Greece Cash Rebate for Film Productions
The Greek Cash Rebate incentive is for 40% for productions, financing filmmakers for reaching certain thresholds. The minimum eligible expenditure is $109,000 (€100,000) for feature films and $65,000 (€60,000) for documentaries, while the program includes a wide range of production types, such as TV series and animations. For the current operating period, the annual budget cap for the rebate has been extended to $110 million (€100 million), providing a framework for international productions.
While the Greek Cash Rebate does offer incentives, eligibility may be difficult to work your way through. Applications must be sent no later than 10 days before the start of principal photography or post-production. The incentive will be granted only for expenses incurred after a production has had its application registered, which delays important processes.
On the face of it, Greece does offer incentives but it comes with a catch and doesn’t have any extra bonus for things like promotion of tourism and employment of local talents, and that is where Thailand really outsmarts with its more varied and comprehensive package.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
The Incentive Measures of Thailand allow for a cash rebate at a rate of 15%, with additional rates bringing it to as high as 30%, which is highly competitive for international filmmakers. Key bonuses will include:
- 5% for promoting tourism, soft power, or a positive portrayal of Thailand
- 5% for employing Thai nationals in key team positions
- 3% for production in Department of Tourism Designated Provinces
- 3% for productions that not only shoot in Thailand but also do post-production in Thailand
With no per-project cap, Thailand’s incentive supports high-budget productions with a relatively streamlined process in place. Indeed, applicants need only spend $1.4 million (THB 50 million) in Thailand on local services and businesses—a threshold far more achievable than Greece’s minimums.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Greece Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Greece |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Application | Streamlined and well-supported by local coordinators | Complex and time-sensitive |
| Additional Rebates | Bonuses for tourism promotion, Thai hires, and post-production up to 35% worth of rebates | None |
| Application Deadline | Prior to physical shooting | 10 days before principal photography |
| Per Project Cap | None | Lacks Clarity |
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 offers a highly talented pool of English-speaking crew members who have been trained to work on high-profile blockbuster films, international TV series, and commercials. These professionals bring decades of experience to ensure your production runs smoothly. Top-tier equipment and well-established production infrastructure put Thailand at the forefront of filming destinations in Asia.
How Mbrella Films Can Help
Mbrella Films provides full-service production support to make your filming experience in Thailand hassle-free. The services offered include:
- Location Scouting and Logistics: From iconic temples to lush jungles, Mbrella helps secure the perfect settings for your story.
- Crew and Equipment Hire: A curated network of highly experienced professionals and state-of-the-art gear ensures quality and efficiency.
- Permits and Coordination: Mbrella simplifies the administrative process, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
- End-to-End Production Support: From pre-production to post, their team is by your side to guarantee success.
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.
