Filming in South Africa. How To Film Succesfully

Filming in South Africa: How to Film Successfully

Filming in South Africa offers lots of opportunities for a filmmakers and producers seeking the perfect filming location. It offers unique cinematic settings for a wide range of productions and is recognized as the oldest film industry in Africa. The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) was created to ensure the equitable growth of South Africa’s film and video industry, recognizing it as a significant contributor to the tourism economy. Film permits are issued by local councils in respective regions or areas where shoots take place. Below is a detailed step by step guide to help you navigate filming in South Africa.

Permit Processing Time

5 - 15 Days (Avg)

Ease of Filming

- Easy

Best Times to Film

April - May, September - October

South Africa's Filming Requirements: A Step by Step Guide

1. Apply For Filming Permit

A filming permit is required by all film crews to filming in public spaces in South Africa, including streets, parks, and government-owned buildings. Permits can be obtained from Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal and Cape Town Film Commissions and the process is easy and straightforward. Here are the requirements for filming in each province.

Filming in Gauteng Province

The Gauteng Film Commission (GFC) recommends that filmmakers apply for permission at least 14 working days before filming is due to start.

The GFC will also help identify suitable filming locations – generic or scenic. They have an online Directory that offers listings of location scouts, location managers, facilitation companies and location agencies who offer services securing private locations.

Applications are made directly on their website. You will be requested for the following information:

  • The project details
  • The applicant's details
  • The applying production company
  • Crew details

For specific queries on film permits and locations requirements contact Priscilla Kolwane, the Information Officer at priscillak@gautengfilm.org.za and they will help.

Filming in Western Cape (Cape Town)

In Cape Town, Film permits are required for all film-related activity including; commercials, feature films, documentaries, micro shoots, music videos, short films, stills photography, student projects, TV films and productions, and TV pilots or series.

You do not need a film permit when filming a wedding ceremony or private celebration or when filming current affairs or news for immediate release. To apply for a film permit, please follow the process explained below:

The City’s online application system has streamlined this process, making it easier and more efficient. Before applying for a film permit, please make sure that you have registered as a user on the online film permit system.

Step 1: Visit the online film permit system.

Step 2: Complete each step of the booking process, providing as much information and detail as possible and then submit it.

Step 3: The City will log, confirm and process the booking and engage with you and relevant role-players.

Step 4: Once the booking has been confirmed, the CTFPO will assist with the identification and coordination of all approvals. It will also set the conditions of the permit.

Step 5: The City will issue the permit once it has been approved and send it to the email address you provided on the online booking system.

Filming in KwaZulu Natal

You need a film permit if you're doing any film, video, or photo shoots for commercial purposes on public property like roads, sidewalks, parks, beaches, or public buildings. You don’t need a permit if you’re shooting on private or residential property, as long as it doesn’t affect public areas.

The KZN Tourism and Film Authority’s Locations and Facilities team can help you find locations, crew, and service providers. The City’s permit process covers filming on both public and private land, especially if it impacts public spaces or uses public facilities. You’ll need a permit for activities like:

  • Blocking traffic on city roads
  • Blocking pedestrians on sidewalks
  • Running cables or wires across sidewalks or road
  • Using equipment like generators, tripods, or dollies on sidewalks or roads
  • Affecting public parking, community spaces, beaches, or nature reserves managed by the city
  • Making noise or air pollution

To apply for a filming permit in KwaZulu Natal, here’s what you need to do:

All production companies applying for permission to film must register with the Durban Film Office Commission and will be required to submit the following documents:

  • Film Job Registration Form.
  • Location Application Form.
  • Application for traffic assistance (where applicable).
  • Applications for road closures or ANY obstruction to traffic or pedestrian, use of any special effects / stunts / weapons must be made through the DFO, who will, in granting such permissions, provide the production company or person acting on their behalf with written confirmation from the relevant authority.
  • Signed copy of the location code of conduct.
  • Copy of Liability Insurance.
  • Indemnity Form with R2 revenue stamp
  • Neighborhood Notification: Depending on the nature of the shoot, the Durban Film Office may request signed proof of notification of the proposed activity to shop owners / vendors / adjacent properties within a 100-meter radius of the intended location.

