Getting Film Permits in Mexico

If you would like to film in Mexico, your fixer or local producer in Mexico will guide you on the process with the different permits you will need.. The film permits in Mexico vary depending on the state and venue you would like to shoot.

To proceed with your production plans in Mexico , your fixer needs to guide you in all the documentation needed from the beginning.  There are some documents you need to prepare from your country of origin that may take a few weeks. No matter the purpose or location of your production, you have to contact the film authorities in Mexico.

Granting the film permits in Mexico can take you up to a month. Archaeological sites , protected areas and natural reserves usually take more time. All the permits are accessible with the proper documents and time in advance.

Film Permits in Mexico

The Mexican Film Commission is in charge of regulating all the film permits. Each state has it’s own Film rules and permits. Since 2022, the Mexican Film Commission is asking that all the producers and fixers in Mexico should he registered in their system as a Certified Producer in Mexico in order to process any permit.

At VistaMotion Productions we help production and media companies, documentary filmmakers and other crews with filming requirements in Mexico. We have all the practical and legal permits when planning a film shoot in Mexico.

If you would like to film in certain  archaeological sites and natural reserves in Mexico, ask for a brief or presentation of your project . This presentation needs to show the benefits they will have if they let you film in their location. In the case of the Archaeological Sites and Natural reserves you will need to justify how they will benefit the Mexico Tourism.

Popular movies filmed in Mexico:

-       The Mask of Zorro

-        007 Spectre

-       Romeo and Juliet

-       Man on Fire

-       Titanic

-       Troy

Frequently Asked Questions about Film Permits in Mexico

-       Do I need a visa or work permit?

As long as the film project in Mexico is no longer than 180 days (6 months) you do not need a work permit or as long as the International crew do not get paid in México.

-       Can I rent film equipment once in Mexico?

One of our film partners at At VistaMotion Productions  has  the most complete  film equipment for rental in Mexico . We  can help you with any equipment you need, including cameras, drones of any size,  sound and lighting equipment. I f you need, we have a complete team of specialists that have work in any size of productions in Mexico.

How easy is it to get permits in Mexico?

At VistaMotion we have years of experience making the management of many film permits in different states, venues and archaeological sites

. The ideal time frame to get a permit is 4 weeks in advance if you want to film Archeological sites, protected natural areas or historic buildings. Depending on the selected site and the character of the project is the cost or it is just a small contribution to maintain the area.