Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence
The Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for businesses distributing or exhibiting films classified as R21, M18, and NC16 in Singapore. The validity is agency-confirmed, with processing typically completed in 2 weeks.
- Processing time
- 2 weeks
- Issuing authority
- INFOCOMM MEDIA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (IMDA)
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Who needs the Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
- Required to operateDivision 59 — MOVIE, VIDEO, TELEVISION AND OTHER PROGRAMME PRODUCTION, SOUND RECORDING AND MUSIC PUBLISHING ACTIVITIES
Includes: 59111 Movie production, 59112 Production of advertisements, corporate videos and event videos, 59113 Production of dramas, variety shows and documentaries, 59114 Animation production
What's involved in getting the Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence permits businesses in Singapore to distribute and exhibit films, including videotapes, VCDs, and DVDs, specifically those classified as R21, M18, and NC16. This licence is essential for companies looking to operate in the film industry, ensuring compliance with local regulations regarding film content.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the licence can be granted, several conditions must be met. These include implementing age-compliant measures to restrict access to films based on their classification, a clear business proposition outlining the nature of the film distribution or exhibition activities, and detailed location maps of the premises where the films will be distributed or exhibited. These prerequisites ensure that the business operates within the legal framework established by the IMDA.
How the agency reviews and decides
The IMDA conducts a thorough review of the application, which includes assessing the provided documentation and ensuring that all prerequisites are satisfied. The agency may also arrange for inspections of the premises to verify compliance with age-restriction measures and other regulatory requirements. This review process is crucial for maintaining standards in the film industry.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence can stall for various reasons. Common issues include inadequate age-compliant measures that do not meet IMDA standards, incomplete or unclear business propositions, and insufficient or inaccurate location maps. Addressing these areas proactively can help prevent delays and ensure a smoother application process.
Required documents and prerequisites
Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:
- Age-Compliant Measures
- Age-Compliant Measures
- Business Proposition
- Business Proposition
- Location Maps
- Location Maps
Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating?
Yes, obtaining the Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence is essential for any business in Singapore that intends to distribute or exhibit films classified as R21, M18, or NC16. Operating without this licence could lead to legal repercussions.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed, your business can legally distribute and exhibit films that fall under the specified classifications. This opens up opportunities for engaging with a broader audience and participating in the film industry within Singapore.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating without the Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence can result in significant penalties, including fines and potential legal action from the IMDA. It is crucial to ensure compliance to avoid these risks.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for application rejection is the failure to meet age-compliant measures. Ensuring that all necessary restrictions and compliance protocols are in place before applying can help mitigate this risk.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for the Film (Distribution/Exhibition) Licence in Singapore, provided they meet all the necessary requirements and conditions set by the IMDA.
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Other IMDA licences
Aircraft Station Licence
The Aircraft Station Licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for the installation and operation of radio communication equipment on board Singapore registered aircraft. The licence is valid for 5 years, with processing typically completed immediately upon payment.
Arts Entertainment Licence
The Arts Entertainment Licence is issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for conducting various forms of arts entertainment in Singapore, including plays, concerts, and exhibitions. The licence is valid for specified dates and processing typically takes 20 working days from receipt of complete information.
Computer Online Service Licence
The Computer Online Service Licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for online news websites in Singapore that report on local news and current affairs and meet specific traffic criteria. Validity is agency-confirmed, with processing times available on the agency's website.
Enhanced Simplified Equipment Registration (ESER)
The Enhanced Simplified Equipment Registration (ESER) is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for specific short range and low power devices in Singapore, including wireless microphones and telecommand systems. The licence is valid for 5 years, with processing typically completed immediately.
Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (with Frequency)
The Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (with Frequency) licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for temporary exhibitions of telecommunication equipment using radio frequency in Singapore. The licence is valid for a maximum of 90 days, with processing typically completed within 10 working days upon submission of all required information.
Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (without Frequency)
The Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (without Frequency) licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for temporary exhibitions of telecommunication equipment in Singapore. The licence is valid for a maximum of 6 months, with processing typically completed within 10 working days upon complete submission of all required information.