United Kingdom Creative Sector Tax Reliefs For Film Productions
The United Kingdom has long been the go-to destination for filming with its Creative Sector Tax Reliefs, which provide a level 25% rebate on up to 80% of principal expenditure spent or incurred in the UK.
But there are some strings attached. To begin with, eligibility means that your production company must be a UK corporate taxpayer, and your project must meet standards of a cultural test or be a co-production. There is then the 10% minimum in-country spend and limitations on platform type—films have to be for theatrical release, whereas TV has to be broadcastable, including VOD or internet-based services. And on top of that, no more rebate value for tourism marketing, local hiring, or post-production—so 25% is the best you’re going to get, regardless of how well your film does to spur the UK economy.
But what if you could get more for your money—with fewer restrictions? Welcome to Thailand.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
If you’re looking to maximize your production value and your rebate, Thailand offers a far more dynamic and rewarding alternative. Through the Thailand Film Incentive Measures, productions can receive up to a 30% cash rebate for qualified spending. But that’s just the beginning.
Thailand offers an additional 5% rebate for productions employing Thai nationals in lead roles, an additional 5% for tourism or promotion of soft power, and up to 6% overall for filming in target provinces and post-production within Thailand. That adds up to a potential additional rebate of 16%—with no cap per project.
There is no culture test and you only need one permit to film in unlimited locations. Better still, permits are issued within 10 days, giving you less paperwork and more time for your production.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. United Kingdom Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rebate | 30%+ | 25% (of 80% UK spend) |
| Additional Bonuses | Up to 16% | None |
| Release Criterias | None | Films must be intended for theatrical release and television programmes must be intended for broadcast (including video‐on‐demand and internet broadcast). |
| Permit Process | 10 days, unlimited locations | Varies |
| Cultural Test | None | Requires Cultural Test or must be a British Co-Production |
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 is not only beneficial in terms of rebates and incentives. Thailand is home to a vast talent pool of internationally trained, English-speaking crew with decades of experience on blockbuster films, international television shows, and high-end commercial shoots.
Additionally, Thailand is a production center for Asia, with world-class equipment, cameras, and technical support that you can utilize to enhance your project.
How Mbrella Films Can Help You
Mbrella Films is your reliable solution to making sense of the production landscape of Thailand. Established over a decade ago, we’ve produced international productions, doing everything from pre- to post-production with thorough care. Whether it’s scouting locations or equipment and crew rentals, or permitting, Mbrella’s producers are fluent in English and can guide you through it all to make your production better.
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.
