Reunion Island

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Reunion Island, 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 Reunion Island

Capital

Saint-Denis

Main Cities

Saint-Pierre, Saint-André, Saint-Benoît, Le Tampon

Local Languages

Réunion Creole, French

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Climate

Hot & Humid

General Visa Requirements:

Réunion Island is a French overseas department, and French entry rules apply. EU and EEA nationals may enter visa-free. Many other nationalities may enter for short stays of up to 90 days without a visa, while others will require a Schengen visa.

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Return or onward ticket
Proof of accommodation
Proof of sufficient funds

Visa Application Process:

You can start you Visa Application here.

Processing Time:

Schengen visa processing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.

Cost:

The standard Schengen visa fee is approximately EUR 80.

Accreditation Requirements:

Commercial productions generally require filming permits. EU productions may benefit from a more streamlined administrative process.

Required Documents:

Production company profile
Script or synopsis
Crew details
Equipment list

Processing Time:

Processing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.

Cost:

Costs vary depending on the project.

Issuing Organization:

General filming permissions are coordinated through the Région Réunion Film Office, with local municipalities also involved depending on the location.

Required Documents:

Script or treatment
Production schedule
Crew list
Equipment list

Processing Time:

Permit processing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.

Cost:

Fees vary depending on the project. Many public locations may be low-cost or free, subject to permit approval.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private locations are typically sourced through a local fixer or the film office, with agreements negotiated directly with private owners. Depending on the area, additional permits may also be required.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Private location costs are negotiated on a case-by-case basis.

Drone Regulations:

Drone use is regulated under French civil aviation law, and productions must comply with French and EU drone requirements.

Drone Importation Regulations:

As Réunion operates under French and EU frameworks, productions should ensure all drone equipment, registration, and compliance documentation meet applicable French and EU requirements before arrival.

Permit Issuance:

The relevant authority is the Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile (DGAC).

Timing:

Processing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks.

Cost:

Costs vary, with registration and compliance costs applying depending on the operation.

Carnet Status:

France accepts ATA Carnet. Temporary importation is generally handled via carnet, and standard EU customs procedures apply.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet
Equipment list
Value declaration

Issuing Organization:

The relevant authority is French Customs.

Timing:

Customs clearance typically takes 1 to 2 working days.

Cost:

Costs are generally minimal when using ATA Carnet.

General Overview:

Réunion is considered a safe and stable filming destination with generally low crime levels. Productions should, however, plan carefully around weather, terrain, and environmental restrictions.

Security Requirements:

Weather planning is important during the cyclone season
Remote volcanic and mountainous terrain may require additional logistical planning
Protected areas and national parks are subject to strict environmental controls
General on-the-ground security requirements are usually low

Rebates/Incentives:

Réunion benefits from French production incentive structures, including the Tax Rebate for International Production (TRIP). Local regional incentives may also apply depending on the project.

Available Support

Support may be available through French national incentives and regional production support structures.

Who Can Apply

Eligibility depends on the applicable French and regional incentive criteria and should be confirmed with the relevant authorities.

How It Fits With Permits & Visas

As an EU territory operating under French legal, customs, and aviation frameworks, Réunion offers a relatively structured filming environment for international productions. Visa requirements, filming permissions, drone approvals, and customs processes should all be planned together, especially where productions involve protected areas, remote terrain, or specialist equipment.

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Client Brief

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Services We Provide in Reunion Island

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

Introduction

Réunion Island, a gem in the Indian Ocean, offers a stunning and diverse backdrop for international film productions. As a French overseas territory, it combines European infrastructure with exotic tropical landscapes, making it an ideal location for unique storytelling. From dramatic volcanic craters and lush rainforests to pristine beaches and vibrant Creole culture, Réunion provides an unmatched variety of settings for cinematic projects.

