Overview
A Film Distribution Licence is required for anyone who wishes to carry on any business of distributing videos – videotapes, VCDs, DVDs etc. – whether or not the business is carried on for profit.
Types of Licences
There are three types of licence available:
· Film (General) Distribution Licence
· Film (Restricted) Distribution Licence
· Film Distribution Licence (Temporary)
Who is this for?
The Film (General) Distribution Licence is required for a business to distribute videos up to PG rating.
The Film (Restricted) Distribution Licence is required for a business to distribute videos up to M18 rating.
Each licence covers all distribution points owned by the same business. A security deposit will have to be furnished for a licence, regardless of the number of distribution points. The deposit will be returned upon licence termination or licence expiry.
The Film Distribution Licence (Temporary) is required for a business of an ad hoc distribution of videos. This is for those who do not have a one-year or three-year Film (General) Distribution licence or Film (Restricted) Distribution Licence to distribute videos. The Film Distribution Licence (Temporary) allows such a business to distribute (sell only) videos at trade fairs, night markets and other temporary outlets for a period of up to 30 days.
Applicants must also comply with the following conditions for the sale and marketing of restricted NC16 and M18 videos:
· Ensure compliance with the stipulated age requirements;
· Ensure that films rated NC16 and M18 and selected PG videos carry the appropriate consumer advice issued by the Board of Film Censors;
· Ensure that the display of publicity materials conform to the guidelines issued by the Board of Film Censors.
The above licences will cover all distribution points – including temporary ones at night markets and trade fairs, for example. However, sale of NC16 and M18 video at temporary locations such as night markets and trade fairs is not allowed.
Exceptions
A Film Distribution Licence is not required if you engage in any of the following activities:
· Importing, making and distributing cinematograph films;
· Solely importing and making videos;
· Importing and making videos for export only (not meant for distribution in Singapore)..
Fees
Film (General) Distribution Licence
1 year – $600
3 years – $1,500
A security deposit of $20,000 by cheque or a bank guarantee will have to be furnished.
Film (Restricted) Distribution Licence
1 year – $1,200
3 years – $3,000
A security deposit of $30,000 by cheque or a bank guarantee will have to be furnished.
Film Distribution Licence (Temporary)
Per day – $6 for a period up to 16 days
Flat rate – $100 for a period of 17 to 30 days
A security deposit of $5,000 by cheque or a bank guarantee for each distribution point will have to be furnished. Security deposit is capped at $20,000 for four or more distribution points covering the same licence period.
How to Apply
Any company or business registered with the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) may apply for a Film Distribution Licence. The applicant should preferably be in a managerial or executive position and is responsible for the film exhibition business of his company/organisation.
You can submit your application via the Online Business Licensing Service (OBLS).
Please click here to download the format of the bank guarantee.
A complete application will be processed within seven working days. Any incomplete or incorrect application may result in its processing being delayed.
Other Requirements
A business is required to update each new "permanent" or "temporary" distribution point without incurring payment of additional licence fee. However, MDA reserves the right to impose, at any time, an administrative fee for the addition of the "permanent" or "temporary" distribution point.