Spain Tax Rebate for Film Productions
Spain, like many other countries in Europe, offers a tax rebate program for film and television productions. The national rebate offers a 30% tax rebate on the first $1.1 million (€1 million) of expenditure and a 25% rebate on additional expenditure. Added to this are regional incentives in Navarre and the Canary Islands that offer rebates of 35% and 50%, respectively, for expenditures of up to $1.1 million (€1 million), and a 45% rebate thereafter.
While Spain’s tax rebate scheme is appealing, it is not without its restrictions. Productions must have minimum spend requirements ($1.1 million/€1 million for international productions and $221,000/€200,000 for animation/post-production) and must partner with a Spanish production company to be eligible. Budget caps and quotas per year, as well as deadlines, can also make planning difficult. With these restrictions, Spain’s tax rebate procedure can be administratively burdensome and restrictive.
Looking for a more generous and less restrictive choice? Thailand offers higher rebate rates, fewer restrictions, and a simple application process, making it a popular choice among filmmakers.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand provides some of the most competitive film tax rebates in the world, with a cash rebate of up to 30% of qualified expenditures. There is no project cap in Thailand, unlike Spain, so productions have unlimited potential to benefit from their rewards.
Benefits of Filming in Thailand:
- Higher rebates: Productions that exceed $4.3 million (160 million THB) in spending receive a 25% rebate, significantly larger than Spain’s maximum national rebate.
- Other incentives: A further 5% for the hiring of Thai nationals in key positions and projects that promote tourism, soft power, or a positive image of Thailand.
- Simplified process: No culture test, one permit for unlimited sites, and clearances in just 10 days.
- No yearly budget limit: In contrast to Spain, Thailand’s rebates are not capped, so production can optimize its financial gains.
- Post-production incentive: Productions that conduct post-production in Thailand receive an additional 3% rebate.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Spain Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Spain |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rebate | 30% | 30% |
| Additional Bonuses | Up to 16% extra for Thai employment, tourism promotion, and post-production | Lacks Clarity |
| Annual Budget Cap | None | Lacks Clarity |
| Permit Process | 10 days, unlimited locations | Lengthy |
| Per-Project Cap | None | $21.7M (€20M) |
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 highly skilled, world-class film crew with experience in blockbuster movies, international television productions, and high-end commercials. Unlike Spain, they don’t need to go through Spanish production companies; Thailand’s professional filmmaking industry is open to them, making it cost-effective and easy.
Why choose Mbrella Films?
Mbrella Films removes the stress from production, handling all of the logistics so that everything goes smoothly from pre- to post-production. Their services include:
- Location scouting & permits: Hassle-free access to Thailand’s diverse landscapes.
- Crew & equipment rental: Very experienced, English-speaking crews at competitive rates.
- Production management: End-to-end support for a hassle-free shoot
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.
