Filming in

Ivory Coast

Address

Antre,
2 Plateux,
Cocody, Abidjan,
Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast: A Guide for International Film and TV Productions

Introduction

Hoodlum offers premium film fixer services in Ivory Coast, providing vital support to international production teams. With our extensive local knowledge and hands-on experience, we specialize in obtaining permits, scouting diverse locations, and assembling expert local crews to ensure a seamless and efficient production process from start to finish. Our services extend beyond film to include stills photography, giving you comprehensive support for both moving images and still visuals.

Whether you need vibrant urban shots, dramatic coastal settings, or picturesque rural landscapes, Ivory Coast offers the perfect backdrop for commercials, feature films, TV series, reality shows, documentaries, and still photography shoots.

Planning to film or capture stills in Ivory Coast? Hoodlum takes care of all the logistical details—from securing permits to finding the ideal locations—ensuring that you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact us today to learn how we can make your Ivory Coast production smooth, successful, and visually captivating.

Country Overview

Ivory Coast offers filmmakers a blend of urban vibrancy and diverse landscapes, making it an ideal destination for any film or stills photography project. From bustling city streets to expansive rural vistas, the country provides a wide array of locations to suit various genres and creative needs.

The coastal regions of Ivory Coast feature scenic beaches and fishing villages, offering quiet, yet striking settings for a range of productions. The capital city, Abidjan, boasts dynamic cityscapes, with modern architecture and lively streets that are perfect for urban scenes. For a more rural atmosphere, the dense rainforests and picturesque savannahs present ample opportunity for nature-centric shoots.

The country’s historical landmarks, such as colonial buildings and traditional villages, reflect its rich cultural tapestry, blending African and French influences.

Bordering Countries:

Ivory Coast borders Liberia and Guinea to the west, Mali and Burkina Faso to the north, Ghana to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean to the south

Main Cities:

Abidjan, Bouake, San-Pedro, Korhogo, Daloa, Abengourou, Divo, Ferkessédougou, Abobo

Local Languages:

French

Local Currency:

West African CFA franc

Climate:

Rainy season occurs from June to October, while the dry season is between the months of November to May.

Visa Requirements

General Requirements in Country

A visa application is required, the visa must be presented upon arrival in Ivory Coast.

Required Information/Documentation for Application

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months.
  • A passport photograph of each crew member.
  • Hotel booking confirmation details.
  • Flight details (arrival and departure).
  • Debit or credit card for payment.
  • Medical certificate and Yellow Fever vaccination card.

Processing Time

5-15 working days.

Cost

Costs vary depending on the visa option.

Ranges from $30 to $150.

Visa Application Link

Visa Application for Ivory Coast

International crew accreditation

General Accreditation Requirements

Accreditation is required for all international crew members.

Required Information/Documentation for Application

  • Production company profile
  • Script or synopsis of the project to be filmed in Ivory Coast
  • Passport scans of all crew members
  • Passport photo of each crew member
  • Visa scans for each crew member
  • Detailed equipment list, including serial numbers

Processing Time

3 working days

Cost

$350 per crew member

General Film Permit

Which Organization Issues the Permits?

The Municipal Council

Processing Time

5 to 10 working days

Cost

  • $500 for filming in regular public spaces
  • $1000 for filming in the city centre, including administrative buildings (excluding security buildings) *subject to change

Private Locations

Our local fixer will handle negotiations with the private owner.

Drone Permit

Drone Regulations

It is recommended to use a local operator and their drone.

Drone Importation Regulations

Bringing a personal drone is not advisable, as it may be seized at the airport without a valid drone permit.

Issuing Authority

Civil Aviation Authority of Ivory Coast

Required Information/Documentation for Local Drone Application

  • Drone make and serial number
  • Pilot license
  • Shoot synopsis, including locations where the drone will be operated

Processing Time

10 to 15 working days

Cost

Approximately $350 (subject to change without notice)

Equipment Customs Clearance

Is Guinea-Bissau a Carnet Country?

Yes, Guinea-Bissau is a carnet country.

General Process for Carnet Countries

  • Submit an import request for filming equipment.
  • Provide a detailed list of the filming equipment.
  • Include the value of the equipment.

Required Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance

  • Import request for filming equipment.
  • Detailed list of the filming equipment.
  • Value of the equipment.

Which Organization Issues the Clearance?

Airport Customs Department

Processing Time

3 to 5 working days

Safety and Security

General Country Overview

Ivory Coast is known for its welcoming and hospitable atmosphere. However, like in many places worldwide, petty theft can occur. It is advisable to take necessary precautions, particularly when filming on location.

Type of Security Required

General security presence on set to ensure the safety of crew, equipment, and production assets.

Mahktar Hoodlum
Ivory Coast

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