Introduction
Hoodlum provides top-tier film fixer services in Togo, offering essential support to international production teams. With deep local expertise and hands-on experience, we manage every aspect of production, including visa assistance, film permits, location scouting, crew assembly, equipment rental, customs clearance, transportation, accommodation, still photography, and post-production services.
From the vast Sahara dunes to bustling markets and culturally rich villages, Togo presents a striking backdrop for commercials, feature films, TV series, documentaries, reality shows, and still photography projects.
Planning a shoot in Togo? Hoodlum handles all logistics—securing permits, managing visas, arranging equipment hire, booking flights and accommodations, organizing local transport, and overseeing post-production—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact us today to ensure a smooth, successful, and visually stunning production in Togo.
Country Overview
Togo offers an array of unique filming locations, from the lively streets of Lomé to the lush, scenic landscapes of its countryside. The country’s terrain includes tropical forests, serene beaches, rolling hills, and traditional villages, providing a variety of settings for diverse productions.
The coastal areas with their beautiful beaches and vibrant fishing communities offer excellent opportunities for documentary and commercial shoots, while the picturesque Togo Mountains provide dramatic backdrops for adventure and nature-themed projects.
For urban-themed productions, Lomé’s bustling markets, colonial-era architecture, and modern cityscapes present a striking contrast, showcasing the dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. The rural villages, with their colorful homes and cultural heritage, offer an authentic glimpse into Togo’s way of life.
With its mix of landscapes, and natural beauty, Togo is an ideal destination for filmmakers and photographers seeking unique and diverse backdrops for their projects.
Bordering Countries:
Ghana/Benin/Burkina Faso
Main Cities:
Lome/Kara/Atakpame/Dapaong
Local Languages:
Akan/Ewe/Abron/Dagbani
Local Currency:
Franc
Best time to film:
The best time to film in Togo is during the two dry seasons: from August to early September and from November to April. These periods offer clear skies and minimal rainfall, ensuring more favourable conditions for filming. It is best to avoid the rainy seasons, from May to July and late September to October, as the rain can cause disruptions. With warm temperatures averaging 33°C year-round and a comfortable 26°C for swimming, Togo provides a great climate for outdoor shoots throughout most of the year.
Visa Requirements
General Requirements
To obtain a visa for Togo, an online visa application form must be completed. Visa applications should be submitted at least 5 working days prior to arrival. You can access the application through the following links: Visa Application Login and Visa Application Registration.
Required Information and Documentation
You will need to scan and upload the following documents: a copy of the first 3 pages of your passport, valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Togo, in color and clearly legible; a colour passport photo; a copy of your round-trip plane ticket; and optionally, a confirmation of hotel reservation or a certificate of accommodation from a town hall or prefecture in Togo. You may also need to provide medical and repatriation insurance (optional during application), your latest bank statement as proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your stay in Togo, and for business trips, a letter of invitation from the inviting person or organization, mission order, or verbal note. For professional or humanitarian stays, a copy of proof of your professional activity is required. Incomplete applications will not be processed, and the consulate will only accept complete applications. After submission, it’s essential to contact Action-Visas via mail, fax, or email to confirm receipt of your application. A vaccination certificate is also required.
Timings
Visa processing typically takes 5 working days.
Cost
The visa fee is $92.
International crew accreditation
General Accreditation Requirements
International crew accreditation is required and processed along with the film permit.
Required Information and Documentation for Application
The following documents are necessary for the accreditation application: an application for filming authorization, a summary of the filming project script, an estimated budget for the project, and supporting documents from the film companies involved in the production.
Timings
The accreditation process typically takes 10 to 15 days.
Cost
The accreditation fee is $750.
General Film Permit
Issuing Authority
Permits are issued by the National Cinematography Department of the Togolese Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Timings
The permit application process typically takes 10 to 15 days.
Required Information and Documentation for Application
To apply for a filming permit, the following documents are required: an application for filming authorization, a summary of the filming project script, an estimated budget for the project, and supporting documents from the film companies involved in the production.
Cost
The permit fee is $750.
Private Locations
General Process
Our local fixer will handle negotiations with the private owner to agree on the terms for using the location.
The fee will be determined through negotiation between the fixer and the private owner.
Drone Permit
Authorization Requests
Requests for authorization to use a drone must be submitted to the Ministry of National Défense and Army Reconstruction at least 3 weeks before filming begins.
Drone Importation Regulations
A declaration of the drone and other equipment must be made at the airport, accompanied by the filming authorization.
Issuing Authority
The National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) is responsible for issuing drone permits.
Required Information and Documentation for Local Drone Application
In collaboration with the fixer, the drone operator must submit an official request to ANAC. This request should specify the type of operation, the geographical area, and the desired duration of the drone authorization (UAS).
Timings
The approval process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Cost
The cost will vary depending on the drone’s flying area and duration.
Equipment Customs Clearance
Is Togo a Carnet Country?
Yes, Togo is a Carnet country.
General Process for Carnet Country
A carnet application and payment are required for bringing equipment into Togo.
Required Information and Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance
Upon arrival at the airport, travellers must declare the goods they are carrying in detail, pay any applicable duties and taxes, and comply with exchange control formalities.
Issuing Authority
Customs service at the airport is responsible for issuing the clearance.
Timings
Customs formalities at the airport may take up to 2 working days before departure.
Cost
Fees vary depending on the type of production.
Safety and Security
General In-Country Overview
Togo is a stable and pleasant country to work in, offering a conducive environment for various productions.
Type of Security Required
As a precaution, it is recommended to have a small private security team on hand.
