Algeria, a North African treasure, is an emerging hub for filmmakers seeking diverse landscapes and vibrant cultural settings. With the help of our Algerian film fixer, your film production in Algeria will be an experience to remember!
Algeria offers an array of locations, from the Mediterranean coast to the Sahara Desert, each with a unique appeal. Moreover, the country’s cinematic potential is on the rise, thanks to its diverse settings and vibrant culture.
Algeria boasts a variety of stunning locations, ranging from bustling urban centers to remote desert landscapes. If you’re looking for historic architecture, dramatic natural backdrops, or vibrant cultural settings, Algeria has it all. Furthermore, the country offers a wealth of visually striking options for filmmakers. Not only does it provide diverse scenery, but it also offers a unique cultural atmosphere that enhances any production.
Explore the capital's historic Casbah, modern cityscapes, and scenic coastal areas.
Capture the mesmerising beauty of vast dunes and ancient desert towns like Ghardaia.
Known for its well-preserved historical sites, the city offers a glimpse into Algeria's rich past.
These rugged peaks provide striking backdrops for epic productions.
Discover a city perched on dramatic cliffs with a unique blend of history and modernity.
It is highly recommended to apply for visas before beginning the film permit application process. Since visa applications can take longer than a month, it’s essential to apply early in order to avoid travel delays. Therefore, careful planning ensures a smooth process.
For further guidance, please check the following website for detailed information on required documents and application procedures: Visa HQ Algeria.
Visa processing usually takes about four weeks.
Although not mandatory, it’s recommended to have a vaccination certificate or PCR test for travel to Algeria.
Accreditation is mandatory for all international crew members working on a production in Algeria.
Passport for each crew member, Synopsis of the project, Location and duration of production, List of equipment to be used
The accreditation process takes approximately four weeks.
The cost of accreditation matches the visa fees.
Obtaining a film permit is essential for any production. Generally, this involves securing temporary press accreditation from the Algerian Consulate. In some cases, additional approval from the Ministry of Culture is necessary. While general permits are usually free of charge, filming in heritage sites or restricted locations may require additional fees and permissions. For this reason, planning ahead is crucial, as the permit process takes between four and eight weeks.
The Algerian Consulate issues temporary press accreditation, which serves as a general film permit. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture may be involved in the process.
Please allow four to eight weeks for the permit to be processed and issued.
Synopsis or treatment of the project, Crew members’ names and job descriptions
There is typically no cost associated with obtaining a general film permit. However, if your project involves filming at a registered heritage site or other special locations, additional fees may apply.
Drones are strictly forbidden, with limited exceptions. Under certain conditions, drone services may be permitted in specific locations, but this requires a detailed full shot list. Even if the proper documentation is submitted, drone services cannot be guaranteed.
Importing drones is strictly forbidden.
The Algerian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issues drone permits.
Full shoot schedule, Detailed shoot list, African Fixer to advise
Permit issuance timelines vary and are available upon request.
The cost of the permit depends on various factors and is available upon request.
Algeria is a carnet country, requiring a Carnet ATA for the temporary importation of equipment.
To simplify customs clearance, hiring a transit agent familiar with Algerian customs procedures is recommended. The agent assists with the Carnet ATA process and ensures compliance with local regulations.
Carnet ATA
Algerian customs handles the necessary clearance.
The customs clearance process typically takes four to eight weeks.
Transit agent fees, A recoverable guarantee amount paid to customs, which will be refunded before the return flight.
Algeria is widely considered a safe country, with low crime rates in urban areas. As a result, security measures are usually not necessary in cities or urban locations. However, having a local fixer on set is mandatory in order to ensure compliance with local regulations and facilitate smooth operations. Additionally, the state provides a local escort at no cost to productions, which can be beneficial for added security and support. This allows productions to focus on filming, while local teams handle logistics.
For filming in remote or high-risk areas, such as mountainous or desert regions, general security measures are highly recommended. To ensure the safety of cast and crew, productions may need to hire experienced security personnel or take additional precautions to mitigate risks.
