Haiti

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Haiti, 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 Haiti

Capital

Port-au-Prince

Main Cities

Cap-Haïtien, Gonaïves, Les Cayes, Jacmel

Local Languages

Haitian Creole, French (both official)

Currency

Haitian Gourde (HTG)

Climate

Tropical

General Visa Requirements:

Haiti is not part of the Schengen Area. Many nationalities, including UK, EU, US, and Canada passport holders, may enter visa-free for short stays, typically for up to 90 days. Length of stay is determined by Immigration on arrival. Visitor status does not permit paid work. Filming or paid production activity generally requires authorisation and local approval, even for short shoots.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Proof of onward or return travel
Proof of accommodation
Production invitation or contract
Work authorisation request, where applicable
Proof of fee payment
Travel medical insurance, strongly recommended

Visa Application Process:

Check Haiti’s immigration requirements for your nationality. For filming activities, engage a local fixer or production service early to help coordinate permits and liaise with local authorities.

Processing Time:

Visitor entry is granted on arrival for visa-free nationals. Work authorisation and filming approval timelines vary, so several weeks should be allowed with the expectation of local administrative coordination.

Cost:

Visa-free entry applies for many nationalities. Fees for permits and authorisations vary depending on scope and duration.

Accreditation Requirements:

Foreign cast and crew generally require authorisation to undertake paid filming activities. International productions typically work through a local Haitian production partner, fixer, or NGO, with approvals handled case by case by the relevant authorities. Requirements depend on role, duration, and location. Advance coordination is essential.

Required Documents:

Production company letter outlining the purpose, duration, and scope of the project.
Full crew list including names, roles, nationalities, and passport information.
Equipment list for major gear imports and insurance documentation for crew and equipment.

Processing Time:

Timelines for crew accreditation are not formally published, so additional lead time is recommended—especially when importing large equipment or working in remote locations.

Cost:

Crew-permit fee details are not clearly available in public sources.

Issuing Organization:

There is no centralised national film commission in Haiti. Filming approvals are coordinated through relevant government ministries, local authorities, and municipalities, and are often facilitated by a local production partner or fixer.

Required Documents:

Production title and synopsis
Producer and director details
Proposed filming dates and locations
Cast and crew list
Equipment list
Insurance details
Local partner or fixer details

Processing Time:

Timelines vary significantly depending on the location and level of authority involvement. Government buildings, public spaces, and sensitive locations require additional lead time.

Cost:

Fees are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Permissions, fees, and timelines for private locations are negotiated directly with private owners.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Fees vary depending on the property, duration, and production requirements.

Drone Regulations:

Drone use is highly restricted in Haiti. Professional drone filming requires explicit government authorisation. Drone operations may be prohibited or suspended in certain areas due to security considerations.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drones must be declared on arrival. Confiscation is possible if prior approval has not been secured.

Permit Issuance:

The Haitian Civil Aviation Authority is the main authority, and ministry-level approval may also be required.

Timing:

Approvals are handled case by case. Extended lead time should be allowed.

Cost:

Fees and permissions depend on the security assessment and the filming location.

Carnet Status:

Haiti does not reliably operate ATA Carnet procedures.

Required Documents:

Detailed equipment lists
Customs declarations
Local customs broker, often required
Deposits or duties, where requested

Issuing Organization:

Customs clearance is handled through Haitian customs authorities, usually with the support of a local customs broker or production partner.

Timing:

Clearance timelines can be unpredictable. Advance coordination is strongly recommended.

Cost:

Costs vary, and local customs handling and facilitation fees may apply.

General Overview:

Haiti currently presents significant security and operational challenges. Conditions can change rapidly and vary widely by area.

Security Requirements:

Conduct detailed risk assessments
Work with experienced local fixers
Follow government travel advisories
Limit crew size and operational footprint where possible

Rebates/Incentives:

Haiti does not offer a formal film cash rebate or incentive programme. No standard tax relief or rebate framework exists for international productions.