FAQ

General FAQs

General FAQs

  • What is the first step to shoot in Maharashtra?

    You need permission from the local governing bodies to shoot at any location in Maharashtra. International Applicant need to apply with Ministry of External Affair for J/F Visa first to get shooting permit in India, followed by approval from local governing bodies.

  • Do I need to apply in multiple departments for filming permission in Maharashtra?

    If your targeted location falls under a state government department, you can apply online on Maharashtra Film Cell, which will coordinate with other stakeholder and issue permission. In case of private location, you may need to seek the permission of the property owner and other relevant government department permissions.

  • Do I need Visa to shoot in Maharashtra?

    If you are not an Indian citizen or permanent resident you will need a temporary visa to shoot in Maharashtra. International Applicant need to apply with Ministry of External Affair for J/F Visa first to get shooting permit in India, followed by approval from local governing bodies.

  • Do I need to apply send a copy of application to MFC Office for filming permission?

    No, the process is completely online and you do not need to send application to MFC office.

  • How many days will it take to get filming permission in Maharashtra?

    It can take up to 15 working days for filming permission.

  • Can I apply for filming permission on public and private properties?

    As of now, you can only apply for location owned and maintained by state government departments.

  • Do I need a visa to work on a production in India? What type of Visa will I get?

    If you are not an Indian citizen or permanent resident, all staff in the Indian entertainment industry will need a temporary visa to stay or work in India. Foreign nationals coming to India to shoot/film a feature Film / commercial TV serials / TV series / reality TV show / web series may be given ‘F’ visa, provided the Ministry of I&B has approved the project / proposal. To shoot/film ad films / AV commercials / documentary films foreign national may be given ‘J’ visa.

  • Do I need production insurance before applying for permission?

    No, you do not need insurance while applying for permission. After receiving the permission productions houses usually obtain specialised insurance to cover their specific production.

  • Do I need a location manager to shoot in Maharashtra?

    It is solely the discretion of production houses to appoint a location manager. MFC is only responsible for facilitating filming permission and do not officially list or endorse any location managers.

  • Do I need filming permission for a small crew?

    Yes, you need permission to film irrespective of the crew size

  • Do I need special permission to involve animals during filming?

    Yes, you may need to seek permission from Animal Welfare Board in case filming involve any animal. For more information please visit <> Animal Welfare Board

  • I have multiple email ID, which one do I use to register?

    It is recommended to use your official email ID at the time of registration, as all the important information regarding your application, change of password and financial transactions would be sent to the registered email ID. Email ID once registered cannot be changed.