France

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in France, 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 France

Capital

Paris

Main Cities

Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse, Nice, Nantes, Strasbourg, Bordeaux

Local Languages

French (official); regional languages include Breton, Occitan, Alsatian, Basque, Corsican, Catalan, Flemish

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Climate

Temperate with regional variations

General Visa Requirements:

International filmmakers may need to apply for a visa to work in France. The visa type depends on the nature and duration of stay.

Required Documents:

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of employment
  • Travel insurance
  • Details of the film project
  • Additional requirements depending on stay length (less or more than 90 days)

Visa Application Process:

Processing Time:

Recommended to apply 1–2 months before travel

Cost:

Varies depending on duration of stay and visa type

Accreditation Requirements:

International crew members must obtain a FIVA (Film Industry Visa Assistance) letter to support their visa application. This letter verifies the project and confirms crew involvement.

Required Documents:

  • Details of the trip
  • Applicant information
  • Valid passport copy
  • Linkage to the project (contract or letter of intent)

Processing Time:

Recommended to apply 1–2 months in advance

Cost:

Typically aligned with visa requirements; varies by project

Issuing Organization:

  • City Hall (streets)
  • National Parks authorities (parks)
  • Monuments Nationaux (historic buildings)
  • Other relevant local authorities depending on the location

Required Documents:

  • Synopsis of the project
  • Production dates
  • Crew details
  • Equipment list
  • Proof of insurance

Processing Time:

15–30 days

Cost:

Varies depending on scope, location, and project type

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

  • Negotiations directly with property owners or managers
  • Define terms of use, duration, and requirements

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Varies depending on location prestige, use, and services required

Drone Regulations:

  • Commercial drone operations are legal in France under specific regulations
  • Operators must register with the AlphaTango system and obtain authorizations

Drone Importation Regulations:

Commercial drones are legal, but operators must comply with French aviation laws

Permit Issuance:

  • Préfecture de Police

  • Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGAC)

Timing:

5–15 days

Cost:

Varies depending on project scope and drone operator

Carnet Status:

France accepts the ATA Carnet for temporary import of goods duty- and tax-free

Required Documents:

  • ATA Carnet
  • Detailed equipment list
  • Relevant visas

Issuing Organization:

ATA Carnet issued by Chamber of Commerce in home country

Timing:

Begin process 2–3 weeks before departure

Cost:

Varies depending on equipment value and issuing authority fees

General Overview:

France is generally safe for filmmakers. Standard precautions and awareness of local conditions are advised.

Security Requirements:

Security measures may be needed depending on project scale or filming in urban/high-traffic areas

Rebates/Incentives:

This country does not currently offer film rebates or tax incentives.

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Contact our Local Team

Hoodlum Film Fixers

Meet Our Local Team

Name:
Benjamin
Country:
France
Email:
europe@hoodlum.tv
Address:
4 rue des oiseaux - 37000 Tours, 37000 oiseaux, France

Client Brief

Fill in our client brief and we’ll get back to you with everything you need to start filming in this region.

Services We Provide in France

Accommodation

Airport Protocol & On-Ground Support

Casting & Talent

Catering

Crew Sourcing

Customs Clearance

Drone & Aerial Permits

Drone & Drone Operator

Equipment Rentals

Film Permits

Line Producers & Production Management

Local Film Fixers

Locations / RECCE’s

Logistics

Rebates & Incentives

Research

Risk Management

Security

Set Dressing / Production Design

Transport & Vehicles

Visas & Work Permits

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