Country Overview
Benin is a West African country that borders the Gulf of Guinea. It was formerly known as Dahomey, and its capital is Porto-Novo. Benin is one of the poorest countries in the world, but it is known for being one of Africa’s most stable democracies. Hoodlum Film Fixers provides expert film fixer services in Benin, ensuring a seamless production experience for international crews.
Bordering Countries:
Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east and Burkina Faso and Niger to the north; its short coastline to the south leads to the Bight of Benin
Main Cities:
Porto-Novo, Abomey, Cotonou, Parakou, Bohicon, Djougou, Save, Godomey, Ketou
Local Languages:
French
Local Currency:
West African CFA franc
Climate:
The rainy season lasts from May-November, the dry season is from December-March
Visa requirements
General requirement
The Government of the Republic of Bénin requires visitors to obtain a visa prior to or upon entering the country.
Visa application
Apply at your nearest Benin Embassy or online through the newly introduced E-visa system
Application requirements
Valid passport; recent photograph; bank statement; proof of return ticket
Processing time
1-2 working days
Visa fees
Up to $200
Health requirements
Yellow fever vaccine card; Covid-19 vaccine (recommended)
International Crew Accreditation
General requirement
International crew members must obtain accreditation from the Bureau Béninois des Droits d’Auteur (BUBEDRA)
Required documents
Shooting program; crew member list; passport copies
Timing
4 weeks
General Film Permit
General requirements
To film at airports, harbours, private places, and national heritage sites, you must submit:
- Scenario; film permit; substantiating documents (as required). Additional authorizations may be necessary for certain locations.
- National Heritage Sites: fixed prices apply
- Open places: Cast release forms required, but locations are covered under the film permit
Timings
4 weeks
Application documentation
Shooting program; crew member list; passport copies; cities and dates of filming (in the application to be sent to the ADAC DG)
Permit fee
$200
Permit issuance
Director General (DG) of the Agence de development des arts et de la culture (ADAC)
Benin Drone Regulations and Permit Guide
Drone regulations
Drone usage is permitted with a valid shooting permit, which covers all filming equipment, including drones and cameras.
Drone importation regulations
Drones are allowed for importation, but prior organization is necessary.
Permit issuance
The National Civil Aviation Agency in Cotonou issues the permits.
Application requirements (Local Drone)
Drone ownership authorization
Completed National Civil Aviation Agency form
Declaration of flight zones and dates
Application requirements (Drone importation)
Drone authorization from your country with specifications or contact details
Hoodlum Benin will complete the form at the Civil Aviation Agency in Benin
Timings
Applied with film permit
Cost
No additional charge, included in the film permit
Equipment Customs Clearance
Is Benin a Carnet country?
No
Customs clearance process
Submit an equipment list with serial numbers and values
Required documentation
Covered in the film permit, with no additional costs
Clearance issuance:
National Civil Aviation Agency
Timings
Clearance processing time: 3-4 weeks
Safety and security
Benin is generally a safe country to visit, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty street crime is prevalent, and visitors should exercise caution and take necessary precautions to minimize risk.
Regional security
Cotonou and surrounding areas have robust security, but the northern regions near the borders with Burkina Faso and Niger pose a higher risk due to terrorist activity.
Security requirements
Hire security guards for protection in high-risk areas.