Submit your application at least 3 working days before small shoots (up to 15 people, 6 vehicles, no road closures) or medium shoots (16-30 people, 7-15 vehicles, partial road closures), or 7 working days before big shoots (over 30 people, 16+ vehicles, full road closures, or special effects).

The representative will confirm availability within 1 working day, and you must confirm the booking within 1 day, or it expires. If your shoot involves extra activities like blocking roads, include those in your application.

The City’s Film Permit Office don’t approve or reject permits on their own—they team up with other departments to decide based on the City’s goals, laws, and practical needs. Each application is judged individually.

For specific details about filming for your production within KZN please contact the location and facilities unit: Productionsupport@kznfilm.co.za.

2. Pay Import Duty (If Applies)

If you bring goods into South Africa and plan to take them back out, both Temporary Import and ATA Carnet let you avoid paying customs duty or VAT, but they work differently. With a Temporary Import, you leave a deposit with South African customs when you bring the goods in, and you get it back when the goods leave. With an ATA Carnet, you pay the deposit in your home country instead, and it acts like a global pass for your goods—customs officials accept it instantly without extra paperwork, making it faster than the Temporary Import process.

Some examples of goods you might bring in this way are audio-visual equipment (like cameras or microphones), photographic gear, musical instruments, or lighting equipment—just to name a few. For more details on the ATA Carnet system, visit the South African Revenue Service website.

3. Apply For Visas

If you are a foreign national, you will need to obtain a visa to enter South Africa. There are countries which are required to apply for visas but are exempt from visa fees, e.g. India, Colombia, Mexico, etc. Please refer to the list of countries that pay for visa and if your country is not listed it means you do not need to pay for visa. 

Note: If your visit would exceed ninety days or if you want to travel to South Africa to study or to work, you will need to apply for a temporary residence visa instead of a visitor's visa. Requirements for a temporary residence visa are not the same with visitor's visa.

Yellow fever certificate is required only if the applicant is passing through yellow fever belt area before entering South Africa.

Foreigners who wish to visit South Africa must have passports / travel documents valid for thirty (30) more days after the intended return date from South Africa. The passport must contain at least two (2) unused (blank) pages labeled Visa when presented at the Embassy or Consulate; One page is for affixing the visa or permit at the Embassy/Consulate and the other page is for endorsement of entry/departure stamp by the South African Immigration Services.

4. Find A Local Film Producer or Fixer

Finding a local fixer or registered production company can save you time. Registered fixers are experienced producers already familiar with the application and filming processes. They have established relationships that make navigating the film process easier and faster for you. VideoPro Africa offers pre-vetted, registered videographers, fixers, and producers who can assist with your filming needs. Check out the best options at the bottom of this guide.

5. South African National Parks Permits (SANParks) (If Needed)

As from 4 August 2009, SANParks has instituted the following procedure for applications for permits for filming and photography in National Parks:

  • All application forms can be downloaded from this website and should be emailed or faxed through to the address or number on the application form.
  • Please go through the tariff document before filling in the application form as once an invoice for the application has been filled out, no amendments can be made.
  • Once an application has been filled and sent to SANParks, the application will be evaluated to assess the impact of the activity.
  • Should the application be successful, an invoice will be issued and only after proof of payment has been sent to SANParks, will a permit be issued.

See the sidebar to visit SANParks's website or send an email to Khumbulani Tshabalala to get more information: khumbulani.tshabalala@sanparks.org

Film Permit Filming Fees

The cost of a filming permit in South Africa varies depending on the type of production and which municipality you are filming in. For detailed filming tariffs, kindly visit the downloads section for more information.

South Africa's Popular Locations

South Africa’s filming locations are defined by their variety and distinctiveness. The scenery spans mountains, tropical beaches, deserts, and jungles, with some areas resembling the Scottish countryside or the Alps. Cityscapes range from Victorian architecture to modern designs, alongside peasant-style villages and slums, offering a broad spectrum of urban and rural settings. A first-class film studio outside Cape Town includes water tanks, numerous sets, and stages, built to support complex productions. Technical crews speak English natively and bring expertise, while equipment is readily available for hire, and extras come from diverse racial backgrounds. City authorities cooperate easily, accommodation is abundant, affordable, and decent, and sunny weather is typical, creating consistent filming conditions.

