Hungary has introduced a simple and transparent tax incentive mechanism in 2004 to stimulate local film production activities. This financial support system has two pillars: indirect state support (tax incentives for films and related projects) and direct state support (for local films or co-productions).

Feature films, short films, documentaries, science, nature and animated films, TV movies and TV series are eligible for indirect state support.

Feature films, animated films and documentaries (min. 70 minutes) are eligible for direct state support.

Cost benefits: Foreign Producers can reduce their costs up to 37,5% of expenses incurred directly in Hungary. Eligible expenses include all payments contained in the budget that were paid to Hungarian and partially to non-Hungarian taxpayers.

/Tax Rebate Q&A/ - see below

Covid-19 Regulations
Hungary is OPEN for filming!

First of all Hungary is NOT closed for shooting and production. Hungary has closed its borders for tourist travel but work and business related travel for foreigners into Hungary is ALLOWED.

Since November 4th, our government has reintroduced the state of emergency for 90 days. Additionally, since November 10th, a lockdown with a curfew has been issued again, which is imposed between 8PM and 5AM. An exemption is provided for those who are headed to or from their workplace during those hours. All gatherings are prohibited and restaurants are closed except for home delivery and take-out service. Hair-dresses, small craft service providers have to close by 7PM. Leisure facilities are closed, including zoos, museums, theatres, gyms and indoor swimming pools. These restrictions are in place till February 1st.

The good news is that these new regulations do not influence film production as it is work activity, therefore exempt. We can continue preparing and shooting with no interruptions as we have done during the past couple of months. In terms of night shoots and travel during curfew hours, we have a National Film Institute backed letter format we issue to all cast and crew to carry with them in case of any police checks.

In terms of travel: All citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, UK, Sweden, Japan, and several other countries, are allowed to enter Hungary for work purpose. They need to provide an invitation letter, which we will send out before arrival but the there is no more quarantine required. Most airlines are requesting a negative PCR test 48 hours before travel and we organise PCR testing on arrival and before leaving the local accommodation for work.

We are working closely with the Hungarian Film Commission to continuously update us on development and enhancements. Please click here for the official Health Protection Plan for Film Shooting during COVID-19 issued by the Hungarian Film Institute.

/Health protection plan for film shooting during Covid-19 by NFI/