Do I need a permit to film in Rwanda?

Yes. Filming authorization is required and typically coordinated through the Rwanda Film Office and relevant government authorities.

Are special permits required for national parks?

Yes. Filming in protected areas requires approval from conservation authorities and adherence to environmental regulations.

Drone operations require aviation authority approval and may be restricted in national parks or near government sites.

Are incentives available?

Rwanda offers investment facilitation support and emerging creative industry incentives depending on project scope.

Is Rwanda suitable for wildlife filming?

Yes, but wildlife and gorilla habitat filming requires strict compliance with conservation protocols and controlled access.

Can international crews operate locally?

International productions typically partner with locally registered entities to ensure regulatory compliance.

Rwanda

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Rwanda, 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 Rwanda

Capital

Kigali

Main Cities

Gisenyi / Butare / Huye / Muhanga / Nyanza / Ruhengeri / Gitarama / Kibuye

Local Languages

Kinyarwanda / English / French / Swahili

Currency

Rwandan Franc

Climate

Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

All international film and television crew entering Rwanda for professional filming purposes must apply for a Business Visa. Tourist visas are not appropriate for professional filming or media-related work. Rwanda offers Visa on Arrival for many nationalities, and Business Visas may also be applied for online prior to travel. Each crew member must apply individually. A Letter of Invitation from the local production partner is required. Entry permission does not replace filming or work authorisation.

Required Documents:

Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Passport-style photograph
Letter of Invitation
Accommodation confirmation
Travel itinerary or flight details

Visa Application Process:

Visa on Arrival (nationality dependent), or
Online application prior to travel via Rwanda Immigration portal
Visa must reflect business or professional purpose

Official reference:
https://www.migration.gov.rw

Processing Time:

Visa on Arrival: issued at entry (nationality dependent) Online application: 3–5 working days

Cost:

USD 50 (single-entry Business Visa – nationality dependent)

Accreditation Requirements:

All foreign film crew conducting professional filming activities in Rwanda must obtain a Temporary Work Permit (Category H – Short-Term Assignment). This is issued by the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration and is required in addition to the Business Visa. The work permit must align with the approved filming permit.

Required Documents:

Approved Film Permit
Passport copy
Passport-style photograph
CV, Resume, Portfolio, or IMDb link
Letter confirming role on the production
Estimated arrival and departure dates

Processing Time:

7–14 working days, subject to approval.

Cost:

Approximately USD 100–150 per crew member Final fee confirmed at time of application.

Issuing Organization:

Rwanda Film Office
(under the Rwanda Development Board – RDB)

Required Documents:

Project synopsis or treatment
Full script (if applicable)
Shooting schedule and dates
List of filming locations
Full cast and crew list with nationalities
Production company details
Equipment list (if applicable)

Processing Time:

5–10 working days.

Cost:

Project-dependent. Indicative range: USD 200–500.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Locations may be privately or institutionally owned. The local production partner sources and scouts locations, negotiates access and fees, and secures written permissions. Additional approvals may be required for government buildings, hotels, or sensitive public-interest sites.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Varies depending on:

Location type
Duration of shoot
Usage and disruption level
All fees confirmed once locations are approved.

Drone Regulations:

Drone use is highly regulated
Governed by the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA)
Flying without approval is strictly prohibited

Drone Importation Regulations:

Importation requires advance approval
Unauthorized drones may be confiscated on arrival
Strongly recommended to use locally licensed drone operators

Permit Issuance:

Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA)

Timing:

Minimum 2–4 weeks.

Cost:

Fees vary depending on drone type, location, and duration of use.
Costs confirmed upon application.

Carnet Status:

Rwanda is not a Carnet country. Temporary importation is permitted with proper documentation.

Required Documents:

Approved Film Permit
Detailed equipment list with serial numbers and values
Passport copies of equipment carriers

Issuing Organization:

Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) – Customs.

Timing:

Same-day clearance possible with pre-approved paperwork.

Cost:

Customs bond or deposit may be required. Clearing agent fees vary by volume and value of equipment.

General Overview:

Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa. Kigali and major filming areas are highly secure. Filming is generally well supported by authorities.