Fiji launches new film visa to attract global productions

Fiji has introduced a new film visa in a move aimed at attracting more overseas film productions and growing the country’s creative industry.

The new visa was announced following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Immigration and Film Fiji today in Suva.

The agreement formalises how both agencies will work together to support international film crews operating in Fiji.

For many years, Film Fiji and the Ministry of Immigration have worked closely to assist foreign productions, with Film Fiji promoting Fiji as a filming destination and immigration authorities processing business visas and work permits. Until now, film crews were processed under general visa categories.

Film Fiji chief executive officer Jone Robertson said the MoU marks a major change for the industry.

“This MOU sets a tone and a structure of how Film Fiji and immigration will work together to attract international productions to Fiji,” Mr Robertson said.

He said the agreement will streamline work permits, arrival processes, and compliance requirements for international crews, while still following immigration laws.

“This is to streamline work permits, to streamline their arrivals into the country, and all the obligations that these international crew members need to meet, while also maintaining immigration policies within the legal framework,” he said.

Mr Robertson said the most significant outcome of the agreement is the creation of a film-specific visa.

“This also gives the film industry a film visa. It’s no longer going to be incorporated in other sectors,” he said.

“It’s going to be specific for the film industry, which is a great achievement because this has never happened before.”

He said the new visa will make Fiji more competitive in the international film market and reduce delays for production teams.

“Moving forward, we will work together to develop and grow Fiji’s presence in international markets by promoting Fiji as a film destination,” Mr Robertson said.

The Government hopes the new film visa will encourage more international productions to choose Fiji, creating jobs for locals and boosting the country’s film and tourism industries.

Feedback: rariqi.turner@fijisun.com.fj