The world of film production is increasingly global, with filmmakers seeking the best opportunities for financing and incentives that can support their creative visions. Greece and Croatia, two countries with rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, offer a range of financial incentives aimed at fostering the growth of the audiovisual industry.
GREECE
Financing through the Greek Film Centre (GFC)
The Greek Film Centre (GFC) is a public entity that offers financial support for national and international film projects. Through this fund, filmmakers can access various public financing lines for development, production, and distribution.
Incentives for Filming in Greek Locations
Discounts and additional benefits: Productions can receive discounts on location fees and benefits if they choose to film in less touristy or less developed areas. These measures aim to promote the more remote and underdeveloped regions of Greece.
VAT Exemption on Audiovisual Production
The Greek government has also implemented VAT exemptions for products and services related to audiovisual production. This includes VAT exemptions on equipment rental, location fees, post-production services, and other expenses directly linked to the production of films, television, and digital content.
More information here
CROATIA
Cash Rebate Incentive
One of Croatia’s primary tax incentives for international audiovisual productions is a cash rebate program. This program is designed to attract foreign producers and facilitate local production by offering a cash rebate of up to 25% of eligible expenses.
Eligible Expenses:
This includes expenses such as local staff salaries, equipment rental, transportation, accommodation, and other expenses directly related to production.
Beneficiaries:
This incentive is available for international productions carried out in Croatia, as well as for international co-productions involving Croatian participation.
Deadline:
The cash rebate is granted once the expenses have been incurred and the corresponding invoices are submitted.
Croatian Film Fund (Hrvatski Audiovizualni Centar – HAVC)
The Croatian Film Fund is the main institution responsible for supporting audiovisual production in the country. Through this fund, various financing lines are offered for national projects, including:
- Call for applications for the 2025 Croatian Minority Co-production Support Program
Involves co-productions where the financial participation of Croatian producers, including public and private funding, qualifies as official co-production under international treaties.
At least 60% of the funds must be spent in Croatia.
Eligible Works:
- Feature films and short films (fiction, documentaries, animation, experimental, and all films in post-production).
Applicant Requirements:
Applicants must be individuals or legal entities registered in Croatia or have production activities there.
Ineligibility and Exclusions:
- Commissioned, educational, commercial, or advertising films.
- Applicants with outstanding debts to HAVC or previous legal issues.
- Companies in financial difficulties or undergoing insolvency procedures.
Call for Applications here