Sao Tome & Principe

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Sao Tome & Principe, 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 Sao Tome & Principe

Capital

Sao Tome

Main Cities

Not a region with multiple countries

Local Languages

Portuguese, Forro

Currency

Dobra (STN)

Climate

Tropical

General Visa Requirements:

São Tomé and Príncipe, has specific visa requirements for film crew members. While requirements may vary based on nationality, purpose, and duration of stay, the country offers an e-Visa (electronic visa) option for film crews and other travelers.

Required Documents:

Valid Passport: At least six months of validity.
Visa Application Form: Available online or through the São Tomé and Príncipe Embassy or Consulate.
Invitation Letter: From a local partner or production company, detailing the visit’s purpose, project, and duration.
Film Permit: Issued by the Ministry of Culture or relevant authorities.
Proof of Professionalism: Such as: Business card; Company registration documents; Proof of previous work experience
Equipment List: A detailed list of filming equipment.
Itinerary: A complete travel schedule during the stay.
Accommodation Confirmation: Hotel reservation or equivalent.
Health Insurance: Proof of coverage for the duration of the visit.
Payment Proof: Receipt for the visa application fee.

Visa Application Process:

Complete the online application form.
Upload the required documents.
Pay the e-Visa fee.
Receive e-Visa approval via email.

Start you visa application here.

Processing Time:

Can take around 3-5 working days

Cost:

Our travel agency processes Authorization of entry letter (cost is 28 euros per file), which enable you to board the plane to São Tomé. Then you will pay 20 euros in cash at the immigration for the visa. Note: EU schengen resident and visa holder, as well as USA and USA resident (with validity above 6 months) do not need a visa. Once at the immigration desk, the cost of tourism visa is 20 euros and the cost of business visa is 60 euros.

Accreditation Requirements:

The National Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual (INCA) oversees international film crew accreditation in São Tomé and Príncipe, a picturesque island nation off the coast of West Africa. Foreign filmmakers and production teams must apply to INCA with the required documentation, including a film synopsis, production schedule, and crew list. They may ask for Yellow fever certificate if you come from a country with yello fever.

Accreditation ensures compliance with local regulations, respects the country’s cultural heritage, and allows film crews to access locations, hire local talent, and receive INCA’s support. Additional requirements may include securing visas, permits, and licenses from relevant authorities.

Required Documents:

Only a presentation letter and a list of the crew + list of the equipment.

Processing Time:

Typically takes around 3-5 working days to process

Cost:

Crew accreditation in Sao Tome is usually issued on arrival or within 24 hours, but it's recommended to apply at least 72 hours in advance to avoid delays.

Issuing Organization:

The São Tomé and Principe Ministry of Culture issues film permits in São Tomé.

Required Documents:

Just a letter with a project description.

Processing Time:

Crew accreditation in Sao Tome is usually issued on arrival or within 24 hours, but it's recommended to apply at least 72 hours in advance to avoid delays.

Cost:

A budget of 1500 USD and Fixer will handle the whole process

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Identified spots show mostly public land. In case of private property, we will handle it with the landowners. A fixer in São Tomé and Principe is involved in arranging and securing private film locations by negotiating with local property owners.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

The cost of a private film location in São Tomé and Principe cannot be provided until the production schedule and specific location requirements are received.

Drone Regulations:

In São Tomé and Principe, drone regulations require operators to obtain prior permission from the Civil Aviation Authority, respect restricted airspace, and follow guidelines for safe and responsible drone operation. It depends where you film. Most drones have software limited geographic locations (near airport).

Drone Importation Regulations:

In São Tomé and Principe, drone importation regulations require a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority and customs clearance, with duties and taxes applicable on the value of the drone and its accessories.

Permit Issuance:

The Civil Aviation Authority of São Tomé and Principe (ANAC) issues drone permits in São Tomé.

Timing:

It typically takes 7-14 working days to obtain a drone permit in São Tomé and Principe, after submitting the required documents and meeting the necessary regulations. No drone permit required for non-military use of drone.

Cost:

The cost of a drone permit in São Tomé and Principe is approximately $200-$500, depending on the type of permit, drone weight, and intended use. But in most cases, there is no permit needed. Only special authorization for sensitive spots (Presidential palace…)

Carnet Status:

Yes, São Tomé and Principe are a Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) country.

Required Documents:

In a Carnet country like São Tomé and Principe, the process involves obtaining a Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) from a national issuing association, listing the goods to be imported, and presenting the Carnet to customs authorities upon arrival and departure.

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance in São Tomé and Principe is issued by the São Tomé and Principe Customs Authority (Autoridade Aduaneira de São Tomé e Príncipe). (General Directorate of Customs)

Timing:

Customs clearance in São Tomé and Principe typically takes 2-5 working days, depending on the complexity of the shipment and the accuracy of the documentation. If we obtain an exemption of import taxes, the equipment is release as soon as it arrives.

Cost:

This to be confirmed once packing list has been submitted.

General Overview:

São Tomé and Principe, a small island nation off the coast of Gabon in Central Africa, boasts a unique blend of Portuguese colonial history, lush tropical landscapes, and a relaxed island atmosphere. Can bring prophylactic malaria treatment and mosquito repelent

Security Requirements:

When filming in São Tomé, it is advised to exercise normal precautions and consider hiring local security or guides, especially when traveling to remote areas or handling valuable equipment. In general, it is a safe country.