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

Introduction to filming in Seychelles

The Seychelles, with its crystal-clear waters and lush islands, offers filmmakers an idyllic setting. While there are no formal film rebates or incentives, the country’s natural beauty and exclusive feel attract high-profile productions.

Key Highlights of Filming in the Seychelles

• Cost-Effectiveness: Although services can be premium, competitive rates are available through negotiation.
• Unique Locations: Pristine beaches, dramatic granite boulders, and lush tropical forests.
• Luxury Appeal: Ideal for commercial shoots and films that require a luxury, tropical setting.

Advantages of Filming in the Seychelles

• Unmatched natural beauty perfect for romance, adventure, and travel-related content.
• High-standard local services and supportive authorities for permit acquisition.
• Opportunities to incorporate local Creole culture for an authentic touch.

Country Overview

Bordering Countries:

• Tanzania to the west
• Madagascar to the southwest
• Mauritius to the northeast
• Comoros to the west, in the Indian Ocean
• Oman to the north, in the Arabian Sea
• Yemen to the north, in the Arabian Sea

Main Cities:

• Beau Vallo: A popular destination in Victoria City
• Takamaka: A district on the south coast of Mahe, famous for its traditional Creole culture.
• Grand Anse Mahe: A district on the west coast of Mahe
• Port Glaud: A quaint city on the west coast of Mahe
• Cascade: A district on the northwest coast of Mahe
• Anse Royale: A district on the southeast coast of Mahe

Local Languages:

Seychellois Creole: spoken natively by about 95% of the population
English: the main language used in government and business
French: an official language and holds cultural importance

Local Currency:

Seychellois Rupee (SCR)

Climate:

Seychelles has a tropical rainforest climate. The warm and sunny climate is ideal for filming year-round, even during the rainy season (November-March)

Visa requirements

General requirements in country

To obtain a temporary work permit, applicants must submit their application through the immigration department.

Required documents

Government agency approval letter; application form; passport copy; dates of travel and application letter

Processing time

The visa application process typically takes up to 2 weeks.

Application fee

USD 145 per person

International Crew Accreditation

Work permits are issued with film permits

General Film Permit

Issuing authority

The Government agency is responsible for issuing film permits in Seychelles.

Processing time

The permit application process typically takes up to 2 weeks, including work permit approval

Application requirements/documentation

To obtain a filming permit in Seychelles, applicants must submit the following essential documents: crew details; CVs of key crew members; passports; travel dates and itinerary; project overview; local fixer’s letter requesting permission to film; local spend:

Additional requirements:

• Payment of the applicable permit fees
• Proof of liability insurance and equipment insurance
• Compliance with Seychelles’ regulations and laws
• More information

Drone Permit

Drone regulations

To operate a drone in Seychelles, you must register your drone with the local aviation authority

Drone importation regulations

• List it as equipment for temporary import
• Obtain approval from the government agency

Permit issuance

The Government Agency

Local Drone application requirements

To apply for a local drone permit, you need to provide:

• Picture of the drone
• Picture of the serial number
• Make, model, and weight of the drone

Drone importation application requirements

To apply for drone importation, you need to provide equipment customs clearance documents

Processing time

The permit application process typically takes up to 5 days.

Equipment Customs Clearance

Is Seychelles a Carnet Country

No, Seychelles is not a Carnet country.

Required documentation/ information

To clear your equipment through customs, you’ll need to provide:

• Full kit list with makes, models, serial numbers, values, and quantities
• Letter of application to customs
• All valid documentation from other government agencies approving the shoot

Clearance issuance

The Customs agency issues equipment customs clearance in Seychelles

Processing time

The clearance process typically takes up to 2 weeks

Clearance fee

USD 150 per submission

Safety and Security

Seychelles is considered a generally safe destination, with low crime rates. However, it’s always advisable to take precautions to ensure your safety. By traveling with a Hoodlum Mauritius fixer, you’ll ensure a smooth and safe filming experience in Seychelles. For smooth planning and production assistance in the Seychelles, contact Atlas Film Fixers to leverage local expertise and resources.