Mauritius

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Mauritius, 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 Mauritius

Capital

Port Louis

Main Cities

Vacoas, Beau Bassin-Rose Hill, Cure Pipe

Local Languages

Mauritian Creole, French and English

Currency

Mauritian Rupee

Climate

Warm Humid

General Visa Requirements:

Mauritius is not part of the Schengen Area. Many nationalities, including the UK, EU, United States, Canada, and Australia, may enter visa-free for short stays, typically 60–90 days depending on nationality. Length of stay is confirmed by Immigration on arrival. Visitor status does not permit paid work. Filming and paid production activities require appropriate work permits and filming authorisation.

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity recommended)
Completed visa application (if required by nationality)
Proof of accommodation
Proof of onward or return travel
Production invitation or support letter
Work permit or Occupation Permit application (for paid activity)
Police clearance certificate (for longer stays)
Proof of fee payment

Visa Application Process:

Visa-free nationals granted entry on arrival
Standard visa applications submitted prior to travel where required
Work authorisations and Occupation Permits arranged through a Mauritius-registered production company
Applications coordinated with the Economic Development Board and relevant authorities

Official references:
https://passport.govmu.org/
https://dha.govmu.org/

Processing Time:

Visa-free entry granted on arrival for eligible nationals. Standard visa processing, where required, typically 5–15 working days. Occupation permits and work authorisations typically 2–4 weeks, depending on documentation.

Cost:

Visa fees vary by nationality where applicable. Work permit fees vary depending on duration and role.

Accreditation Requirements:

Foreign cast and crew require work authorisation to undertake paid filming activities. Productions operate through a Mauritius-registered production company, with applications submitted to the Economic Development Board and relevant authorities. Foreign professionals typically require an Occupation Permit or short-term work authorisation. Requirements depend on role, duration, and remuneration.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Work permit or Occupation Permit application
Production letter outlining:
- Project overview
- Shooting schedule and locations
- Crew roles
Proof of accommodation
Police clearance certificate (if required)
Equipment list
Insurance documentation

Processing Time:

Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on permit category and documentation.

Cost:

Varies depending on role, duration, and permit type.

Issuing Organization:

Mauritius Film Development Corporation (MFDC), working alongside the Economic Development Board (EDB).

Required Documents:

Production title and synopsis
Full script (may be requested)
Producer and director details
Shooting schedule and locations
Cast and crew list including passport details for foreign nationals
Equipment list
Insurance documentation
Local production partner details

Processing Time:

Standard permits are generally processed efficiently. Filming in public areas, beaches, heritage sites, or environmentally protected zones requires additional coordination. Allow a minimum of 2–4 weeks.

Cost:

Fees vary depending on location, duration, level of public authority involvement, and environmental considerations.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Permissions, fees, and timelines are negotiated directly with private property owners, including resorts and estates. Resort filming often requires separate commercial agreements.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Varies depending on property type, exclusivity, and production impact.

Drone Regulations:

Drone operations regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Mauritius
Prior authorisation mandatory for commercial drone filming
Restrictions apply near airports, government buildings, urban areas, beaches, and public gatherings

Drone Importation Regulations:

Drones must be declared on arrival
Prior approval required before operation

Permit Issuance:

Civil Aviation Authority of Mauritius (CAAM)

Timing:

Minimum 10–20 working days.
Longer processing may apply depending on airspace and location sensitivity.

Cost:

Assessed case-by-case depending on duration, airspace, and operational scope.

Carnet Status:

Mauritius accepts ATA Carnets for temporary import of professional filming equipment.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet issued in the country of origin
Equipment lists aligned with carnet documentation
Supporting production documentation if requested

Issuing Organization:

Mauritius Customs Department, coordinated through a local production partner or broker where required.

Timing:

Clearance handled at entry points. Timing depends on shipment size and inspection requirements.

Cost:

ATA Carnet issuance fees apply in the country of origin. Local customs handling or brokerage fees may apply.

General Overview:

Mauritius is generally considered stable, safe, and production-friendly. Infrastructure is well developed compared to many regional markets.

Security Requirements:

Standard precautions recommended
Additional coordination may be required for large public shoots or marine operations
Health and medical facilities are readily accessible in major areas

Rebates/Incentives:

Mauritius operates a competitive national cash rebate programme designed to attract international productions.

Administered By
Economic Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the Mauritius Film Development Corporation.

Key Features

Cash rebate of up to 40 percent of eligible Mauritian spend, subject to tiered structure and approval
Minimum spend requirements are project-dependent
Annual budget availability applies
Eligible formats include feature films, television series, documentaries, animation, commercials, and international co-productions

Eligible Expenditure

Local crew and services
International cast and crew expenses, provided they are paid through Mauritius and qualify as eligible local expenditure
Equipment rentals
Accommodation and transport paid from a Mauritius bank account
Production services and facilities
Post-production carried out in Mauritius
Only eligible expenditure incurred and paid in Mauritius qualifies.

Application Process