Introduction
Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Cuba, streamlining the process for international productions with a full suite of services, including location scouting, securing permits, and connecting production teams with local talent and crew. Known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes, Cuba provides diverse filming opportunities for documentaries, feature films, and commercials. From the lively streets of Havana to the idyllic beaches and historical sites across the island, Hoodlum ensures a seamless production experience in this captivating Caribbean destination.
Let Hoodlum handle the complexities of filming in Cuba—from obtaining the necessary permits to finding the perfect locations—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact Hoodlum today to start your production journey in Cuba.
Country Overview
Cuba is a vibrant and visually stunning destination for film productions, known for its rich culture, colorful architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. With streamlined permits and local support from the Cuban Film Commission (ICAIC), it offers an attractive setting for filmmakers seeking diverse locations, from colonial cities to tropical beaches.
Main Cities:
Havana (La Habana), Santiago de Cuba, Camagüey, Holguín, Guantánamo, Santa Clara, Cienfuegos, Pinar del Río
Bordering Countries:
United States (to the northwest), Bahamas (to the northeast), Turks and Caicos Islands (to the northeast), Haiti (to the southeast), Dominican Republic (to the southeast), Jamaica (to the south), Cayman Islands (to the south)
Local Languages:
Spanish
Local Currency:
Cuban Peso (CUP)
Weather / Seasons:
- Spring: Gentle warmth and blooming flowers (March to May)
- Summer: Higher humidity and increased rain (June to August)
- Autumn: Comfortable warmth and harvest season (September to November)
- Winter: Mild and dry, perfect for outdoor activities (December to February)
Visa Requirements:
General Requirement in Country:
- Business Visa (Visa de Negocios): For commercial shoots, filming, or production – D6 Visa
- Only press projects apply online to the Embassy
- Local fixer to apply for crew members’ visa on arrival
- American passports take longer, between 40 and 65 days
- Visa Application Link
Required Information / Documentation for Application:
- Valid passport (3 months before expiration is considered valid)
- Completed visa application form (fixer completes the visa for all crew members on arrival; necessary details of each crew member will need to be provided)
- Proof of payment (fixer provides proof of payment on application on arrival)
- Film project documentation
- Crew list
- Equipment list
Timings:
15-20 days; the project takes 30 days to approve – passports are needed 30 days before the project
Cost:
$50 USD (for the press)
International Crew Accreditation:
No accreditation, only press. Project needs to be approved. All information needs to be submitted one month before the first day of filming, including passports for at least the main charges.
General Accreditation Requirements – For Press:
- Submit documents to Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC).
- Authorization from local authorities for filming in specific locations.
- Customs declaration for equipment.
- Compliance with Cuban regulations and laws.
Required Information / Documentation for Application:
Letter of Intent: Explaining project purpose, duration, and locations.
Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, sponsor letters, or financial guarantees.
Timings:
The processing time for international film crew accreditation in Cuba typically ranges from 10 to 30 business days.
Cost:
$200-$500 (Dependent on project type and duration)
General Film Permit:
What Organization Issues the Permits?
Instituto Cubano del Arte e Industria Cinematográfica (ICAIC)
Timings:
30 days
Required Information / Documentation for Application:
Film Project Synopsis: Brief summary of the project.
Budget Breakdown: Estimated costs.
Cost: These can vary depending on the type of project, but expect to pay around $220-$2,750 USD.
Private Locations:
General Process:
Research and location scouting
Secure location fees and agreements with property owners
Cost: These can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per day, depending on the location’s popularity and accessibility.
Drone Permit:
Only Cuban drones and pilots permitted. With drones that have a DOP – the DOP may be foreign.
Drone Regulations:
Obtain permission from ICAIC and the Cuban Civil Aviation Authority (Instituto de Aeronáutica Civil de Cuba, IACC)
Comply with international aviation standards and regulations
Drone Importation Regulations: N/A
What Organization Issues the Permits?
Instituto de Aeronáutica Civil de Cuba (IACC)
Required Information / Documentation for Application of Local Drone:
Drone Registration Certificate: Issued by IACC
Filming Schedule: Approved by ICAIC
Required Information / Documentation for Application of Drone Importation:
Commercial Invoice: Detailed equipment list with values
Export Declaration: From country of origin
Timings:
Upon presenting the project, the use of drone must be acknowledged – this is project dependent
Cost: $500-$2,000 (Valid for 1-6 months)
Equipment Customs Clearance:
Is it a Carnet Country? Yes, Cuba is a Carnet country.
General Process for Carnet Country:
Obtain a Carnet: Apply through an issuing organization (e.g., Automobile Association or national automobile clubs).
- Stamp and Counterfoil: Customs stamps the Carnet and removes a counterfoil, serving as proof of entry.
Required Information / Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance:
Film Permit: Authorization from ICAIC or other relevant authorities.
Crew List: Names, nationalities, and roles of crew members.
What Organization Issues the Clearance?
Aduana General de la República de Cuba (AGRC)
Timings: 3 weeks
Cost: 2% of the total cost of the equipment to be imported.
Safety & Security:
General Overview:
Cuba offers a unique and visually stunning location for film productions, with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. The Cuban government welcomes international productions, offering competitive incentives, streamlined permits, and access to local crew and equipment. Havana, the capital, is the hub for film production, with the Cuban Film Commission (ICAIC) providing support and guidance. English-speaking local fixers and production companies facilitate navigation of regulations and logistics. Cuba’s diverse locations, from colonial cities to tropical beaches, make it an attractive destination for film and television productions.
Type of Security Required:
Local Fixer/Production Assistant: Hire a trusted local to facilitate logistics and communication.
Secure Storage: Store equipment in locked facilities or hotels.
Recommended Security Providers:
Cuban Government-Approved Security Companies
Hoodlum Film Fixers uses local fixers with Security Expertise
