The key is the E-DBV—Brazil’s digital customs declaration for temporary equipment imports.  Here’s the lowdown:

 

What Is the E-DBV? The Electronic Declaration of Traveler’s Goods is a free online form that lets you bring gear into Brazil duty-free for your shoot. You’ll list every piece of equipment—make, model, serial number, and value—then get a barcode to present at customs.

 

How It Works: Step by Step

1. Fill Out the E-DBV Online. List every item (cameras, lenses, lights, etc.) with serial numbers and values. At the end you'll be given a form. Print it — you’ll need it at the airport. Make sure you mark down the option "Goods for Temporary Admission"!

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The website is pretty user-friendly and you'll be able to navigate it without any trouble. Foreigners only need to declare goods above 3,000USD, but we advise to declare it anyways! 

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At the end of the form, you'll be given a bar code that you'll need to show when you arrive.

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2. Arrival in Brazil: Declare at Customs. Skip the "Nothing to Declare" line—head straight to "Goods to Declare."Show your E-DBV and gear. Customs will verify the bar code and the declared equipments.

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3. Have your ANCINE registration with you — we'll provide you with one (learn more about it below). They don't always ask for it, but it's good to have just in case.

 

Just send us your gear list, and we’ll:

. Complete and submit your E-DBV error-free.

. Advise on tricky items (like drones or specialty gear).

. Ensure customs clears you smoothly—no surprises.

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We are here to help, so if you are unsure about bringing or renting, we can assist you in deciding the best cost efficient solution. 

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Registering your production with ANCINE

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Foreign productions filming in Brazil must register with ANCINE (Brazil’s National Film Agency) to operate legally and access incentives. A key requirement is that foreign producers must partner with a Brazilian production company—this local entity acts as your legal representative, handling ANCINE paperwork, tax compliance, and permits.

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When submitting the form we'll need:

1. Title;

2. Running time;

3. Type of production (advertisement or not);

4. Genre (fiction, doc, corporate or other);

5. Synopsis;

6. Output (16mm, 35mm, HD etc.);

7. Production location and schedule.

8. Production company's name and country;

9. Contract with local production company.

10. Passport number with scanned photo page;

11. If any equipment is being brought from overseas.

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Please note that ANCINE requires 5 business day for approval. Journalistic productions are exempt. We streamline this process by serving as your registered local partner, ensuring full compliance while navigating ANCINE’s bureaucracy. 

 

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