Who provides film fixer services in Cape Verde?

Hoodlum Film Fixers provides full production coordination and fixer services in Cape Verde, helping international crews secure film permits, work visas, drone authorizations, and customs clearance through official local channels.

Do I need a visa to film in Cape Verde?

Visitors staying up to 30 days may enter Cape Verde visa-free, but anyone working or filming must obtain a Temporary Work Visa. This is handled through a registered local partner, who submits the project details and official invitation letter on behalf of the crew.

How do I get a film permit in Cape Verde?

All international productions must apply for a general film permit through the Ministry of Culture and Creative Industries. Hoodlum Film Fixers, as your local host, manages the paperwork, invitation letter, and coordination with national and municipal authorities to secure official filming permission.

Can I use drones for filming in Cape Verde?

Yes, drone filming is allowed with prior approval from the National Civil Aviation Agency (AAC). Permits are required for all commercial or production use. Hoodlum Film Fixers assists with flight plans, drone registration, insurance, and customs handling for drone equipment.

Is Cape Verde a Carnet country for film equipment?

No. Cape Verde is not part of the ATA Carnet system. All filming equipment must go through a temporary import process managed by your local production fixer, who coordinates customs clearance and ensures smooth handling at the airport.

Cape Verde

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Cape Verde, 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 Cape Verde

Capital

Praia

Main Cities

Mindelo, Assomada, Santa Maria

Local Languages

Portuguese (the official language)

Currency

Cape Verdean Escudo

Climate

Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

Many nationalities, including EU, UK, USA, Canada, Brazil, and others, can enter Cape Verde visa-free for short stays, usually up to 30 days, though some nationalities may be granted longer stays depending on nationality. All foreign air travelers must complete EASE pre-registration before arrival and pay the Airport Security Tax. Some nationalities must obtain a pre-arrival visa through the EASE system or a Cape Verde embassy before traveling.

Required Documents:

Passport valid for at least 6 months
EASE pre-registration confirmation
Payment of Airport Security Tax (TSA)
Return or onward ticket
Accommodation details, such as hotel or host address
Proof of sufficient funds for the stay
Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, only if arriving from a Yellow Fever risk country

Visa Application Process:

Travelling to Cabo Verde is straightforward for most visitors, as stays of up to 30 days don’t require a visa. If your country is eligible for visa-free entry, you’ll just need to complete the EASE online pre-registration before you travel. Once submitted, the registration is automatically linked to your passport and verified by immigration when you arrive. You can complete it here: https://www.easecv.com/en/.

For film crews or anyone working in Cabo Verde, a temporary work visa is required. This is arranged through a local production company, which handles the paperwork, including the invitation letter, project information, and submission to the relevant authorities.

Processing Time:

EASE registration is typically completed within 48 hours. Online visa processing, where required, generally takes approximately 2 to 15 business days. It is recommended to apply at least 2 to 3 weeks before travel.

Cost:

Airport Security Tax (TSA) is approximately €30 to €31, or CVE 3,400, per traveler. Visa fees, where required, are approximately €22 to €25.

Accreditation Requirements:

There is no separate accreditation system specifically for international film crews. International productions must comply with immigration rules and obtain filming permits from local authorities before filming.

Required Documents:

Not applicable beyond normal visa and entry documentation

Processing Time:

Not applicable.

Cost:

Not applicable.

Issuing Organization:

Filming permits are generally issued through the Ministry of Culture and Creative Industries and coordinated with relevant authorities via a local production partner or fixer.

Required Documents:

Cape Verde has three different municipalities, please let us know where you want to film in Cape Verde.

Official letter describing the production
Filming purpose and synopsis
Filming locations, islands, and schedule
Details of the local production partner or fixer
Copies of passports for all crew members
Detailed equipment list including serial numbers and values
Production schedule and crew list

Processing Time:

Film permit processing generally takes approximately 15 to 20 working days.

Cost:

Film permit fees are estimated at USD 300 to USD 700, depending on production scope, number of locations, and duration of the shoot.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private filming locations are arranged directly with property owners, usually negotiated by the local fixer or production partner.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Fees vary depending on the location, duration of filming, and production size.

Drone Regulations:

Drone filming in Cape Verde is regulated and enforcement has reportedly become stricter. Approval should be arranged before arrival, and productions should plan for drone permissions early in the permitting process.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Detailed equipment list
Serial numbers
Equipment values
Drone specifications
Operator licence, where applicable

Note:

Using a locally licensed drone operator is strongly recommended, as this can help streamline approvals and reduce the risk of customs delays or confiscation on arrival. All drone equipment should be declared and approved for import in advance.

Permit Issuance:

The Cape Verde Civil Aviation Authority, Agência de Aviação Civil (AAC), regulates drone operations. Special authorization is required in particular for flights above 120 metres and for operations near airports or other restricted areas.

Timing:

Applications should be submitted 15 to 30 days before filming.

Cost:

Typically estimated at USD 350 to 500, depending on whether the production is local or international.

Carnet Status:

Cape Verde is not an ATA Carnet country, so temporary import procedures are required.

Required Documents:

Letter explaining filming purpose
Filming locations and dates
Production company details
Local production partner information
Copies of crew passports
Detailed equipment list with serial numbers and values

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance is processed by Cape Verde Customs at the port of entry. A local production partner or fixer normally acts as guarantor and coordinates the paperwork with customs authorities.

Timing:

Customs clearance generally takes approximately 15 to 20 working days.

Cost:

Costs depend on equipment value and import arrangements. In many cases, equipment can be cleared without additional fees if arranged in advance by a local partner.

General Overview:

Cape Verde is generally considered safe and politically stable, with relatively low levels of violent crime. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, particularly in tourist areas.