The Thailand Film and Video Act B.E. 2551 (2008) requires that any foreigner filmmaker who wishes to shoot a film, documentary, commercial, or any type of audiovisual production in Thailand must have a permit from Thailand Film Office, Department of Tourism.
Foreign filmmakers, before coming to Thailand, must ensure that they are legally eligible. To apply, the filmmaker must hire a local coordinator (company or individual) who is officially registered at the Thailand Film Office.
What is the role of the local coordinator?
The local coordinator represents the foreign filmmaker in order for him to acquire the permit, to assist him in any matter that may arise during or after the shooting of the film in Thailand, and to help him compiling the necessary documents for the Thailand Film Office. The local coordinator will work in conjunction with the foreign film company to facilitate the process, by acting as an intermediary between the committee of the Thailand Film Office and the foreign filmmaker.
The list of coordinators registered at the Thailand Film Office can be found in the “Local Coordinator” menu. Some of them are specialized in certain foreign languages. By law, individual coordinators are not eligible for big productions (TV series, film, etc.).
Filmmakers can make most arrangements themselves, but they will still need an official coordinator in order to obtain the permit. Shooting without a permit is violation of the law, and if caught, the film and equipment will be confiscated.
How to apply for the Thailand Film Office permit?
Required documentation:
- A letter by the local coordinator, informing the Director-General of Department of Tourism of the purpose of applying for a shooting permit.
- An assignment letter by the filmmaker stating the name of the local coordinator.
- The application form for film permit.
- Supporting documents depending on the type of production (storyboard, script, details of content etc.).
- The schedule of filming in Thailand with the exact dates and locations.
- The list of foreign film crews’ names, passport numbers, positions and arrival dates.
It usually takes 5 to 15 business days to acquire the film permit, and there are no fees.
Can a foreign filmmaker be his own coordinator?
Not exactly. It is possible for a foreign filmmaker to coordinate their own project in Thailand, however it’s often advisable to collaborate with a local Thai production company to ensure that all necessary permits, paperwork and legal requirements are handled properly.
Are there any restrictions in order to get the permit?
The script must not have any content that affects national security, public order, and the shooting must not damage the environment. In case where the script is not approved, the Film Board may ask the filmmakers to revise it.
In order to shoot in restricted areas as National Parks, Historical Parks, Grand Palace or temples, the local coordinator will contact the relevant authorities in order for the filmmaker to acquire the additional permits, which might include location fees.
What type of visa should the foreign film crew apply for?
The foreign film crew should apply for a Non-Immigrant M Visa. This type of visa is valid 90 days from the date of issue. The work permit is also needed, unless the staying does not exceed the 15 days. Work permit applications can be obtained from Alien Occupational Control Division, Department of Employment.
What if the shoot does not exceed 15 days?
If the shoot lasts less than 15 days, the filmmaker can apply at the One-Stop-Service-Center to obtain a shooting permit, permission to work, and additional permissions to film in National or Historical Parks. The required documents are the same as for the Thailand Film Office procedure.
