Securing Film Permits in Morocco: Essential Guide for Film, TV, and Documentary Productions

Securing Film Permits in Morocco: Essential Guide for Film, TV, and Documentary Productions

Morocco, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, attracts filmmakers from around the globe. However, securing a film permit in Morocco involves navigating various local regulations, including the key requirement of partnering with a Moroccan production company. This article provides a comprehensive guide on obtaining a film permit, the legal necessities, and the vital role of working with a film fixer in Morocco.

Legal Requirements for Filming in Morocco

To legally film in Morocco, foreign production companies must collaborate with a Moroccan partner who holds an “autorisation d’exercice et agrément de production” from the Moroccan Cinema Center (CCM). Not every production company has this approval, so selecting a qualified partner is crucial. Working with a film fixer in Morocco ensures all legalities, financial transactions, and local guidelines are respected, paving the way for a seamless production process.

Why Hire a Film Fixer in Morocco?

The law mandates Moroccan partnerships for various types of productions, including:

• Feature and short films
• TV series
• Documentaries and docu-fiction
• Reality shows
• Music videos
• Institutional and corporate videos

By partnering with a film fixer in Morocco, productions can ensure compliance with local taxes, VAT, income tax, and other regulations. This collaboration is not a formality; rather, it’s a cornerstone of a successful production that ensures all processes are efficiently managed.

Role of a Moroccan Production Partner

Your Moroccan production partner is an essential link to the local industry, handling critical elements like permits, payments, and crew coordination. They also ensure the production adheres to local safety standards, VAT requirements, and income tax regulations. From financial management to local liaison services, a Morocco film fixer provides a legal and professional framework, allowing you to focus on creative aspects.

Steps to Obtain a Film Permit in Morocco

The process and requirements for obtaining a film permit depend on the production type. Here are the main categories:

1. Feature Films, Docu-Fiction, Medium-Length Films, and Short Films

   • Permit approval typically takes up to 15 days after application submission.
   • Key documents include:
     • A signed request for the permit addressed to the CCM.
     • The completed and signed filming permit application form.
     • Repatriation agreements between the foreign and Moroccan companies.
     • A translated, legalized script (Arabic or French) and synopsis.
     • An agreement detailing financial transfers made by the foreign company to a local bank account before the end of the month following the last filming day.
     • Detailed crew lists of Moroccan and foreign technicians, maintaining a quota of 25% Moroccan technicians.
     • Contracts for Moroccan crew members, submitted with the application.
     • A work schedule, call sheet for each filming day, and proof of permit fee payment.

2. Documentaries

   • Permit duration varies and should be applied for several months ahead of the filming schedule.
   • Essential documents include:
     • Signed permit request, addressed to the CCM and Ministry of Culture.
     • Completed permit application form.
     • Commitment to provide a financial transfer statement within one month of project completion.
     • A detailed documentary synopsis in Arabic or French.
     • A list of the foreign crew attending, including passport numbers and roles.

3. Institutional and Corporate Films

   • The application process for institutional or corporate films is similar, with a 15-day approval window.
   • Required documents include:
     • Signed permit request addressed to the CCM.
     • Application form, contract copies, and technical team details, adhering to the 25% Moroccan technician quota.
     • A local call sheet, work schedule, and proof of permit fee payment.

4. Music Videos

   • The process is comparable to feature films, but the permit application requires song lyrics translated into Arabic or French, along with artist details (website or social media links).

Additional Tips for Filming in Morocco

While adhering to these guidelines, you may need extra documentation, especially for non-scripted formats or unique production requirements. Engaging a Morocco film fixer two months before the shoot date is highly advisable for a streamlined process. This preparation helps avoid delays and ensures compliance with Moroccan regulations.

Our Approach to Filming in Morocco

For foreign production companies, collaborating with a Moroccan film fixer is not merely a legal requirement but an opportunity. Our philosophy is to guide you throughout your project, balancing cost-efficiency and local expertise. With a Morocco film fixer by your side, your project benefits from tailored solutions, blending local insights with international production standards.

Why Morocco for Your Next Production?

Whether you’re working on a feature film, TV series, or documentary, hiring a film fixer in Morocco allows you to harness the region’s diverse settings and professional resources. By understanding the legal requirements and enlisting the right Moroccan partner, you can focus on your production while ensuring a seamless, compliant, and successful shoot in Morocco.