Norway Film Rebate for Film Productions
Norway’s film industry offers a 25% tax credit through the Norwegian Incentive Scheme. At first glance, it would be a good deal, but the incentive comes with significant hurdles. The applicants must have produced at least one widely released film, drama series, or documentary series in the previous five years. In addition, at least 30% of the budget must come from foreign funds, and an international distribution arrangement must exist before an application is made. These limitations make it difficult for most productions to achieve their needs.
In addition to the eligibility limitations, Norway’s scheme has an annual budget limit of $9.7 million (NOK 100 million), so when the money is exhausted, producers have to wait for the next round. The deadline is also strict, November 23, 2023, restricting flexibility for productions that are not on this schedule. Furthermore, Norway’s expensive production costs can easily negate the advantage of the rebate.
On the other hand, Thailand has an incomparably simpler and more lucrative rebate program, so it is the preferable choice for manufacturers who want to maximize their budget while having ease of approval.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand’s Film Incentive Measures offer a flexible and highly rewarding rebate system, with productions capable of recouping up to 30% of qualifying spend. The scheme starts at 15% for productions spending 50 million Thai Baht (approx. $1.4M), increases to 20% for spend between 100–150 million Thai Baht (approx. $2.8–4.3M), and reaches 25% for spend above 160 million Thai Baht (approx. $4.3M). In contrast to Norway, Thailand has bonuses:
- 5% rebate for productions employing Thai nationals in key positions
- 5% rebate for projects promoting tourism or Thailand’s soft power
- 3% rebate for filming in designated tourism provinces
- 3% rebate for productions that conduct post-production in Thailand
As opposed to Norway’s restricted system, there is no restriction per project and no firm time limit of application in Thailand. The process is fast, formal, and reliable, and within 10 days, the permit is granted. Thailand further keeps its doors open to all sorts of productions like feature films, TV dramas, documentaries, etc., without having an international sale agreement and any minimum budget obligation.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Norway Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Norway |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Rebate | 30%+ | 25% |
| Additional Bonuses | Up to 16% | None |
| Annual Budget Cap | No cap | $9.7M (NOK 100M) |
| Application Process | Simple, fast approval (10 days) | Lengthy and restrictive process |
| Minimum Spend Required | None | $2.4M for films, $967,500 for TV docs |
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
Shooting in Thailand provides access to a highly trained, internationally experienced crew with a long track record of working on high-budget movies, international TV dramas, and high-end commercials. Locally sourced industry professionals are English-speaking, educated, and available, providing smooth working practices and efficient workflow.
Apart from that, Thailand has become a leading production hub in Southeast Asia, and one can now have access to the latest machinery and equipment at affordable prices. Unlike Norway, where delays can occur in the production process due to issues, Thailand provides a hassle-free experience in acquiring top-of-the-line equipment.
How Mbrella Films Can Help
Mbrella Films is your choice companion for navigating the Thailand film production landscape. Mbrella offers turn-key solutions with over ten years of service, spanning the whole cycle of pre- to post-production for an uninterrupted shooting experience. Through every process stage, they will guide you alongside English-speaking producers, ensuring, meanwhile, smoothness of flow by expertise knowledge on location research, licensing issues, staff poaching, and gear supply.
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.
