Film Rebate

Film rebates, a significant aspect of fiscal incentives in the filmmaking industry, play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of film production, encouraging economic growth, and fostering international collaboration. A film rebate is essentially a financial incentive provided by governments or local authorities to filmmakers and production companies as a percentage-based return on qualifying expenditures incurred during the production process.

The purpose of film rebates is multifaceted. Firstly, they aim to attract filmmakers to choose specific locations for their productions. Governments strategically design rebate programs to entice filmmakers to shoot in their regions, offering financial advantages that contribute to the overall economic development of the area. This can lead to increased employment opportunities, the engagement of local businesses, and a boost in tourism, all of which contribute to the economic vitality of the region.

The film rebate system often includes criteria that filmmakers must meet to qualify for the incentive. These criteria may involve spending a certain amount of the production budget locally, hiring local talent and crews, or engaging in activities that align with the region's economic and cultural goals.

Countries like Hungary, Canada, and New Zealand have gained international recognition for their successful film rebate programs. The incentives provided by these countries have attracted major Hollywood productions, independent filmmakers, and television series, turning these locations into bustling hubs for the global film industry.

One notable application of film rebates is in the promotion of cultural exchange. By providing financial incentives to international filmmakers, governments encourage cross-border collaboration and facilitate the sharing of diverse perspectives and storytelling traditions. This not only enriches the local film industry but also contributes to a global cinematic tapestry that reflects a rich variety of cultures and narratives.

In conclusion, film rebates represent a strategic and effective tool for governments to stimulate economic growth, attract international filmmakers, and promote cultural exchange. As an integral part of the filmmaking ecosystem, these incentives create a win-win scenario, benefiting both the film industry and the regions that become the backdrop for captivating stories on the silver screen.

How much is the rebate?

Basic Information

  • All local Hungarian expense will qualify for a 30% rebate.
  • Up to 25% of the eligible expenses can be non-Hungarian, which still qualifies for the 30% tax rebate.
  • Both Local and Foreign Spend, regardless of currency (USD, EUR, GBP, HUF), are acceptable, even if expended outside Hungary.
  • There are no minimum spending requirements or caps per project, and there's no annual fiscal budget limit.
  • It is a post-financing cash refund. Possible to audit on a monthly/quarterly basis, or one time.

Eligible type of productions

  • Feature films, series, documentaries, short films and animations made for cinematic release, streamers, televisions or other distribution platforms, and also video games.
  • Exclusion includes Porn films and extremely violent films as well as commercials, TV sitcoms, reality shows, daily soaps.

Further Information

About

Hungarian Tax Rebate | Lions Production Servicing Commercials and Feature Films

As producers in the film production realm, we connect film-makers from around the world with local department leaders who already proved their excellence. We are one of the top film production companies in Hungary, striving to provide our clients with perfect conditions for their shoot in Budapest. Our diverse experience in the industry ensures the widest skillset, supplier network and efficient approach for all productions where talent and crew can perform at their very best in service of the vision. Having worked on local blockbusters, service productions for European and US producers and with international A list stars gives us continuous confidence to create this environment. We are committed to green services, therefore we offset the carbon footprint of all production through inves ...

Company

  • Producing film and TV

  • Producing advertising campaigns

  • Producing Hungarian feature films and television series
  • International co-productions

Want to know more about the Hungarian tax rebate?

On the questions and answers page, we have collected the most important questions that will help you get more accurate information about tax rebates.

FAQ

Topics mentioned

Film RebateTax Rebate HungaryTax Incentives Hungary Film IndustryHungarian Tax RebateEligible Spending in HungaryTax Credit in Hungary