Indonesia is a film destination like no other. Stretching across more than 17,000 islands, this vast and visually rich country offers everything from dense tropical rainforests and active volcanoes to ancient temples and pristine coral reefs. Whether you’re shooting a feature film, documentary, commercial, or reality series, Indonesia provides unparalleled backdrops.

But shooting in Indonesia can be complex. Regional permit rules, customs processes, drone restrictions, and local crew regulations vary between islands. That’s why working with a reliable local partner is essential. At Atlas Film Fixers, we’ve helped international crews successfully film in Indonesia for years. Our fixers are based across Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Lombok, and the outer islands, ensuring seamless production coordination from coast to coast.

Iconic Locations Across Indonesia

Indonesia offers diverse looks across its islands, making it suitable for a wide range of genres and formats.

Bali is a perennial favorite. Beyond its beaches, the island boasts dramatic cliffs, rice terraces in Ubud, lush jungles, and temples like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot. Bali is also home to a well-established production ecosystem with experienced local crew and equipment houses.

Komodo and Flores are ideal for rugged, remote, and raw landscapes. Their red-sand beaches, savannah hills, and otherworldly coastlines provide high-impact visuals for adventure-based productions.

Java, particularly Yogyakarta, offers urban life mixed with tradition. The majestic Borobudur and Prambanan temples give projects historical and spiritual depth. Java’s volcanoes and highlands deliver stunning natural imagery.

Sumatra and Kalimantan are your go-to for dense jungle, river systems, and wildlife. These regions are excellent for nature and expedition-themed shoots, and local permissions are easier to obtain with the right contacts.

Raja Ampat and Papua are world-renowned for underwater cinematography. Crystal-clear waters, reef biodiversity, and island chains give you production value that few locations can match.

Film Permit Process

Filming in Indonesia as a foreign production requires approvals at both the national and regional levels.

• All foreign crews must apply through a local production partner for a shooting permit via the Indonesian Film Board or the Ministry of Tourism.
• Each province or regency may require separate regional permits.
• Sensitive locations such as ports, border zones, and military sites need special clearance from additional government bodies.
• For temples, forests, and national parks, separate applications must be submitted to the respective custodians.

Atlas Film Fixers handles this end-to-end, ensuring permits are in place before your crew arrives. We provide detailed timelines, local liaisons, and even assistance with film visa applications.

Drone Regulations

Indonesia offers stunning aerial opportunities, but drone use is tightly regulated.

• All commercial drone use requires licensing and advance permission.
• Flights over temples, government buildings, or military areas are strictly prohibited without high-level clearance.
• Drone pilots must be certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
• AirNav Indonesia must be notified for flights near any airspace.

We work with licensed local drone operators and coordinate with air traffic control to ensure full legal compliance and safe operation.

Customs and Gear Importation

Bringing equipment into Indonesia involves clear planning. Crews typically need to bring in cameras, drones, underwater housings, lighting kits, and other professional gear.

• A Carnet is not officially accepted in Indonesia. Instead, gear must be brought in under a temporary import license (PIB).
• All equipment must be inventoried and declared in advance.
• A local entity, such as Atlas Film Fixers, must act as the official importer of record.
• Processing time is typically 7–10 working days.

We manage all customs paperwork and coordinate directly with port authorities to minimize delays.

Local Crew and Production Services

Indonesia has a growing network of professional crew, especially in Jakarta and Bali. We can provide:

• English-speaking production coordinators, fixers, drivers, and location managers
• Licensed drone pilots, dive teams, and safety officers
• Equipment rental, casting, and costume sourcing
• Tech scouts, location permitting, and shoot logistics

We’re also experienced with island-based shoots and marine coordination, including boat hires, dive support, and safety supervision.

Film Incentives and Cost Savings

While Indonesia does not currently offer a federal cash rebate, productions can still benefit from competitive local rates and efficient local support.

Some provinces (such as West Java and Bali) are piloting local incentive programs in partnership with domestic production companies. Atlas Film Fixers monitors these developments closely and can help international producers structure partnerships that maximize savings and on-the-ground support.

Why Choose Atlas Film Fixers in Indonesia?

We are more than just facilitators—we are producers on the ground. Our team is fluent in Bahasa Indonesia, well-connected with national and regional authorities, and experienced in handling shoots ranging from intimate documentaries to large-scale scripted productions.

When you work with Atlas Film Fixers, you’re not just getting a service provider. You’re gaining a local partner who understands Indonesia’s terrain, bureaucracy, and culture—and who’s invested in helping you bring your vision to life.

Planning a shoot in Indonesia? Contact Atlas Film Fixers to discuss your production needs. From permits to drones, from jungle to reef, we’ll make sure your project runs smoothly and legally—on time and on budget.