Filming in Morocco: A Complete Guide to Incentives, Permits & Production Support

Morocco Rebate Overview

Morocco has long been a sought-after destination for filmmakers, offering a unique blend of stunning landscapes, iconic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. To further entice international productions, the country provides a highly competitive film incentive program, offering up to a 30% cash rebate on eligible production expenditures. With Atlas Film Fixers as your trusted partner, navigating this program becomes seamless, ensuring you maximize benefits while adhering to all necessary regulations.

Why Choose Morocco for Your Production?

This North African nation is an exceptional location for productions of all scales and genres. Whether you’re shooting a historical drama, an epic adventure, or a modern commercial, the country delivers unmatched visual diversity. Filmmakers can capture everything from sprawling deserts and ancient cities to scenic mountains and vibrant marketplaces. Coupled with a generous incentive program, it’s easy to see why productions consistently choose this destination.

Understanding the Film Rebate Program

The Moroccan incentive program is designed to attract global filmmakers while ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship with local industries. Here’s an overview of its core features:

Production Rebate Scale

• Eligible productions can receive a 30% rebate on qualifying local expenses.
• These expenses must be part of the Total Moroccan Expenditure (TME), encompassing all goods, services, and labor sourced locally.

Minimum Spend Requirement

• To qualify for the rebate, productions need to spend a minimum of MAD 1 million (approximately USD 1000,000). This applies to feature films, TV series, commercials, and documentaries.

Eligible Costs

• Covered expenses include crew salaries, equipment rentals, location fees, and post-production services, provided they are paid to local vendors.

Regulatory Compliance

• All productions must adhere to Moroccan standards and secure approval from the Moroccan Cinematographic Center (CCM).

Application Process

Applying for the rebate is a straightforward process, but one that requires attention to detail. Productions must prepare a comprehensive application, including a detailed budget and proof of planned expenditures. Atlas Film Fixers will assist at every step, from gathering the required documents to submitting them to the CCM.

Once the application is submitted, the approval process typically takes a few weeks. It’s essential to ensure all paperwork is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

Rebate Disbursement

Morocco’s rebate is disbursed after the project is completed and audited accounts are submitted. While the timeline for receiving the funds can range from 6 to 12 months, Atlas Film Fixers works closely with production teams to ensure all requirements are met for a smooth pay-out.

Essential Requirements

To qualify for the incentive, productions must meet several criteria:

• Local Spend: The minimum expenditure of minimum of MAD 1 million (approximately USD 1000,000) must be met within the country.
• Approval: Projects must receive the green light from the CCM before commencing production.
• Payments: All eligible expenses should be paid to local vendors or service providers, ensuring direct economic benefits for the community.

Advantages Beyond the Rebate

While Morocco’s 30% rebate is a major draw, the country offers additional advantages for filmmakers:

• Cultural Authenticity: Its rich heritage provides an authentic backdrop for a variety of stories.
• Versatility: Filmmakers can find deserts, ancient ruins, bustling cities, and serene coastal areas, all within a short distance.
• Skilled Local Workforce: A growing pool of experienced crew members and service providers is available to support productions.

Why Partner with Atlas Film Fixers?

Atlas Film Fixers is your comprehensive partner for navigating the film incentive program. Our team specializes in ensuring that your production meets all requirements while minimizing delays and complications. Here’s what we offer:

• Pre-Production Expertise: Assistance with scouting locations, hiring local talent, and managing logistics.
• Regulatory Navigation: Support with CCM approvals and compliance with national standards.
• Budget Optimization: Guidance on maximizing eligible expenses to make the most of the rebate.
• Post-Production Assistance: Help with documentation, audited accounts, and final submissions.

Country Overview

Main Cities: Morocco offers a diverse range of filming locations across its vibrant cities, each with unique cinematic appeal:

• Fes: Renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and ancient medina, Fes serves as an authentic backdrop for period films.
• Marrakesh: Known for its bustling souks, stunning palaces, and lush gardens, Marrakesh provides a rich, colorful setting for various genres.
• Rabat: As the political and administrative capital, Rabat combines modern infrastructure with historic sites.
• Casablanca: The largest city and economic hub, Casablanca offers a mix of contemporary skyscrapers and traditional neighborhoods, making it suitable for both modern and period productions.
• Tangier: Positioned on the northern coast, Tangier boasts Mediterranean beaches and a multicultural ambiance.
• Meknes, Essaouira, Tetouan, and Agadir: Each of these cities presents distinct architectural styles and landscapes, from coastal settings to mountainous regions, catering to a variety of filming needs.

