Portugal Film and Audiovisual Production under the Support Fund for Tourism for Film Productions
Portugal offers international shoots with its Incentive for Film and Audiovisual Production under the Support Fund for Tourism and Film. The program offers a 25% tax rebate on qualified expenditure, with a 5% bonus for projects with significant cultural and economic value. Productions shot in low-population density locations or utilizing actors and technicians with disabilities can even get a 40% rebate.
While these incentives are a cause for financial relief, they do have their limitations. The $4.3 million (€4 million) limit per project can hinder larger productions from being able to benefit to the best of their abilities. The $15.4 million (€14 million) budget limit per year also entails that competition for funds is tough. Productions must also pass a cultural test and must have a minimum spend of $553,000 (€500,000) for most projects and $276,000 (€250,000) for documentaries or post-production services. The application process is not that transparent, and this can be another obstacle for international productions.
While Portugal offers a structured tax rebate system, Thailand’s film incentives present a far more accessible opportunity for filmmakers looking to maximize their budgets and creative freedom.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand is also becoming the leading destination for international productions with a cash rebate scheme that offers up to 30% of qualified spending, in addition to many other benefits. The Thailand Film Incentive Measures make Thailand one of the most cost-effective places to shoot because of its higher rebate levels and lower limitations compared to Portugal.
Here’s why Thailand stands out:
- Base rebates: 15% for productions spending at least 50 million Thai Baht ($1.4M), increasing to 20% for expenditures of $2.8M-$4.3M, and 25% for spending over $4.3M.
- Bonus rebates: Additional 5% for productions employing Thai nationals in key positions, 5% for promoting Thai tourism or culture, 3% for filming in Department of Tourism Designated Provinces, and 3% for completing post-production in Thailand.
- No cap on rebates per project – unlike Portugal, Thailand has no ceiling on how much a single production can claim.
- Faster and simpler process – No cultural test required, one permit covers unlimited locations, and permits are approved in just 10 days.
Thailand’s tax rebate program offers more, is flexible, and quicker than Portugal’s, therefore making it the best option for productions that need to stretch their budgets as far as possible while still having world-class locations and production services.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Portugal Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Portugal |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Rebate | 30%+ | 25% |
| Additional Bonuses | Up to 16% | Up to 15% |
| Annual Budget Cap | No cap | $15.4M (€14M) |
| Application Process | 10 days, fast & reliable | Unclear & bureaucratic |
| Cultural Test Required | None | Yes |
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
Apart from the competitive rewards, Thailand has a top-class production infrastructure so that shooting here can be trouble-free and affordable. The country has talented, internationally trained crews with long experience in handling blockbusters, international TV productions, and commercials. Thailand’s crews are English-speaking, locally stationed, and experienced to ensure productions go smoothly.
When it comes to equipment, Thailand is the film production hub of Southeast Asia, providing state-of-the-art gear and facilities. Productions can easily source everything from top-tier cameras and lighting to specialized rigs and post-production services without the hassle of importing expensive equipment.
How Mbrella Films Can Help
It may be difficult to navigate a foreign film industry, but Mbrella Films takes care of your production in Thailand from start to finish. Mbrella Films has more than a decade of experience in international film production and provides end-to-end services, such as:
- Location Scouting & Logistics: Whether you need scenes in jungles, cityscapes, or beaches, Mbrella Films will secure the best locations with all necessary permits.
- Crew & Equipment Hire: Gain access to Thailand’s top-tier film crews and the latest film technology at affordable rates.
- English-speaking Producers: Work with experienced professionals who guide you through every step of the production process, ensuring comfort and 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.
