Croatia Rebate for Film and TV Production
The Croatia incentive is for the “Rebate for Film and TV Production” rebate of 25%, which will be open to local and foreign co-producers for eligible expenditure; with a supplementary incentive, which might come up to as high as 5%, of film productions in less developed parts of Croatia. A mix of different landscapes from the sea, ancient cities to excellent coasts make shooting an appealing venue that major productions, including Game of Thrones, have chosen in various shootings. These come with conditions, however: there is a per-project cap of $734,000 (€663,614), unless the project’s budget exceeds $3 million (€2.7 million) in eligible Croatian spend. This also has an annual budget cap: $11.7 million (€10.6 million).
Productions will need to be qualified based on a specific set of criteria, like a minimum spend of $294,000 (€265,445) for feature films or $110,000 (€99,542) per TV episode. The producers also need to engage local Croatian production companies and be able to prove that most of the crew are citizens of Croatia. However, the limitations and capped incentives may mean this incentive might not work well for major productions.
Thailand offers a far more flexible and generous tax rebate program, which accommodates more types of productions. Here’s why Thailand should be your next filming destination.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
The Incentive Measures program in Thailand has been put in place to help attract international filmmakers, offering a base tax rebate of 15%, with additional bonuses available that can take the total rebate as high as 20%. Productions can receive:
- An extra 5% for promoting tourism or portraying Thailand positively.
- 3% for hiring key Thai personnel.
- 3% for filming in designated tourism locations.
- 2% for allocating at least 15% of eligible expenses to post-production in Thailand.
- A special 5% economic boost for productions spending over $2.9 million (THB 100 million).
Unlike Croatia, Thailand has a much higher per-project cap at $4.4 million (THB 150 million), making it a great option for bigger productions. Besides, the scheme covers an array of projects, from films and TV dramas to documentaries and other audiovisual works. To qualify, productions must spend at least $1.5 million (THB 50 million) on Thai-registered businesses and services.
Thailand’s incentives provide not only financial benefits but also simplify the production process through its supportive infrastructure and experienced local film industry. This, together with the country’s breathtaking locations and vibrant culture, makes Thailand stand out as a superior filming destination.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Croatia Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Croatia |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Rebates | 20%+ | 5% for underdeveloped regions |
| Local Hiring Requirements | 1 local co-coordinator required | 30-50% crew must be Croatian |
| Eligible Projects | Film, TV, other TV, documentary, post-production | Film, TV drama, other TV, documentary |
| Additional Value | Up to 15% for tourism, local hires, and more | None |
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
Thailand has a rich depth of internationally trained crew members who have worked on blockbuster films, global TV series, and high-end commercials. They are highly experienced and fluent in English, which guarantees that there will be no hindrance in communication at any level of production. The local crews are expertly professional and capable of adapting to any international requirement.
Also, Thailand is a production hub within Southeast Asia, so filming equipment is the latest there. Whatever you might need-cameras or special tools-it’s all available. Mbrella Films plays the role of facilitator in this process quite nicely by offering comprehensive services to international filmmakers. With more than a decade of experience, Mbrella Films offers location scouting, permits, crew and equipment hire, and English-speaking producers who guide and support you through every step. This ensures your production is not only well-executed but also cost-effective and stress-free.
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.