Filming Succesfully in South Africa

What sets these locations apart is their unique visual appeal and proven track record. Cape Town’s craggy, oceanfront cityscape blends rugged cliffs with urban life, a combo that’s caught the eye of major films. Johannesburg, dubbed the City of Gold, pulses with a mix of cultures and energy, distinct from quieter rural spots. The Karoo and Golden Gate Highlands National Park stretch out as vast, arid expanses, delivering raw, dramatic backdrops unlike the lush or coastal alternatives. These places have starred on the big screen because they offer something specific—unusual textures, striking contrasts, and a sense of place that’s hard to replicate. Films shot here highlight how these spots can shift from gritty to grand, making them worth a look for anyone curious about cinematic landscapes.

Filming Succesfully in South Africa

Is Filming in South Africa Safe?

Filming in South Africa presents a dynamic environment where safety is achievable with proper planning, despite its notable challenges. The country’s established film industry, supported by diverse landscapes, skilled crews, and cost advantages, attracts significant production activity. This is evidenced by Cape Town issuing over 4,750 permits in 2023-2024.

However, filmmakers must be aware of the elevated crime rates. This includes violent incidents like armed robberies and kidnappings, particularly in urban centers or remote areas. Leveraging local fixers is critical to navigate these risks, ensuring secure locations and compliance with municipal regulations.

Legal frameworks, including the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), further require consent for filming individuals, adding a layer of operational safety. High-profile projects like Monster Hunter demonstrate that with local expertise and adherence to safety protocols, South Africa remains a viable and secure filming destination as of March 2025.

Filming Wildlife in South Africa

There is an enormous demand locally and internationally for wildlife and landscape photographs and footage for film, television, books, advertising etc. in South Africa. This demand has resulted in national parks under SANParks management being inundated with requests for commercial filming or photography permits.

National Parks are the pride of a country and SANParks has been tasked to manage certain of the country’s natural and cultural heritage. Conservation of these areas and their contents is their primary mandate. Showcasing this country’s natural heritage and beauty to the world is also a consideration, but never at the cost of conservation. See the filming in wildlife process in section 5 of this guide.

Filming with Drones in South Africa

Filming with drones in South Africa is legally permitted under the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) regulations, offering filmmakers a valuable tool, provided they adhere to strict guidelines.

  • Drones may not be flown 10 kilometers (6 miles) or closer to an airport without special permission from the SACAA.
  • Drones may only be operated for personal use when there is no commercial outcome, interest, or gain involved with the footage.
  • Using a drone for commercial operations requires a pilot to be registered and operate under Part 101 of the SACAA regulations.
  • Drones weighing more than 7 kilograms (15.4 pounds) may not be flown.
  • Drones may not be flown within 50 meters (164 feet) of people or private property (without permission from the property owner).
  • Drone pilots must maintain a visual line of contact with their drones at all times while in flight.
  • Drones may only be flown during daylight hours.

And according to the SANPark website, “The use of drones inside (and over) our national parks is strictly prohibited and needs prior approval.

More About Visas and Work Permits

Recent changes to South Africa’s Immigration Act 19 of 2004 and Act 13 of 2002, states that all foreigners require a working visa to work in South Africa.

Under section 11 (2) of the Immigration Act (Act 19 of 2004 read with Act 13 of 2002) the Director General can grant an exemption so that the client can enter on a visitor's visa as before.

In the case of clients from exempt countries, applications for exemption can be made by the South African facilitating company on behalf of the client.

Clients from non-exempt countries will, however, need to visit their local South African Embassy or Consulate. For more information, please consult The Department of Home Affairs Office.

Filming in Public Places

A filming permit is required by all film crews to film in any kind of public space in South Africa. Kindly refer to the Apply for filming permit section to see the detailed instructions for filming in public areas.

