Filming in Reunion Island: A Complete Guide to Incentives, Permits & Production Support
Film Rebate Overview
Réunion Island is a treasure trove for filmmakers seeking a visually stunning, culturally rich, and financially rewarding filming destination. Nestled in the Indian Ocean, this French territory offers diverse landscapes, excellent infrastructure, and attractive tax incentives. At Atlas Film Fixers, we specialize in helping production companies unlock the full potential of filming in Réunion, ensuring your project runs smoothly from pre-production to post-production.
Why Choose Réunion Island for Your Production?
- Spectacular Natural Backdrops
Réunion Island boasts a wide range of cinematic landscapes, from the active volcano Piton de la Fournaise to dramatic cliffs, serene lagoons, and lush rainforests. Its unique terrain allows filmmakers to capture multiple settings without leaving the island. - Cultural and Architectural Diversity
The island’s rich Creole heritage and diverse cultural influences are reflected in its vibrant towns, colorful festivals, and unique architectural styles, adding authenticity to any production. - World-Class Infrastructure
Réunion’s modern facilities, skilled local crews, and direct connections to France make it an accessible and professional filming destination. - Convenient Accessibility
With international flights connecting Réunion to Europe, Africa, and Asia, along with simplified visa processes for EU citizens, Réunion is a logistically convenient location.
Generous Tax Incentives on Réunion Island
One of the key advantages of filming in Réunion is the financial benefits offered through France’s Tax Rebate for International Production (TRIP) program.
Highlights of the TRIP Rebate:
- Rebate Rate: 30% on qualified local expenditures.
- Eligibility: Available for feature films, TV series, documentaries, and animations that pass the French Cultural Test.
- Minimum Spend: Productions must spend at least 300k€ of eligible expenditures and 5 days of shooting.
- Qualifying Expenses: Includes crew wages, equipment rentals, set construction, accommodations, and other local production costs.
In addition to the TRIP rebate, Réunion Island productions can also benefit from VAT exemptions, further reducing overall costs. The TRIP provides a 30% tax rebate on eligible expenses, capped at $35 million per project. The process is digital, fast, and reliable, allowing line producers to start spending within three weeks after eligibility confirmation.
The Brand New ‘VFX 10% Bonus’
In addition to the TRIP, France offers a 40% tax rebate on all eligible expenses for projects involving substantial digital visual effects. To qualify for the VFX 10% bonus, projects must be live-action fiction films, include significant digital visual effects, have $2.4 million in eligible VFX expenses, and pass a cultural test.
Country Overview
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
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)
Timing:
Up to 30 days.
Cost:
€60 – €180.
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.
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. Contact Atlas film Fixers to film in this region.