Local Languages:

The official languages of Morocco are Arabic and Standard Moroccan Berber. French is widely spoken, particularly in business and government, facilitating international film coordination.

Local Currency:

The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the official currency. Productions can efficiently convert currencies, and major banking services are readily available in most cities, ensuring smooth financial transactions.

Climate:

Morocco features a diverse climate influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Sahara Desert.

• Winter (November to January): The coldest and wettest season, with snowfall in the Atlas Mountains and rain in the northern regions.
• Summer (June to August): Inland temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F), particularly in desert areas, while coastal regions remain more temperate. These variations allow productions to capture both snowy landscapes and desert vistas.

Visa Requirements:

• General Requirement: Some nationalities require visas for entry into Morocco. It is advisable to check with the Moroccan embassy or consulate in advance.
• Required Documents: A valid passport, recent passport-sized photos, flight itinerary, and any additional documents requested by the Moroccan consulate.
• Processing Time: Varies by nationality, ranging from a few days to several weeks.
• Cost: Fees depend on nationality and visa type. For precise costs, refer to the Moroccan embassy or visa services.

International Crew Accreditation (FIVA LETTER):

Unlike many filming destinations, Morocco does not require international crew accreditation, simplifying entry for foreign film crews.

General Film Permit:

Issuing Organization:

Film permits in Morocco are managed by:

• The Ministry of Culture, Department of Communication (for fashion & photoshoots).
• The Moroccan Cinematography Center (CCM) (for commercials, documentaries, feature films, etc.).
• https://www.ccm.ma/en/autorisations-tournage.php

Timings:

• Documentaries: Approximately 15 working days.
• Commercials, music videos, corporate films, short & feature films: Around 5 working days.

Required Documents:

• Documentaries: Title, synopsis, TV broadcasting letter, shoot schedule, broadcast date, crew list, crew passport copies, and equipment list.
• Commercials & Feature Films: Additional requirements are outlined on the CCM website.

Cost:

• Fashion & photoshoots, documentaries: Free.
• Other projects: Fees apply as per CCM regulations.

Private Locations:

Atlas Film Fixers arranges location scouting and agreements for private venues based on production needs. Costs vary depending on the site and project scope.

Drone Permit:

Importation Regulations:

Importing foreign drones into Morocco requires a complex approval process, typically taking two months. A film permit must be obtained before importation.

Permit Issuance:

Local authorities issue drone permits, varying by region.

Application Requirements:

Differ by location; local drones are available upon request.

Timings:

• Local drone permits: Around 10 days.
• Foreign drone importation: Approximately two months.

Cost:

Drone permit fees depend on location, shoot duration, and drone type. The cost is typically included in overall shooting fees.

Equipment Customs Clearance:

Carnet Country Status:

Morocco accepts the ATA Carnet system for temporary professional equipment imports.

Customs Clearance Process:

Productions should obtain an ATA Carnet in their country of origin to streamline customs procedures.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet and specific import permits for select equipment, such as walkie-talkies.

Timings:

Varies based on equipment and documentation.

Important Note:

Some specialized equipment may require additional permits.

Safety and Security:

General Overview:

Morocco is a secure and film-friendly destination, known for its welcoming approach to international productions.

Security Requirements:

While generally safe, Atlas Film Fixers can arrange security services upon request, particularly for high-profile projects or remote filming locations.

For tailored assistance with permits, location scouting, logistics, and incentive applications, contact Atlas Film Fixers to streamline your production in Morocco.

Conclusion

For expert guidance and seamless logistics, contact Atlas Film Fixers to ensure your production benefits from the unique offerings of this spectacular location while adhering to local regulations and maximizing efficiency. Visit our LinkedIn page to connect with us and read articles specifically curated for each country we have local offices in!