South Africa's Unique Weather

Summer (December to February)
South Africa’s summer brings heat, particularly to inland hubs like Johannesburg, Pretoria, and the arid Karoo. Coastal areas, such as Cape Town, enjoy milder weather thanks to refreshing ocean breezes. As peak tourist season, expect bustling hotspots, but it’s prime time for capturing beach scenes or dynamic outdoor action. The Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal shine as top filming locations during these sunny months.

Autumn (March to May)
Autumn delivers pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, creating ideal filming conditions. The Winelands, Garden Route, and parts of the Eastern Cape transform with stunning autumn foliage, offering picturesque backdrops. For productions needing temperate outdoor settings, this season strikes the perfect balance of comfort and scenic beauty.

Winter (June to August)
Winter cools things down, especially in Johannesburg and the towering Drakensberg Mountains. The Cape region sees rain, which might challenge outdoor shoots, but inland areas stay dry and sunlit. This season suits projects calling for snowy vistas or crisp, cool vibes, plus fewer crowds can simplify logistics for certain productions.

Spring (September to November)
Spring ushers in warmth, clear skies, and vibrant landscapes as greenery flourishes and flowers bloom. It’s a fantastic window for filming in vineyards, along the coast, or within national parks, where nature’s colors pop. The season’s energy lends itself to lively, visually rich shoots.

South Africa’s diverse climates and seasonal shifts make it a filmmaker’s playground. Whether you’re chasing sun-soaked beaches, rugged mountain drama, or the warm tones of autumn, timing your production right unlocks the country’s full potential.

South Africa's Filming Checklist

Common Languages

  • English
  • isiNdebele
  • isiXhosa
  • isiZulu

South Africa's Government Agencies

National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)

Government Film Body

Official Site

Film and Publication Board (FPB)

Film Regulatory Agency

Official Site

Gauteng Film Commission

Gauteng Permits Agency

Official Site

Cape Town Film Permit Office

Cape Town Permits Agency

Official Site

Tourism & Film KwaZulu Natal

Tourism and Film Agency

Official Site

Durban Film Office

Film Permits Agency

Official Site

Department Of Home Affairs

Government Immigration Agency

Official Site

South African Revenue Service (SARS)

Government Tax Agency

Official Site

South African National Parks

Wildlife Conservation Authority

Official Site

South African Civil Aviation Authority

Drone Licensing Agency

Official Site
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Filming in South Africa: How to Film Successfully

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Frequently Asked Questions

The most commonly asked questions about filming in Filming in South Africa: How to Film Successfully

What are the benefits of filming in South Africa?South Africa is a popular filming destination for a number of reasons, including its diverse landscapes, competitive costs, and experienced crew. The country offers a wide range of locations, from deserts and mountains to forests and beaches. South Africa is also home to a number of world-class film studios and production facilities.
What are the challenges of filming in South Africa?One of the biggest challenges of filming in South Africa is the distance between locations. The country is very large, and it can take a long time to travel from one location to another. Another challenge is the weather. South Africa has a diverse climate, and it is important to be prepared for all types of weather conditions.
What are some of the tax benefits of filming in South Africa?South Africa offers a number of tax benefits for productions that film in the country. The most important tax benefit is the Foreign Film and Television Production and Post-Production Incentive. This incentive offers a rebate of 25% of qualifying South African production expenditure, or 20% of qualifying post-production expenditure.
What are some tips for filming in South Africa?Start planning early, the filming permit application process can take several weeks. Be prepared for the weather. South Africa has a diverse climate, and it is important to be prepared for all types of weather conditions. Hire a local crew that is familiar with the country and the filming industry. South Africa is a diverse country with a rich culture. It is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs.
What are the costs of filming in South Africa?The costs of filming in South Africa can vary depending on the size and scope of the production. However, South Africa is generally a very cost-effective filming destination, especially when compared to other popular filming destinations such as the United States and Canada.
What are some of the most popular filming locations in South Africa?Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and it offers a wide range of filming locations. Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, and it offers a variety of filming locations, including urban areas, townships, and mining landscapes. Durban is a popular filming location for beach scenes and other outdoor scenes. With its diverse landscapes, competitive costs, and experienced crew, South Africa is a great choice for any production.

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