Film Fixers in Croatia: Permits, Drones, Customs & Everything You Need to Know
croatia

With its stunning coastlines, historic cities, and world-class film infrastructure, Croatia has become one of Europe’s most desirable filming locations. From Game of Thrones to Star Wars, producers continue to choose Croatia for its versatility, affordability, and visual appeal.

But to fully leverage the benefits of filming in this spectacular country, you need more than a great script—you need reliable film fixers in Croatia who understand local logistics, legal requirements, and how to make things happen on the ground.

That’s where Atlas Film Fixers comes in. We offer full-service production support with a distinctly local approach. Here’s what you need to know before you film in Croatia—and how we make it seamless.

Film Permits in Croatia: What’s the Process?

Filming requires coordination with national and municipal authorities, especially when using public spaces or heritage sites.

Atlas Film Fixers handles the entire permitting process, including applications, translations, location negotiations, and local authority liaison—ensuring your shoot stays compliant and on schedule.

  • Public Locations: Permits are issued by city or county offices (e.g., Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb). Each municipality has its own timeline and requirements, which our team navigates daily.
  • Historic & Protected Sites: Many coastal towns, national parks, and UNESCO-listed areas require special authorization from the Ministry of Culture or nature protection agencies.
  • Traffic Control, Police & Military Areas: We coordinate directly with law enforcement and, if needed, the Ministry of Defence for filming in restricted areas.

Customs Clearance for Film Equipment

Bringing equipment is straightforward for EU-based productions, but foreign crews (particularly from the US, UK, and Asia) must plan ahead.

Our customs agents work out of all major points of entry, including Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka airports. With Atlas Film Fixers managing your logistics, you’ll avoid costly delays at the border.

  • ATA Carnet: Recommended for non-EU productions to avoid import duties.
  • Temporary Importation: If you’re not using a carnet, we can arrange customs clearance through local freight forwarders.
  • Gear Transport & Storage: We handle airport pickups, bonded warehousing, and on-set delivery of your equipment.

Drone Filming in Croatia: What Are the Rules?

Drone usage in Croatia is regulated by the Croatian Civil Aviation Agency, in accordance with EU drone laws. Commercial drone operators must meet specific criteria.

Atlas handles all drone permit applications, including coordination with aviation authorities and local police. If needed, we can also provide licensed Croatian drone pilots to simplify the process further.

  • Operator Registration: Mandatory for non-EU and EU-based operators. We assist with fast-tracked local registration.
  • Flight Permissions: Required for urban areas, national parks, and airspace near airports or military zones.
  • Insurance & Pilot License: Proof of commercial liability insurance and a certified drone operator is essential.

Local Crews, Casting & Production Services

Croatia offers a deep pool of experienced, bilingual film professionals—from gaffers and stylists to location managers and coordinators.

Thanks to a strong service industry and non-union labour structure, Croatia offers flexibility that benefits both indie and studio-scale productions.

  • Crew Sourcing: We have access to vetted crew in Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, and more.
  • Casting: We arrange both principal and extras casting, including local talent and street casting.
  • Vendors & Rentals: Whether you need grip trucks, production vehicles, or costume houses, we’ll connect you with trusted suppliers at local rates.

Accommodations, Transport & On-the-Ground Support

Our bilingual fixers are on set daily, ensuring smooth communication and proactive problem-solving—before issues arise.

Atlas Film Fixers offers full logistical coordination:

  • Hotel and apartment bookings tailored to your crew size and budget.
  • Ground transport, including VIP cars, crew vans, and gear trucks.
  • Translation, catering, and production office setup services.

Film Incentives: Up to 30% Rebate in Croatia

Croatia offers one of Europe’s most attractive film incentive programs—up to 30% cash rebate on qualifying local spend.

Atlas Film Fixers manages the full rebate application, from budget planning and structuring to paperwork submission and audit compliance. We make sure your project is structured to maximize the incentive and get your money back.

  • 25% Base Rebate for all qualifying productions.
  • Additional 5% for productions filming in underdeveloped regions or employing Croatian cast and crew.
  • Eligible formats: Feature films, TV series, animation, documentaries, and post-production.
  • Minimum local spend: €250,000 for feature films.

Why Producers Trust Atlas Film Fixers as Their Local Partner in Croatia

We’re more than fixers—we’re your local production arm in Croatia. Our team lives and works in-country, with deep relationships across ministries, municipalities, studios, and suppliers. We understand the local workflow, culture, and pace of production.

Whether you’re filming a car chase through the streets of Split or a historical drama in the alleyways of Dubrovnik, Atlas Film Fixers is seen as a Croatian partner, not a foreign service.

Let’s Get Rolling in Croatia

If you’re looking for dependable, experienced film fixers in Croatia who can handle everything from permits to rebates with a local touch, Atlas Film Fixers is here to help.

Get in touch today and let’s plan your shoot—on time, on budget, and stress-free.

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