Filming in Montenegro: A Complete Guide to Incentives, Permits & Production Support

Film Rebate Overview

Montenegro offers a 25% cash rebate on eligible production expenses incurred in the country. The incentive applies to feature films, TV series, documentaries, and animated projects. To qualify, productions must meet minimum spend requirements and pass a cultural test. The rebate is processed through the Montenegro Film Centre, with funds typically disbursed within six months of project completion.

Eligibility Requirements for Film Rebate

To qualify for Montenegro’s 25% cash rebate, productions must meet the following criteria:

Eligible Projects:

• Feature Films – Independent and studio-backed productions
• Scripted Television Series – Reality TV and game shows do not qualify
• Feature Documentaries – Covering cultural, social, and other topics

Not Eligible:

• Commercials
• Unscripted TV formats (e.g., reality TV, game shows)

Additionally, productions must meet a minimum local spend of €100,000, ensuring significant investment in Montenegro’s economy.

Why Film in Montenegro with Atlas Film Fixers?

Stunning Natural Beauty

Montenegro boasts breathtaking landscapes, from dramatic mountains and lush valleys to ancient coastal towns and pristine beaches, providing a stunning backdrop for any production.

Rich History and Culture

Capture the essence of historic cities like Kotor and Budva, renowned for their medieval architecture and vibrant cultural traditions.

Film-Friendly Environment

Montenegro offers competitive incentives, an expanding film infrastructure, and an experienced local crew to support international productions.

Seamless Production Support

Atlas Film Fixers ensures a smooth and efficient production process, managing all logistics so you can focus on bringing your vision to life. Contact us today for expert production services in Montenegro.

Country Overview

Located in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Montenegro offers a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and historical sites, making it an attractive destination for international TV and film production.

Time Zone

Central European Time (CET, UTC+1)

Bordering Countries

• Croatia (west)
• Bosnia and Herzegovina (northwest)
• Serbia (northeast)
• Kosovo (east)
• Albania (southeast)

Popular Locations

• Bay of Kotor – A stunning fjord-like bay with picturesque towns and villages.
• Budva Old Town – A medieval walled city with narrow streets and historic architecture.
• Lovćen National Park – A rugged mountain range with panoramic views.

Local Languages

Montenegrin (official), Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian, and English are widely spoken.

Local Currency

Euro (€)

When to Shoot

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists, making them ideal for filming.

Visa Requirements

General Requirements

Montenegro follows the Schengen visa policy, requiring pre-approved visas for citizens from Africa, the Middle East, Southern Asia, and Southeast Asia. Requirements depend on the duration of stay.

Required Documentation

• Nationality-specific requirements
• Length of stay
• Role in the production

Common Documents

• Apostilles
• Country-specific verifications
• Letters of invitation
• Passport (up to 90 days) for countries with no additional requirements

Timings

Allow 60 days for document collection and processing & schedule appointments with the Montenegrin or Serbian consulate in the traveller’s home country.

Costs

• Short-stay visas: Approx. €50
• Extended-stay visas: Approx. €150

Visa Application Information

There is no online visa application platform for Montenegro, but details can be found here: Montenegro Government – Visas and Entry Requirements

International Crew Accreditation

Montenegro does not currently require crew accreditation due to limited studio and set-lot infrastructure.

Montenegro Film Permits

Permitting Authority

• Ministry of Culture – Issues general broadcast production permits.
• Regional Authorities – Additional permits required for specific locations.
• Historical Areas – Separate permits required for filming in heritage sites.
• National Parks – Specific permits required for protected locations.

Timings

General location permits: Issued within 30 days of application & project scope may affect processing time.

Required Documentation

• Official production company documents
• Crew member list
• Location and shoot duration details
• Description of final product’s broadcast scope
• Copy of the final broadcast submitted to the Montenegro Kinotek archives upon completion

Costs

• General filming permit: Approx. €50
• Historic district permits (e.g., Kotor Old Town): Up to €2,000/day
• National Parks permit: Approx. €300

Private Locations

Permission Process

Obtain signed (and possibly notarized) permission from the landowner & scope of project and required modifications may affect permission requirements.

Cost

• Negotiated directly with the location owner.
• Permit for filming falls under the general filming permit (approx. €50).

Drone Permits

Regulations

• Montenegro’s drone regulations align with EU policies.
• Additional registrations required for professional drone operation.

Drone Importation Regulations

• Register drones locally with the Montenegrin Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
• Register drone pilot credentials, including license number.
• Licensing requirements vary based on drone size, flight plan, and location.

Permitting Authority

Montenegrin CAA (Civil Aviation Authority)

Local Drone Registration

Same registration and licensing requirements for local and foreign operators.

Drone Importation Registration

• Drones must be included in the importer’s ATA Carnet.
• Additional documentation may be required for multiple drones or drones exceeding €15,000 in value.

Timings

Registration is typically completed within 30 days, provided EU specifications are met.

Costs

Minimal cost: Approx. €20

Equipment Customs Clearance

Carnet Status

Montenegro is a Carnet country, simplifying customs clearance for film equipment.

Clearance Process

The process follows EU standards, with recognized ATA Carnets.

Required Documents

• ATA Carnet – Required for all temporary equipment imports.
• Additional clearance document for equipment valued over €15,000.

Issuing Authority

Ministry of Economy

Processing Time

Clearance is typically granted within 30 days of application.

Costs

• ATA Carnet fees depend on the application method.
• Ministry of Economy clearance fee: Approx. €20

Safety & Security

Montenegro is considered a safe country with low rates of violent crime, though some risks exist:

• Opportunistic theft when equipment is left unattended.
• Pickpocketing in tourist areas.
• Traffic-related incidents due to inadequate road infrastructure.
• Hospitals are well-equipped for emergencies but may not handle complex procedures.

Security Requirements

There is no mandatory security protocol for productions, but various security services are available:

• VIP security
• Location security
• Studio security

Contact Atlas Film Fixers for Your Montenegro Production

Atlas Film Fixers provides expert production support, from permits to logistics, ensuring a seamless experience. Get in touch today to bring your project to life in Montenegro!