With enticing tax incentives, including the Tax Rebate for International Productions (TRIP), and streamlined logistics through its European-standard infrastructure, Réunion Island is a production-friendly destination. Its multilingual workforce, skilled local crews, and seamless customs processes ensure efficiency for international teams. For Hoodlum Films, this island presents an opportunity to capture visually arresting narratives while leveraging substantial financial benefits.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, romance, or drama, Réunion Island promises to bring your vision to life with its unparalleled beauty and production advantages.

Country Overview

Réunion Island, an overseas French department in the Indian Ocean, offers filmmakers an unparalleled blend of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and accessible film production support. From its lush volcanic interiors and pristine beaches to modern infrastructure and competitive film incentives, Réunion Island is a premier destination for international productions.

Main Cities:

Saint-Denis (Capital), Saint-Pierre, Saint-André, Saint-Benoît, Le Tampon.

Bordering Countries:

Madagascar (200 km west), Mauritius (200 km northeast), Seychelles (400 km north), Comoros (300 km northwest).

Languages:

Réunion Creole (Créole Réunionnais) and French (Official).

Currency:

Euro (EUR).

Weather and Seasons

Summer (December – March): Warm and humid, 24°C-33°C (75°F-86°F). Cyclone season; great for snorkeling, diving, and hiking.
Autumn (April – May): Mild, 22°C-28°C (72°F-82°F). Ideal for trekking; notable festivals occur during this period.
Winter (June – September): Cool, 20°C-26°C (68°F-79°F). Whale watching and outdoor activities peak.
Spring (October – November): Warm, 22°C-28°C (72°F-82°F). Lush landscapes and blooming flora dominate.

Visa Requirements for Film Crews

General Requirements

A Schengen Visa is required for stays up to 90 days.

Obtain a permit from the Réunion Island Film Commission.

Required Documentation

Film Permit, script, shooting schedule, and location agreements.
Passport valid for six months beyond stay, travel insurance, and crew list.
Invitation letter from local partners (if applicable)

Visa Application Link

Timelines and Costs

Timing:

Up to 30 days.

Cost:

€60 – €180.

Applying for Schengen Visa

International Crew Accreditation

General Accreditation Requirements

Required for compliance with French regulations.
Accreditation involves application submission, review, and delivery by Réunion Island Prefecture.

Required Documentation

Film permit, Temporary Work Permit, customs clearance for equipment, professional ID, and liability insurance.

Timelines and Costs

Timing:

4-6 weeks.

Cost:

€300 – €500.

General Film Permits

Issuing Authority:

Réunion Island Prefecture.

Timelines and Costs:

Timing:

4-8 weeks.

Cost:

€90 – €900.

Required Documents:

Application form, script, crew list, equipment list, location permits, and insurance.

Private Locations

General Process:

Scouting, contacting owners, site visits, and negotiations.

Costs:

€500-€5,000 per day, depending on the site and production type.

Drone Permits

Authorization Requirements:

Obtain permits from the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) and the Réunion Island Prefecture.

Compliance with EU drone certification, insurance, and no-fly zones.

Timelines and Costs:

Timing:

2-6 weeks.

Cost:

€130.

Equipment Customs Clearance

Is Réunion Island a Carnet Country? Yes.

Process for Carnet:

Present Carnet at customs upon arrival and departure.

Required Documentation:

Commercial Invoice, ATA Carnet, insurance, customs forms, and French Civil Aviation permits (if applicable).

Timelines and Costs:

Timing:

2-5 days.

Cost:

7% of equipment value.

Film Rebates and Tax Incentives

Tax Rebate for International Productions (TRIP):

Eligibility: Foreign productions, €250,000 minimum budget.

Rebate: 30% of eligible expenses, up to €30 million per project.

Réunion Island Rebate:

Eligibility: French productions, €200,000 minimum budget.

Rebate: 20% of eligible expenses, up to €4 million per project.

Safety and Security

Physical Safety:

Ensure secure locations, monitor weather, and manage crowds.

Equipment Safety:

Secure storage and insurance for high-value equipment.

By adhering to these guidelines, Réunion Island offers filmmakers a streamlined process for permits, rebates, and safe filming environments.