Film Permit Morocco: What you need to know before filming
Morocco has become a magnet for international film, television, and commercial productions thanks to its cinematic landscapes, diverse architecture, and reliable weather. But before rolling cameras, foreign crews must navigate the country’s legal framework—starting with securing a film permit in Morocco.
As a production and post-production agency based in Marrakech, we specialize in facilitating filming logistics across the country, including the handling of all official permits. In this article, we outline what you need to know about obtaining a film permit in Morocco, what role your Moroccan production partner plays, and how we can support your team from prep to wrap.
Who Issues Film Permits in Morocco?
The Centre Cinématographique Marocain (CCM) is the official authority that regulates and authorizes film productions in Morocco. Whether you’re shooting a feature film, documentary, music video, or branded content, your project must be registered and approved by the CCM.
Foreign production companies cannot apply directly. You must partner with a Moroccan company that holds an “autorisation d’exercice et agrément de production”—a special license allowing them to act on behalf of international producers.
Why You Need a Moroccan Production Partner
The Moroccan government requires that most film-related permits be submitted through a locally accredited production company. This applies to a wide range of content, including:
- Feature and short films
- Television dramas and series
- Reality shows and docu-series
- Documentaries
- Music videos
- Institutional and corporate films
- Branded digital content
Your local partner is more than just a legal facilitator. They ensure full compliance with national laws, coordinate with authorities, manage local crew and suppliers, and handle production-related transactions in accordance with Moroccan financial regulations (including VAT, tax, and insurance matters).
Our Role as Your Production Partner
As your service partner in Morocco, we take care of the administrative and legal side of filming so that your team can stay focused on creativity. Our responsibilities typically include:
- Preparing and submitting your CCM permit application
- Advising on shoot locations and restrictions
- Handling contracts and payments with local crew and vendors
- Managing a dedicated production account if needed
- Coordinating any required security or municipal authorizations
- Navigating customs clearance and gear importation
We act as the bridge between your creative team and the local environment—ensuring that your shoot is compliant, on budget, and on schedule.
How to Apply for a Film Permit in Morocco
The film permit process varies slightly depending on the type of production. In general, it involves:
- Identifying your Moroccan partner (with CCM accreditation)
- Submitting a detailed script or treatment to the CCM
- Providing a shooting schedule and location list
- Including crew lists, gear details, and insurance documentation
- Waiting for review and approval (typically within a few days to a few weeks)
Permit timelines can vary depending on the type and scale of the project. Larger productions (feature films, series, or docu-fiction) may require additional clearance or location-specific authorizations.
We Support You at Every Step
At our company, we understand that each project is different. That’s why we approach every production with tailored support, budget transparency, and creative collaboration. Whether you’re planning a shoot in the medina of Marrakech, the dunes of the Sahara, or the coastal towns of Essaouira, we’re here to make the process smooth and efficient.
If you’re preparing to shoot in Morocco and need help securing your film permit, feel free to reach out to our team for a consultation. We’ll guide you through the process and make sure everything is in place for a successful production.
For more information or assistance with your application, contact us today.
