DRC Film Permit
DRC film permits are notoriously difficult to acquire, unfortunately, and this is due to a lack of sophistication in the film sector. There is no formal procedure for managing DRC film permits, meaning applications are handled on a case-by-case basis. This results in crews often dealing with unsteady footing, and mismanagement when applying for visas and permits.
Having a “man on the ground” who can move things along and handle any issues at the government level certainly, which is what Film Fixers provides.
Film Fixers Africa not only handles the paperwork, but we also manage the process. We have contacts in the DRC who we have worked with before, and have built a sturdy relationship with.
A DRC visa and film permit can take some time to get hold of – again, there is no formal process. It takes time and a lot of chasing.
Media accreditation is an essential document when applying for your DRC film permits. The Ministry of Communication and Media is the entity responsible for approving and processing the media accreditation documents, though this is more important for foreign journalists.
The cost of these applications is difficult to provide due to the lack of infrastructure in the film industry in the DRC. The nature and scope of the production however, are always factors that influence the cost of application.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (CAADRC) is responsible for drone permits in the DRC. All commercial pilots are required to have both a valid drone license, as well as a CAADRC issued permit.
Any foreign pilots must have a “Recognition of Ownership” on all drone flights.
The DRC does not fall under the ATA Carnet system, which makes the process a little more complicated.
Equipment can be checked as normal luggage if they are small enough (smaller cameras, microphones etc)
The DRC does not have any facilities, infrastructure or equipment to handle production, and so all equipment must be sourced externally.