DRC

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in DRC, 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 DRC

Capital

Kinshasa

Main Cities

Kinshasa, Kisangani, Lubumbashi, Goma, Bukavu, Kananga, Mbuji-Mayi, Tshikapa, Likasi

Local Languages

French

Currency

Congolese Franc (CDF)

Climate

2 Seasons - Dry Season & Rainy Season

General Visa Requirements:

Visitors to the DRC must obtain a visa in advance from a DRC embassy in their country of origin. A visa can also be issued upon arrival if applied for in advance.

Required Documents:

Completed visa application form
Passport valid for at least 6 months
2 passport-sized photos
Vaccination certificate
Appointment letter detailing the purpose of your visit
Original ID or passport
Travel documents
Visa application fees

Visa Application Process:

For more information and to apply for a DRC visa, visit the official link: DRC Visa Requirements and Application.

Processing Time:

The visa processing time is typically 1 week.

Cost:

$250 + $90 for 7 days & $450 for 8-30 days

Accreditation Requirements:

All foreign crew members require accreditation through the Ministry of Media to work in the DRC.

Required Documents:

Crew passports
Filming permits
Shooting locations
Filming dates and duration
Topic and title of the shoot
Equipment list with serial numbers
Passport copies and passport-sized photos

Processing Time:

Accreditation takes about 1 week.

Cost:

$1,100 per crew member.

Issuing Organization:

The General Film Permit is issued by the local Municipality.

Required Documents:

Letter from the local production company

Processing Time:

2-4 Days

Cost:

$250

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

The fixer will contact the owner of the private location to discuss and agree on the terms.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

The fixer will negotiate a fee with the private owner.

Drone Regulations:

Detail to be included on the Film permit letter.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Included with equipment clearance.

Permit Issuance:

No specific permit for drone but it must be specified on the general shoot permit letter.

Timing:

2-4 Days

Cost:

No additional cost for drone permits.

Carnet Status:

The DRC is not a Carnet country. A clearing agent must be hired to process a temporary importation permit for equipment.

Required Documents:

List of equipment with serial numbers and values
Value of equipment list

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance is handled by the DGDA National Customs.

Timing:

Customs clearance is completed on arrival.

Cost:

Up to $1,000, depending on the quantity and value of the equipment.

General Overview:

Most major cities in the DRC are safe for film production, but the eastern regions bordering Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi can be unstable, and security precautions are necessary.

Security Requirements:

A security guard is recommended to protect equipment on set.
Depending on the location, additional security such as local police escorts may be required for high-risk areas.