood.
How to get a film license in Kenya
The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) is in charge of issuing film licenses in Kenya. It is also mandated to regulate and classify any content showcased on the screens, TV, and play theatres.
The KFCB processes licences within 48 hours once you apply for it online. If you are planning to produce a short feature film, then your application is licensed within 25 minutes.
How much does a filming license in Kenya cost? This depends on the category of your production. There are three categories:
| # | Category | Fees (KES).) |
| 1. | Documentary, TVC/ Advertisement, Music Video, Corporate Video, Infomercial, Travelogue, short film, Testimonial, TV Series Episode, Webisode etc. | 5,000.00 |
| 2. | Full-length feature film, TV Series Per Season and Web Series Per Season | 15,000.00 |
| 3. | Filming fees per day | 1,000.00 |
You should plan well about the number of days you wish to film because the license expires immediately the period you indicated in your application lapses. However, you can apply for extension before expiry but you will still pay the daily fees on the number of extra days given.
Requirements for a filming license in Kenya
The KFCB will ask you for the following when you apply for a filming license:
| # | Category | Requirements |
| 1. | Documentary, TVC/ Advertisement, Music Video, Corporate Video, Infomercial, Travelogue, Testimonial, etc. | a Synopsis, Screenplay, Treatment, Script Outline, Running Order or Storyboard and shooting schedule |
| 2. | Full-length feature film, Short film, TV Series, TV Series Episode, Web Series and Webisode | A Synopsis, Screenplay and Shooting Schedule |
While these are requirements for all filmmakers, you will be required to work with a local film agent if you are a foreigner.
How to get a filming license in Kenya as a foreigner
You may not be able to get a filming license directly as a foreigner, but this can be facilitated by your local agent. The KFCB registers and certifies film production companies and individuals who can also act as agents for foreign producers.
Filming agent roles include facilitating your permit; arranging your entry through customs; scouting local locations; scouting required talent; sourcing for crew; sourcing for equipment; facilitating accommodation; organising other logistics.
You can easily find licensed film agents by checking the Kenya Film Commission database.
How to become a film agent in Kenya
All film agents and companies must have a KFCB permit of operation renewable annually. You should also be a Kenyan citizen and have a company registered under Kenyan law for you to get this permit. The requirements for one to become an agent are:
- Certificate of Registration/Incorporation of Company
- Kenya Revenue Authorty (KRA) PIN Certificate
- Professional Certificate in audio-visual media production/ film making
- List of Equipment (for those who own equipment ONLY)
- KES 12,000 (every annual renewal for the license costs the same amount)
If you want to become an agent, apply through the Kenya Film Classification Board website.
Using drones for filming in Kenya
Using drones is allowed during filming in Kenya. If your filming will require a drone for aerial shots, you must get a license from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). Foreigners are not allowed to operate drones in Kenya, that is why it is important for you to collaborate with a local production company/agent.
There are also restrictions on where drones can be used for filming, so your agent should get clarity and permissions from relevant authorities before starting to shoot. Otherwise, you will land into problems with law enforcers. This is especially sensitive in cities and towns or near security facilities in the countryside.
There are a number of certificates required before your application to use a drone is approved. These have varying fees and your local connect should be able to help you through the hurdles. Documents on regulations and fees for drone filming in Kenya can be downloaded from the KCAA website.
Other requirements for filming in Kenya
Getting a license from the KFCB may be the only requirement to shoot a film in Kenya, if the filming location does not overlap on the jurisdictions of other authorities. For instance, you’ve seen that you require clearance by KCAA for drone operations.
Likewise, you will require permits from bodies such as the County Governments to shoot in the streets of a city or town, Kenya Wildlife Service to shoot in the game parks, Kenya Forest Service to shoot in the game reserves, among other possibilities. Sometimes even residents may have to agree for you to shoot in some locations such as Karen. Just make sure you have all the necessary documents to avoid inconveniences.
The best places to get help when you are filming in Kenya
The Kenya Film Commission is charged with promoting the film industry to the outside world. They are the best people to help you achieve your dream, in case you need any help. They will guide on certified agents and production companies, locations, permits, and general and special requirements.
The Kenya Film Commission contacts
Phone contact is +254 020 2714073 / 4
+254 729 407497,733 650068
Email: info@filmingkenya.com
Complaints: complaints@filmingkenya.com
Office location: Jumuia Place,
Lenana Road, P.O. Box 76417-00508, Nairobi, Kenya.
The Kenya Film Classification Board contacts
KFCB phone contact is 0711 222204/ 0777753355 /020 22 50600
KFCB email is info@kfcb.go.ke
Office location is Uchumi House 15th Floor, P.O Box 44226-00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
