With its Roman ruins, desert landscapes, bustling medinas, and Mediterranean coastline, Tunisia offers a visually rich canvas for filmmakers. From Star Wars sets in the Sahara to historical streets in Tunis, the country attracts a wide range of productions. However, to shoot legally and efficiently, you’ll need expert help. Fixers in Tunisia manage complex permits, drone clearances, and customs requirements—ensuring your production stays on schedule and fully compliant. With African Fixer, you get local insight, reliable logistics, and peace of mind.
Visa Requirements for Film Crews
Most film crews can enter Tunisia with ease, but you must understand when additional paperwork or registrations are required.
Visa Overview:
- Visa-Free Entry: Many EU, North American, and African nationals can enter visa-free for up to 90 days
- Tourist Visa: Required for countries not on the visa-exempt list
- Work Authorization: May be necessary for large or extended productions
Process:
- Crew members typically enter on tourist visas
- Productions must register their presence with local authorities through a local partner or fixer
Documents Needed:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Hotel booking or accommodation address
- Return or onward ticket
- Invitation or support letter from Tunisian fixer or production partner
Health Guidelines:
- No mandatory vaccines
- Recommended: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus
Fixers in Tunisia ensure that the correct entry pathway is chosen for each crew member and handle formal registrations upon arrival if required.
Film Permits in Tunisia
To film in Tunisia, all commercial productions must obtain prior authorization from the government. African Fixer oversees this process and communicates with the correct authorities to keep everything moving.
Primary Authority:
- Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs – Cinema Department
- Additional approvals may be needed from local municipalities, police, or military (depending on locations)
Required Documents:
- Synopsis or treatment of the project
- Location list and shooting dates
- Passport copies of crew members
- Equipment list with values and serial numbers
- Proof of collaboration with a local fixer or production company
- Storyboard or sample scenes for sensitive locations
Timeline:
Standard processing time is 10–20 working days, with additional time needed for sensitive sites like government buildings, religious spaces, or archaeological ruins.
Costs:
Permit fees vary depending on the project type and scope—generally between $300 and $1,500+. Some municipalities may charge location fees separately.
By partnering with experienced fixers in Tunisia, you avoid delays and gain fast-tracked access to restricted or high-profile filming locations.
Drone Filming Regulations in Tunisia
Drone use in Tunisia is tightly controlled, and all drone activity must be approved in advance.
Approving Bodies:
- Tunisian Civil Aviation Authority (OACA)
- Ministry of Defense
- Ministry of Interior
- Local authorities and landowners (for location-specific flights)
Requirements:
- Drone registration and serial number
- Certified pilot credentials
- Purpose of usage and detailed flight plan
- Insurance documents
- Coordination with local fixer or production partner
Timeline:
Approvals typically take 4–6 weeks and should be applied for well in advance.
Best Practice:
Use a licensed local drone operator to ensure compliance and avoid delays at customs or on location.
Fixers in Tunisia handle drone clearances and liaise with defense and aviation authorities, reducing your exposure to regulatory risk.
Equipment Customs Clearance
Tunisia is not a Carnet country, which means all production equipment must be temporarily imported under local procedures.
Customs Process:
- Apply for a Temporary Import Permit
- Declare all equipment upon arrival at port of entry
- Present support letters and documentation coordinated through a local fixer
Required Documentation:
- Equipment inventory with brand, model, serial number, and value
- Import request letter from a Tunisian production partner
- Copy of film permit
- Re-export commitment statement
Authority:
Tunisian Customs Authority (Douane Tunisienne)
Timeline:
Allow 5–7 business days for customs processing. Work with a local broker to expedite approvals.
Costs:
Refundable security deposits or temporary duty fees may apply depending on the value of the equipment.
African Fixer ensures this process is handled correctly so that your gear clears customs quickly—without fines, seizure, or delays.
Safety and Set Logistics
Tunisia is generally safe and welcoming to film crews, especially in urban areas and tourist regions. However, proper planning is essential for desert or remote shoots.
Urban Areas:
Tunis, Sousse, and Hammamet offer strong infrastructure and production resources.
Remote Locations:
Desert areas like Tataouine and Douz are ideal for dramatic visuals but may lack services.
Recommendations:
- Hire local drivers familiar with terrain and regional customs
- Work with local authorities to secure police escorts or crowd control when needed
- Secure accommodation and vehicle support early, especially during high season
- Ensure insurance coverage and access to emergency medical care
Fixers in Tunisia manage the logistics, permissions, and on-ground coordination necessary for both urban and off-the-grid shoots.
Why Work with African Fixer
Filming in Tunisia offers rich visual potential—but local knowledge is crucial for navigating permits, cultural sensitivities, and logistics. Fixers in Tunisia from African Fixer provide all the tools and support needed for a professional, compliant, and efficient shoot.
We take care of:
- Visa and immigration support
- Film permit coordination
- Drone authorizations
- Customs clearance for all gear
- Transport, security, and location access
- Local crew, talent sourcing, and translation
Whether you’re shooting a commercial, feature film, fashion editorial, or historical documentary, we make sure your production is smooth and legal from day one.
Ready to film in Tunisia? Contact African Fixer to work with experienced, connected fixers in Tunisia who guide your project from planning to wrap—with confidence and care.