Bora Bora

Introduction

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Bora Bora, providing international productions with seamless support, including location scouting, permit assistance, and connections to local talent and crew. Known for its turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, and dramatic volcanic peaks, Bora Bora offers a breathtaking backdrop for feature films, documentaries, and commercials. Whether capturing the serene beaches, lush tropical landscapes, or vibrant Polynesian culture, Hoodlum ensures a smooth and efficient production experience in this iconic island paradise.

Let Hoodlum handle the logistics of filming in Bora Bora—from navigating permits to securing stunning locations—so you can focus on your creative vision. Contact Hoodlum today to bring your production to life in Bora Bora.

Country Overview

Bora Bora has been featured in films like “Couples Retreat,” showcasing its luxury resorts and stunning scenery, with the film being shot primarily at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. 

• “Couples Retreat” (2009):This film, known for its comedic storyline, prominently features Bora Bora’s luxury resorts, overwater bungalows, and beautiful ocean views, primarily at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. 
• Bora Bora’s Natural Beauty:The island’s lagoon, with its intact underwater world, is a major draw, offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours. 
• Other attractions: Bora Bora boasts white sand beaches, lush vegetation, and soaring mountains, making for a scenic backdrop. 

Main Cities:

The largest city is Vaitape, which serves as the island’s administrative and commercial hub.

Bordering Countries:

Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. It doesn’t share borders with other countries but is closest to islands like Tahiti, Moorea, and Huahine.

Local Languages:

The primary languages are Tahitian and French, with English spoken in tourist areas.

Local Currency:

The Pacific Franc (XPF), also known as Franc Pacifique, is the local currency.

Weather / Seasons:

The best time for filming is the dry season from May to October, offering sunny, calm weather perfect for outdoor shoots. Filming is less ideal from November to April due to the wet season, which brings heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas, making outdoor filming difficult.

Visa Requirements

General Requirement:

• Film crews typically need a short-stay visa, which can be obtained upon arrival. However, it’s recommended to apply in advance through the French Embassy or Consulate.
• Required documents include a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and a letter explaining the purpose of the film project.

More info on visa requirements for Tahiti.

Required Information/Documentation:

1. Valid passport.
2. Proof of onward travel.
3. A letter explaining the purpose of the film project.
4. Detailed shooting schedule.
5. Equipment list.
6. A permit from the French Polynesian Government’s Film Commission.

Timings:

Processing time for a visa is usually 2-4 weeks. It’s advised to apply at least 6-8 weeks in advance to ensure timely approval.

Cost:

The visa typically costs between 8,000 and 12,000 Pacific Francs (approximately $80-$120 USD) per person.

Visa Application Link:

Visa application for France.

International Crew Accreditation

General Accreditation Requirements:

• Film crew members need accreditation from the French Polynesian Government’s Film Commission.
• The application includes submitting a completed form, providing proof of identity, and paying an accreditation fee (ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 Pacific Francs or $50-$100 USD).

Required Information/Documentation:

• Completed application form.
• Valid passport.
• Proof of identity.
• A letter from the production company confirming the crew member’s role.
• Certificate of liability insurance (submitted to the French Polynesian Government’s Film Commission).

Timings:

Processing time for crew accreditation is usually 3-5 working days. It’s recommended to apply at least 2-3 weeks in advance for timely approval.

Cost:

Crew accreditation typically costs between 5,000 and 10,000 Pacific Francs (approximately $50-$100 USD) per person.

General Film Permit:

Issuing Organization:

The film permit is issued by the French Polynesian Government’s Film Commission, known as the Comité du Film de Polynésie Française.

Timings:

Processing time is 4-6 weeks. It is recommended to apply at least 3-4 months in advance for timely approval.

Required Documentation:

• Completed application form.
• Detailed shooting script.
• Shooting schedule.
• Location list.
• Crew list.
• Equipment list.
• Proof of liability insurance.
• Letter of intent from the production company.

Cost:

Film permit costs range from 200,000 to 500,000 Pacific Francs (approximately $2,000-$5,000 USD), depending on production type, location, and duration.

Private Locations:

General Process:

Hoodlum Film Fixers Bora Bora is typically required to facilitate:

• Location scouting.
• Obtaining permits.
• Arranging logistics.
• Coordinating with local authorities and property owners.

Cost:

Pricing depends on specific location requirements, shoot dates, and equipment needs. Costs can only be determined after finalizing the film production schedule.

Drone Permit:

Drone Regulations:

• Operators must obtain prior authorization from the French Polynesian Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC).
• Restricted Areas: Resorts, villages, and environmentally sensitive zones.
• Compliance: Must adhere to altitude and distance limitations.

Drone Importation Regulations:

• A temporary import permit (ATA Carnet) is required before arrival.
• Drones must be declared to French Polynesian customs.
• Certain types of drones may require additional permits and approvals.

Issuing Organization:

Drone permits are issued by the French Polynesian Civil Aviation Authority (Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile – DGAC).

Required Documentation for Local Drone Permit:

1. Completed application form.
2. Copy of drone registration certificate.
3. Proof of liability insurance.
4. Detailed flight plan.
5. Valid pilot’s license or certification.

Required Documentation for Drone Importation:

1. Commercial invoice.
2. Bill of lading.
3. Certificate of origin.
4. Customs declaration form.
5. ATA Carnet.
6. Detailed list of drone equipment and accessories.

Timings:

Processing time for a drone permit is 7-10 working days. It is recommended to apply at least 2-3 weeks in advance.

Cost:

5,000 to 20,000 Pacific Francs (approximately $50-$200 USD), depending on type of permit, flight duration and location.

Equipment Customs Clearance

Is Bora Bora a Carnet Country?

Yes. French Polynesia, including Bora Bora, is an ATA Carnet country.

General Process for a Carnet Country:

• Obtain an ATA Carnet before arrival.
• Present the Carnet to customs upon entry.
• Temporarily import equipment duty-free and tax-free for a specific period (typically up to one year).
• The Carnet must be properly stamped when entering and exiting the country.

Required Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance:

• Commercial invoice (detailed list of equipment, values, and purpose).
• Packing list (weight, dimensions, and description of each item).
• ATA Carnet (official document for temporary importation).
• Crew list (names and roles of crew members handling equipment).
• Equipment list (serial numbers, descriptions, and values).
• Temporary Importation Form (must be submitted to French Polynesian customs).

Issuing Organization for Customs Clearance:

French Polynesian Customs Authority (Direction des Douanes or Douanes de Polynésie Française).

Timings for Customs Clearance:

Typically, 2-4 hours, depending on:

• Complexity of shipment.
• Accuracy of documentation.
• Workload of customs officials.

Cost of Customs Clearance:

5,000 to 20,000 Pacific Francs (approximately $50-$200 USD). 5-10% duty on the value of equipment (some items may qualify for exemptions or temporary importation bonds).

Film Rebates and Tax Incentives

• French Polynesia offers a film rebate program called the “Tax Rebate for Film and Audiovisual Productions.”
• Productions can receive up to 30% rebate on total eligible production costs incurred in French Polynesia.

Safety & Security

General Overview:

• Bora Bora is a small South Pacific island with a population of around 10,000 people.
• Known for its crystal-clear waters, overwater bungalows, and luxury tourism.
• Strong focus on environmental preservation and local culture.

Security for Film Productions:

• Local security personnel or a reputable security company is recommended.
• 24/7 protection for equipment, crew, and locations.
• A comprehensive risk management plan should address potential risks, including theft, equipment damage and natural disasters (e.g., tropical storms).