Direct Answer
Most corporate videos do NOT require a FINAS permit. FINAS (Perbadanan Kemajuan Filem Nasional Malaysia) permits are primarily required for commercial films, TV productions, and shoots involving foreign crew or talent. Small-scale corporate video shoots with local crews typically don't need FINAS approval. However, filming in public spaces may require separate local council permits.
When You DO Need a FINAS Permit
- • Foreign crew or talent — any non-Malaysian personnel require a FINAS-endorsed work permit
- • Large-scale productions — crews of 15+ people filming in public areas
- • TV commercials for broadcast — TVCs intended for Malaysian television
- • Feature films and documentaries — commercial film productions
- • Foreign productions filming in Malaysia — international crews require FINAS approval
- • Drone filming in restricted areas — requires both CAAM and potentially FINAS clearance
When You DON'T Need a FINAS Permit
- • Corporate videos shot at your office/factory — private premises, small local crew
- • Interview and testimonial videos — small crew, controlled environment
- • Social media content — created by small teams for online platforms
- • Event coverage at private venues — hotels, convention centres (venue permit only)
- • Product photography and video — studio or office-based shoots
- • Internal training videos — not for public broadcast
Other Permits You May Need
| Permit Type | When Required | Cost | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| FINAS Production Licence | Foreign crew, large productions | RM200 – RM1,000 | 7–14 days |
| Local Council (DBKL/MBPJ) | Filming on public roads, parks, streets | RM100 – RM500 | 3–10 days |
| CAAM Drone Permit | Commercial drone flying | RM500 – RM1,500 | 5–14 days |
| Venue Permit | Hotels, malls, convention centres | Varies (free – RM2,000) | 3–7 days |
| Police Permit | Road closures, large outdoor events | RM100 – RM300 | 7–14 days |
FINAS Application Process
Register on FINAS Portal
Create an account on the FINAS online system. Your production company must be registered with SSM (Companies Commission of Malaysia).
Submit Application
Provide project details: synopsis, shooting schedule, locations, crew list (with IC/passport numbers for foreign crew), and equipment list.
Pay Fee & Receive Approval
Pay the applicable fee (RM200–RM1,000 depending on production type). Processing takes 7–14 working days. Approval letter must be carried on set.
Need Help With Your Video Project?
Malaysian production companies handle all permit requirements as part of their service. Get quotes and let them manage the paperwork.
Related Questions
What happens if I film without a required permit?
Filming without required permits can result in fines, equipment confiscation, and forced shutdown of your shoot. For public locations, local authorities (DBKL, MBPJ) actively enforce permit requirements. Your production company should handle all permits as part of their service.
Does my production company handle permits?
Yes. Professional production companies include permit management as part of their service. They know which permits are needed for your specific shoot and handle all applications. Permit costs may be included in the quote or billed separately.
Can foreigners film in Malaysia without FINAS?
No. Foreign production crews filming commercially in Malaysia require FINAS approval. This includes foreign directors, camera operators, and on-screen talent. Tourist/personal filming is exempt, but commercial use always requires proper documentation.