Ireland Tax Rebate for Film Productions
Ireland has a Tax Rebate available called the Section 481 Tax Credit, which is a 32% rebate of qualified in-country production spending. There is also an additional 2% regional uplift for productions that take place outside Dublin, Wicklow, and Cork City and County, subject to specific training requirements. Payments can be made upfront in two installments, or in full upon completion and on submission of a compliance report.
Ireland has become competitive for international shoots thanks to its tax incentives. The country grants an up-to-80% rebate on total production costs, though it caps the amount at €70 million, or $77.2 million. In return, though, the system requires passing a cultural test and making sure of a minimum in-country spend of $138,000 (€125,000). Application processes can be quite convoluted, with the need to be resident locally or trade through an Irish branch.
Where Ireland offers a tax credit system, Thailand goes one better for the filmmaker, offering higher rebates, fewer restrictions, and a seamless production experience.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand’s Film Incentive Measures mean that filmmakers are faced with a very lucrative cash rebate system, giving productions a rebate of 15% to 30%, depending on the level of qualified spending. Moreover, it is possible to get up to an extra 16% for employing Thai nationals, for tourism or soft power promotion, shooting in designated provinces, or completing post-production in Thailand.
Benefits of Filming in Thailand
Thailand’s tax rebates are among the simplest and most generous in the world. Productions that spend a minimum of $1.4 million (50 million Thai Baht) qualify for a 15% rebate, rising to 25% on budgets above $4.3 million (160 million Thai Baht). Unlike Ireland, there is no cultural test applied by Thailand, and under its single-permit system, access to unlimited locations is available in the shortest time frame-10 days for permits to be issued. Per-project rebates face no cap in Thailand, so its incentives ensure maximum savings.
Unique Selling Points.
- Streamlined Permitting: One permit covers multiple locations.
- Wide Variety of Locations: From bustling cities to serene beaches, Thailand offers diverse landscapes.
- Cost-Effective Production: Lower production costs compared to Western countries.
- Pro-Tourism Incentives: Additional rebates for promoting Thailand’s image and shooting in designated provinces.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Ireland Tax Rebate
Incentive Category | Thailand | Ireland |
---|---|---|
Rebate Value | 30%+ | 30%+ |
Per Project Cap | No Cap | $77.2M (€70M) |
Restrictions | No cultural test; fast permits | Cultural test; complex application |
Permit Process | 10 days | Lacks Clarity |
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 big pool of highly talented, internationally trained crew members who have worked on numerous blockbuster films, global television series, and high-end commercials. A great number speak fluent English to assure smooth communication at all levels throughout the production process.
Access to top-of-the-line equipment in Thailand is hassle-free, with Thailand gaining a significant reputation as a production hub for Southeast Asia. All you need-advanced cameras and special equipment-it’s all here for your needs at competitive rates.
How Mbrella Films Can Help
Navigating Thailand’s film production landscape is effortless with Mbrella Films by your side. With over a decade of experience, Mbrella Films offers comprehensive services tailored to your needs:
- Location Scouting and Permits: From urban landscapes to tropical paradises, Mbrella Films handles location scouting, permitting, and logistics.
- Crew and Equipment Hire: Gain access to a network of experienced crew members and the latest gear, ensuring a smooth and efficient production process.
- English-Speaking Producers: Work with seasoned producers who guide you every step of the way, eliminating potential hurdles.
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.
