CHAD

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in CHAD, 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 CHAD

Capital

Goz Beida

Main Cities

Goz Beida, Abeche, Moundou, Sarh, Am Timan, Koumra, Bardai, Kelo, Doba

Local Languages

French and Arabic

Currency

Central African CFA franc

Climate

Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

International film crews can apply for visa application by phoning the Chad embassy directly, alternatively visa application can be made on the spot at the airport, there is a visa service at the airport. Hoodlum provides assistance at the airport with visas as well as getting filming equipment through customs.

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, with at least 2 blank pages).
Completed visa application form (online for e-Visa or paper for embassy/consulate applications).
Recent passport-sized photographs (usually 2, with a white background).
Travel itinerary (flight booking or travel schedule).
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter from a host).
Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement or sponsor letter; around USD 50/day recommended).
Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for entry).
Entry Authorization letter (if applying for visa on arrival).
Visa fee payment receipt (amount varies by visa type).

Visa Application Process:

Visit this link to get a visa to Chad: here.

Processing Time:

See below

Cost:

Single Entry (up to 30 days): $300, 7 business days and Single Entry (up to 30 days): $390, next business day

Accreditation Requirements:

Visa: Obtain a valid Visa
Invitation Letter: From the Chadian Ministry of Communication or hosting organization
Film Permit: From the Chadian Ministry of Communication (for filming activities)

Required Documents:

Crew List
Equipment List
ID and Passport Copies
Proof of Professional Accreditation
Insurance Certificate

Processing Time:

2-5 Business days

Cost:

$85-$170

Issuing Organization:

Ministry of Communication (Ministère de la Communication)

Required Documents:

Film Script / Synopsis
Crew List
Equipment List
Location Schedule
Letter of Intent

Processing Time:

2-5 Business days

Cost:

$85-$340

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Filming on private property in Chad — whether in a hotel, cultural site, village compound, or privately-owned landscape, requires a slightly different approach than public filming. Unlike government-controlled spaces, private locations often involve direct negotiation with the property owner or custodian. Permissions are usually easier to secure than state permits, but they still need to be handled formally and respectfully.

When shooting on private land, you’ll typically need:

A location release agreement signed by the property owner.
Proof of crew insurance and liability coverage.
A clear explanation of the scope of filming (dates, times, crew size, equipment).
Respect for local traditions, communities, and any site-specific restrictions.

Because Chad is culturally diverse, with many locations tied to community leaders or tribal authorities, securing access often requires building trust and providing assurances about how filming will be conducted.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location fees: $1,000–$3,000 per day

Drone Regulations:

Obtain prior authorization from the Chadian Civil Aviation Authority (CCAA) and the Ministry of Defense before operating a drone. Register your drone with the CCAA.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Obtain permits for commercial drone use from the local aviation authority. Ensure compliance with customs regulations for importing drone equipment; it’s advised to contact customs prior to arrival. Register drones with the Chadian Civil Aviation Authority.

Permit Issuance:

Permits are issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Chad (ADAC)

Timing:

Permit processing takes 2-4 Weeks.

Cost:

$80-$160

Carnet Status:

Yes, Chad is a Carnet country.

General Process for a Garnet Country:

Obtain a Carnet.
Prepare Carnet documents.
Present Carnet at export country customs.
Use Carnet for temporary import at entry point in Chad.
Re-export goods after filming.
Return Carnet to the issuing organization.

Required Documents:

Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD).
Commercial invoice.
Packing list.
Proof of ownership.
Customs declaration form.

Issuing Organization:

Chadian Customs Administration (Direction Générale des Douanes)

Timing:

Average processing time: 2–5 working days (approximately 48–120 hours).

Cost:

5–20% of equipment value (depending on assessment).

General Overview:

Filming in Chad presents high safety risks due to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery. Crews must adopt robust security and health measures at all times.