Malta Cash Rebate for Film Productions
Malta offers an incentive package through the Malta Cash Rebate, which many productions seek to capitalize on for cost savings. It offers a 30% rebate on live-action productions and 25% for animation and VFX, making it an option for filmmakers. Additional rebates of 5% for live-action productions featuring Malta or utilizing local facilities, and 15% for animation/VFX productions with cultural elements.
The Malta Cash Rebate is granted to a wide range of productions, from film and TV drama to documentaries, with a minimum spend of $109,000 (€100,000) and an overall budget of over $221,000 (€200,000). While Malta has a fairly well-organized rebate system in place, there are some burdens, such as an application deadline of 30 working days ahead of principal photography and budgetary caps on above-the-line costs.
While Malta’s tax rebate is undoubtedly attractive, Thailand offers an even more compelling case for international productions, boasting a higher rebate percentage, more flexibility, and a production-friendly ecosystem that simplifies the entire filming process.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
In terms of filming incentives, there is little where Malta beats Thailand. Certainly, with a maximum of up to 30% in incentives through the Thailand Film Incentive Measures, the country has reached one of the most attractive destinations for filmmakers.
Additionally, Thailand provides extra bonuses, including:
- 5% rebate for productions hiring Thai nationals in key positions.
- 5% rebate for projects that promote Thai tourism, soft power, or a positive image of Thailand.
- 3% rebate for shooting in designated provinces.
- 3% rebate for productions that also complete post-production in Thailand.
Unlike Malta, there are no per-project caps on rebates in Thailand, nor minimum spend restrictions, and film permits can be obtained in just 10 days. The ease of approval for filming, in addition to the very active filming landscape, makes Thailand a natural choice for any production seeking efficiency, affordability, and world-class support.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Malta Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Malta |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Processing | 10 days | Long approval process |
| Per-Project Cap | No cap | Hybrid cap |
| Crew & Equipment | Abundant, internationally trained, English-speaking | Limited availability, higher costs |
| Rebate Value | 30% | 30% |
| Additional Bonuses | Up to 16% | Up to 5-15% |
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 boasts a large pool of highly experienced, internationally trained crew members who have worked on blockbuster films, high-profile TV series, and major commercial productions. Many of these professionals are English-speaking, thus guaranteeing smooth communication and seamless workflow on set.
With Thailand being the biggest production center in Southeast Asia, accessing the latest equipment without logistical headaches that can occur elsewhere is pretty easy for filmmakers, due to top-class equipment rental services.
How Mbrella Films Can Help
Navigating Thailand’s film production landscape is effortless with Mbrella Films. With over a decade of experience, Mbrella Films offers end-to-end production support, including:
- Location Scouting & Logistics – From bustling cities to tranquil beaches, Thailand offers diverse landscapes for every type of production.
- Crew & Equipment Hire – Access top-tier talent and cutting-edge equipment at competitive rates.
- English-Speaking Producers – Work with experienced professionals who guide you through every step of the production process.
