Colombia Tax Rebate for Film Productions
Colombia has two main rebate schemes to provide foreign film shoots: the Fondo Fílmico Colombia (FFC) and the Certificado de Inversión Audiovisual en Colombia (CINA). The former offers up to 40% rebate on film services and 20% rebate on logistics services, while the latter offers a 35% transferable tax credit. Although Colombia does offer productions a tax incentive, there are strings attached.
Both programs require services to be provided only by Colombian nationals or companies, and projects must invest a minimum of 1,800 monthly wages’ value—about $450,000. The annual budget for the rebates is capped, with projects approved on a first-come, first-served basis. In other words, your rebate is not a certainty, and operating Colombia’s film production typically demands insider knowledge and a lot of paperwork to deal with.
But what if you could get more incentives, with less complications? Welcome to Thailand.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand offers a tax rebate system that’s not only easier to understand, but more rewarding too.
Under the Thailand Film Incentive Measures, productions can receive up to 30% in cash rebates, based on a minimum spend of approximately $1.4 million USD. The incentive is broken down as follows:
- 15% for qualifying production spend from THB 50 million (~$1.4M)
- 20% from THB 100–150 million (~$2.8–$4.3M)
- 25% for spends over THB 160 million (~$4.3M)
Plus, additional bonuses:
- +5% for hiring Thai nationals in key roles
- +5% for promoting tourism or Thai culture
- +3% for shooting in designated provinces
- +3% for doing post-production in Thailand
Unlike Colombia, Thailand has no annual cap, no cultural test, and offers permits in just 10 days.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Colombia Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Colombia |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rebate | Up to 35% (base + bonuses) | 40% (FFC) / 35% (CINA) |
| Additional Incentives | Yes – up to 16% for tourism, local hires, etc | None |
| Annual Budget Cap | None | Yes – capped and first-come, first-served |
| Permit Process | Clear, fast approvals | Varies – not specified |
| Cultural Test | No | Yes |
Choose Thailand for your next project and enjoy a hassle-free experience with maximum rebates, talented crews, and comprehensive support. For more details on filming in Thailand, download our FREE TAX & LOCATIONS GUIDE today!
Thailand Filming Locations
Pine Forest
Pine forests in the northern region of Thailand blanket the mountains and hills, setting up a perfect backdrop and ambiance for any film production.
Western Houses
Unknown to many, western houses are located outside of Bangkok, ideal for filming. These houses are beautifully built, structurally sound, and mimic homes built in the West.
Studios
Bangkok is home to a multitude of studios, equipped with the latest equipment, sound systems, lights, and everything a production team needs. Filmmakers can easily find and rent a studio in Bangkok without traveling far to find one.
City
Bangkok’s bustling metropolis with neon-dotted cityscape sets the tone for any film production in the heart of the city. Meandering through the heart is the famed Chao Phraya River, perfect for capturing heartfelt and romantic scenes along the river boasting a rich backdrop showcasing Thailand’s icon temples and pagodas.
Islands
With over a thousand islands dotting Thailand’s rolling coastline and the Andaman Sea, each island has charm, mystery, and beauty. Towering, jagged cliffs remain untouched by human hands and serve as a home to the wild animals hiding within the rock crevasses or underwater schisms.
Beaches
Thailand’s sun-kissed beaches are second to none. Layered with soft, white, silky sand, crystal clear waters, and lush terrain, Thailand’s southern beaches serve as the ideal filming location for dramas, romantic comedies, and action and adventure films.
Mountains
North Thailand is home to impressive, lush mountain ranges. During winter months, Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep are cloaked in a sea of fog and the grass is blanketed by dewdrops every morning.
Set Buildings
Crew & Gear
In Thailand, you get access to experienced production crews—many having workedon blockbuster movies, popular TV series, and top commercials. From producers to gaffers, Thailand’s crews are English-speaking, well-trained, and eager to help you with your production.
And the equipment? Thailand is Southeast Asia’s production hub, with the latest equipment and no logistical difficulties.
How Mbrella Films Can Help
Shooting in a foreign nation is never without difficulties, but Mbrella Films makes shooting in Thailand easier than ever. With over ten years of experience, Mbrella handles everything from permits to post-production so that you can focus on your production.
Here’s what Mbrella brings to your project:
Location Scouting: From Bangkok to islands around Thailand, Mbrella can help you find the perfect location.
- Crew & Equipment Hire: Cost-effective and cutting-edge.
- English-speaking Producers: Guiding you step-by-step.
- Full-service Production Support: From concept to wrap.
Ready to make the most of your next production? Let us connect you to a local producer who can help you prequalify for Thailand’s rebate program.
