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.