The 40% Cash Rebate: A Producer's Guide to Filming in Greece

The 40% Cash Rebate: A Producer's Guide to Filming in Greece

For film producers, the bottom line is as important as the creative vision. Greece has firmly established itself as a top-tier filming destination by offering one of the most attractive financial packages in the world: a 40% cash rebate on production expenses. This guide breaks down exactly what the rebate is, who qualifies, and how you can leverage it to significantly reduce the cost of filming in Greece.

What is the Greek Cash Rebate?

The Greek government's flagship program for audiovisual investment incentives Greece is a straightforward and powerful offer. Productions, including feature films, TV series, documentaries, animation, and even video games, can receive a 40% cash rebate on their qualifying expenses incurred in Greece. One of its most attractive features is that there is no upper limit or cap on the amount of rebate a single project can receive, making it ideal for productions of all sizes.

To qualify, projects must pass a simple cultural test, which is designed to be inclusive and is easily met by the vast majority of international co-productions.

Are You Eligible? Key Requirements for Producers

Understanding the eligibility criteria is key to unlocking this incentive. Here’s what you need to know:

• Eligible Expenses: A wide range of in-country expenses qualify for the rebate, including above-the-line and below-the-line labor costs (for Greek and EU/EEA tax residents), equipment rental, location fees, post-production, travel, and accommodation.
• Minimum Spend: To be eligible for the Greece film production incentives, you must meet a minimum spending threshold in Greece. For feature films and TV series, this is typically €100,000.
• Application: The application must be submitted through a registered Greek production company or a Greek co-producer.

The Application Process, Step-by-Step

Navigating the application process is a clear, four-step journey:

1. Partner with a Greek Production Company: This is your first and most critical move. You need to engage a local production partner who has a proven track record with the rebate system. 2. Submit the Application: Your Greek partner will prepare and submit the application to the National Centre of Audiovisual Media and Communication (EKOME), the body that manages the program. 3. Production and Audit: Once your project is approved, you can begin production. Upon completion, all qualifying expenses must be verified by an independent auditor in Greece. 4. Receive the Rebate: After the audit is submitted and approved, the 40% cash rebate is transferred directly to the producer's bank account, typically within six months.

How a Local Fixer Maximizes Your Rebate

This is where knowing how to hire a production company in Greece becomes a strategic advantage. An experienced Greek fixer or production company does more than just handle logistics; they are your strategic partner in maximizing the financial benefits.

An expert team of fixers in Greece will:

• Help structure your budget to maximize eligible Greek spend.
• Manage the entire application process with EKOME.
• Act as the official liaison with all government bodies and auditors.
• Ensure flawless compliance with all legal and financial requirements, minimizing risk and ensuring a smooth payout.

Conclusion

The 40% cash rebate for filming in Greece is a game-changer for producers. It transforms a country known for its beauty into a powerhouse of financial viability. By partnering with the right local experts, you can unlock the full potential of this incentive and make your creative vision a reality for a fraction of the cost.

Ready to see how much your project could save? Contact us today for a personalized assessment and a detailed guide to our production services for international clients in Greece.