Burkina Faso

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Burkina Faso, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Burkina Faso

Capital

Ouagadougou

Main Cities

Bobo-Dioulasso, Koudougou

Local Languages

French

Currency

West African CFA franc

Climate

High humidity and frequent downpours

General Visa Requirements:

Each international crew member is required to visit the nearest Burkina Faso Embassy in their country of origin for a visa. The embassy will provide specific travel requirements based on the traveler’s nationality.

Required Documents:

A valid international passport.
Standard passport-sized photos.
Health and travel insurance.
International Yellow Fever vaccination card.
Hotel booking confirmation (minimum of 3 nights).
Invitation letter from a local contact.
Return flight ticket.

Visa Application Process:

For more details and to apply for a visa, visit Burkina Faso’s Official Visa Website.

Processing Time:

The visa processing time is typically between 10 and 20 days.

Cost:

The cost of a Burkina Faso visa, including online processing fees, is approximately $350.

Accreditation Requirements:

Accreditation is required for government projects and large-scale productions. For smaller, privately organized projects, accreditation may not be necessary.

Required Documents:

Valid international passport.
Approved visa.
Project synopsis.

Processing Time:

Accreditation processing takes about 5 to 10 working days.

Cost:

The accreditation fee is $500 per person. However, for privately organized projects, this fee may be waived.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits are issued by the Ministry of Communications, Arts, and Culture.

Required Documents:

Crew list.
Gear list with equipment specifications.
Detailed project synopsis.

Processing Time:

'Allow atleast 2 weeks - longer if ministries are slow or if multiple approvals are needed

Cost:

Film permits cost around $1,000, though this may vary depending on the project’s synopsis, duration, and shooting locations.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Hoodlums local co-ordinator will negotiate directly with private property owners to arrange film shoots on private locations, agreeing on fees that vary based on the property's significance and shoot duration,

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Drone Regulations:

Drone regulations are still developing in Burkina Faso. While permits are available for professional operators, filming near security buildings or sensitive locations is strictly prohibited. It is recommended to hire local drone operators to avoid security concerns and facilitate smoother approvals.

Drone Importation Regulations:

International crews must obtasin ANAC operating permit; clearancance from the Ministries of Defense & Security (mandatory for foreign operators); proof of airworthiness (drone specs documentation; manufacturer compliance) and pilot qualifications

Permit Issuance:

The Agence Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ANAC) du Burkina Faso is the organization responsible for issuing drone permits and regulating drone operations.

Timing:

Submit at least 3 months in advance.

Cost:

It is advisable to hire the services of our on ground local drone and operator, this saves your production time, and money.

Carnet Status:

No, Burkina Faso is not a Carnet country.

A detailed list of equipment, including serial numbers, must be submitted before arrival in Burkina Faso. International crews must declare all filming equipment at customs. On arrival at Ouagadougou or Bobo-Dioulasso airports, the gear list is presented to customs officials, the clearance is processed as a temporary import. A local customs clearing agent works directly with customs officers to handle paperwork, declarations, and payments. Our fixer coordinates between the production team and the clearing agent/customs office.

Required Documents:

Customs authorities require a full gear list with estimated values, which is used to calculate a refundable bond deposit before equipment is allowed into the country.

Issuing Organization:

Customs authorities in Burkina Faso handle the clearance process.

Timing:

Same day or within 24 hours if documents are in order and declared in advance. Customs offices operate on business days/hours, so weekend or holiday arrivals can cause delays.

Cost:

Costs are calculated based on the declared value of the equipment. Customs may require a bond or deposit to ensure equipment is re-exported. Without a clearing agent, the process is often slow and may lead to delays or higher fees.

General Overview:

Burkina Faso, especially outside the capital city Ouagadougou, has a heightened risk of crime, including armed robbery. Even within the capital, security concerns exist in some areas, particularly on the city’s outskirts. While security personnel are not required for film crews, it is recommended to ensure safety.

Security Requirements:

For higher-risk areas, armed security personnel, such as soldiers, are recommended to ensure the safety of the crew and equipment during filming.

Use vetted drivers and secure vehicles (4x4s with drivers familiar with local routes). Stay in secure accommodations. Always carry filming permits and press accreditation — to avoid issues at checkpoints. Have contingency plans for location changes if security deteriorates. Film crews should partner with a strong local fixer, avoid unnecessary exposure, keep movements planned. Security is not just about safety — it is tied directly to permit compliance and the perception of the crew’s legitimacy.