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.

Meet our Local Team

Haiti

Sebastian

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 Haiti

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

News from the Region

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Film Production Services in Haiti

Haiti is one of the most visually and culturally distinctive filming destinations in…

Introduction

Hoodlum provides expert film fixer services in Haiti, offering full production support for international film and television crews. With deep local knowledge and hands-on experience, we manage every aspect of your shoot—from securing film permits and visa assistance to location scouting, crew sourcing, equipment rental, customs clearance, transportation, accommodation, and post-production services.

Haiti’s vibrant landscapes—breathtaking mountains, beautiful beaches, colourful towns, and rich cultural heritage—offer an authentic and cinematic backdrop for commercials, feature films, TV series, documentaries, reality shows, and still photography projects.

Planning a shoot in Haiti? Hoodlum ensures a seamless production process, handling all logistics, including permits, visas, equipment rentals, transportation, and accommodations. Let us take care of the details while you focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact us today for expert production support in Haiti.

Country Overview

Filming in this region can be a unique and rewarding experience, offering a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and stories to capture. Located in the Caribbean, Haiti is the first independent black nation in the world, with a rich history and vibrant culture.

Why Film in Haiti?

Diverse Landscapes: From beautiful beaches to rugged mountains, Haiti’s diverse landscapes offer a wide range of filming locations.
Rich Culture: Haiti’s unique cultural heritage, including its music, art, and traditions, provides a fascinating backdrop for storytelling.
Resilient People: The Haitian people are known for their warmth, hospitality, and resilience, making them a pleasure to work with.

Preparation is Key

To ensure a successful filming experience in this region, it’s essential to:

Research and plan carefully
Work with local partners and fixers who are familiar with the country and its regulations
Be respectful of the local culture and people
Safety: As with any country, there are safety concerns to be aware of, particularly in certain areas of the capital city, Port-au-Prince.
Permits and Regulations: Filming in Haiti requires obtaining the necessary permits and following local regulations, which can be complex and time-consuming.

By being aware of the opportunities and challenges of filming in Haiti, you can create a unique and compelling story that showcases the beauty and resilience of this incredible country.

Visa Requirements

General Requirement:

Film crews traveling to Haiti typically require a Film Permit/Authorization (also known as “Authorization de Tournage”).

Required Documents:

Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Completed visa application form (if applicable)
One passport-sized photo & copy of valid passport
Proof of onward travel (flight itinerary or travel plans)
Travel insurance documents
Sitcom, Media, Personnal or Institutional accreditation
Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from/through affected areas)

Timings:

3-5 business days

Cost:

$150-$500

Visa Application Link: https://www.haiti.org/tourist-visa/

International Crew Accreditation

General Accreditation Requirements:

Valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity)
Relevant visas (Film Permit, Business Visa, or Tourist Visa)
Travel insurance
Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from/through affected areas)
Proof of professional affiliation (e.g., union membership, company ID)

Required Documents:

Crew list with passports, roles, and contact information
Media, Sitcom, Personnal or Institutional accreditation
Equipment list with serial numbers and values
Location permits and agreements
Script and storyboard
Production schedule

Timings:

10-20 business days (standard processing)

Cost:

$150-$300

General Film Permit

Issuing Organization:

Haitian Ministry of Communication and Culture (MCC) and Ministry of Interior (MICT)

Timings:

5-10 business days

Required Documents:

Completed film permit application form
Sitcom, Media, Personnal or Institutional accreditation
Script and storyboard
Location list and shooting schedule
Crew list with passports and roles
Equipment list with serial numbers and values
Proof of liability insurance
Proof of payment for permit fees

Cost:

$1,500-$3,000

Private Locations

General Process:

The fixer or local producer initiates the process by conducting location scouting based on the production’s requirements, followed by negotiations with property owners to secure permits and agreements.

Cost:

Will be negotiated by local fixer

Drone Permit

Drone Regulations:

Obtain aerial filming permit from Haitian Ministry of Communication and Culture
Submit detailed flight plan and coordinates
Designate a local drone operator or partner with a Haitian production company
Ensure drone operator has liability insurance

Drone Importation Regulations:

Obtain import permit from Haitian Customs Authority (ADH)
Declare drone and accessories at customs
Pay applicable duties and taxes

Issuing Organization: Haitian Civil Aviation Authority (OFNAC) and Ministry of Interior (MICT)

Required Documents:

Completed drone permit application form (OFNAC)
Drone specifications (make, model, weight, value)
Proof of liability insurance
Passport copy (for foreign applicants)
Business registration documents (for commercial applicants)

Timings:

6-23 business days

Cost:

$600-$1,200

Equipment Customs Clearance

Is Haiti a Carnet Country?: Yes

General Process for Carnet Country:

Obtain an ATA Carnet document from a national Chamber of Commerce or authorized issuer.
List and value equipment on the Carnet.
Pay a security deposit (typically 40-50% of equipment value).
Present Carnet to customs upon arrival in Carnet country.
Declare equipment and obtain customs stamp.
Use equipment for authorized purposes (e.g., filming, photography).
Re-export equipment within Carnet validity (typically 12 months).
Obtain customs stamp upon departure.
Return Carnet to issuer, confirming equipment re-export.

Required Documents:

Passport
Commercial invoice
Bill of lading
Certificate of origin
Packing list
Customs declaration form

Issuing Organization:

Haitian Customs Authority (ADH)

Timings:

3-7 business days

Cost:

$200-$1,000

Film Rebates and Tax Incentives

Haiti offers a film rebate program, including for reality TV productions, through the Haitian Film Commission (HFC) and the Ministry of Communication and Culture. Contact us today to film in this region.