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

Film Rebate Overview

Poland’s film rebate program, managed by the Polish Film Institute (PFI), offers a substantial 30% rebate on qualified Polish expenditures for feature films, TV series, animations, and documentaries. This initiative encourages the growth of the Polish audiovisual industry and promotes local culture, making Poland a compelling choice for international productions.

Eligibility Requirements for the Polish Film Rebate

Applicants: Eligible applicants include producers, co-producers, or service providers overseeing production costs within Poland. Rebate Amount: 30% on approved Polish expenditures. Financial Limits:

• Maximum Rebate: Up to PLN 15 million (around EUR 3.33 million or USD 4.05 million) per project.
• Annual Cap: PLN 20 million (approximately EUR 4.76 million or USD 5.4 million) per applicant per year. Annual Budget: PLN 200 million (around EUR 47.6 million or USD 54 million), with at least 10% dedicated to animation projects.

Application Process

• Submission Limits: Each applicant may submit up to four projects per application round, including any previously submitted projects awaiting decisions.
• Required Documentation: Applications should include a script, director’s statement, synopsis, budget breakdown, cost estimates, and a script rights agreement—all in Polish.
• Proof of Financing: Applicants must provide letters of intent or co-production agreements to confirm remaining financing
• .Review Timeline: Applications are generally reviewed within 90 days.
• Final Decision: The General Director of PFI makes the final decision, based on expert assessments.
• Grant Validity: Approved grants are valid for six months, with an optional six-month extension.

Co-Production Rules

Majority Co-Productions:

Must adhere to the European Convention on Co-production and are eligible for subsidies up to PLN 4 million (around EUR 1 million), or 50% of the total project budget.

Minority Co-Productions:

• Bilateral Co-Productions: Polish contributions must be at least 20% of the total budget.
• Multilateral Co-Productions: Polish contributions must be at least 10% of the total budget. Subsidy Limits:
• European Feature Films: Up to PLN 2 million (around EUR 500,000).
• Non-European Feature Films: Up to PLN 1.5 million (around EUR 375,000). Documentation: Applications must include a global budget in PLN, a detailed Polish budget, and applicable exchange rates.

Additional Requirements

Producer’s Contribution: The producer must contribute at least 5% of the project’s total cost.

Artistic Contribution:

• For feature films, a Polish head of department is required.
• For animations, production must take place in Poland, involving a Polish artist.
• For documentaries, Polish archives, themes, or artists should be featured.
• Expenditure Requirement: At least 80% of the rebate funds must be spent in Poland.

Country Overview

A country located in Central Europe, boasts a rich history, cultural heritage, and diverse geography. The main cities, including Gdańsk, Szczecin, Bydgoszcz, Lublin, and Białystok, showcase the country’s urban charm.

Bordering Countries:

• Germany (west)
• Czech Republic (southwest)
• Slovakia (south)
• Ukraine (east)
• Belarus (northeast)
• Lithuania (north)
• Russia (Kaliningrad Oblast, northwest)

Language and Currency

The official language spoken in this region is Polish, and the local currency is the Polish Zloty (PLN).

Geography and Climate

This region shares borders with several countries, including Germany to the west, the Czech Republic and Slovakia to the south, Ukraine and Belarus to the east, and Lithuania and the Russian province of Kaliningrad Oblast to the northeast. The country’s moderate climate features a mix of maritime and continental elements, resulting in unpredictable weather patterns. Summers can be hot or rainy, while winters are typically cold with temperatures below freezing and varying snowfall.

Visa Requirements

To enter Poland, citizens of certain countries must meet specific requirements. A D-type national visa allows for stays exceeding 90 days, but not longer than one year. This visa is essential for foreign nationals who plan to reside in Poland for an extended period.

Eligibility and Documents

Citizens of non-EU countries must possess one of the following documents:

• A uniform short-stay Schengen visa (C)
• A Polish long-stay national visa (D)
• A Polish residence permit
• A residence permit or national long-stay visa issued by another Schengen state

Application Process

Before submitting a visa application, registration is required at a Polish Consular Office. The following documents are necessary:

• A valid travel document (passport)
• Completed and signed visa application
• Recent photograph
• Proof of visa payment
• Medical travel insurance with coverage of at least EUR 30,000

Processing Time and Fees

The processing time for visa applications typically takes 30 days, but can range from 15 to 60 days in some cases. The application fee is 90 €.

Additional Information

As part of the EU’s Taxation and Customs Union, does not impose duty on goods brought in from within the EU. The country also honours ATA Carnets, simplifying the transportation of film equipment across borders.

Apply for Visa

Start your application process here: https://secure.e-konsulat.gov.pl/

International Crew Accreditation for Poland

General Accreditation Requirements

Poland welcomes international film crews with a streamlined accreditation process. Notably, work permits are not required for foreign crew members, making it easier to bring your team to Poland.

Film Permit Requirements for Poland

The Polish Film Commission is the official organization responsible for issuing film permits in Poland.

Required Documents for Film Permit Application

To ensure a smooth application process, prepare the following documents:

• Film title, director, and producer names
• Film budget and production insurance details
• Production type (feature film, documentary, TV, commercial, etc.)
• Shooting schedule, including dates and number of filming days
• Scene descriptions and crew composition (names, ID numbers, and vehicle details)
• Equipment list (lights, generators, cranes, dollies, etc.)

Processing Time and Fees

Processing time: 15 days
Fees: Vary depending on the location type

Filming at Private Locations

General Process

When filming at private locations in Poland, the process and associated costs are tailored to the specific needs of your production.

Costs and Timing

Vary depending on factors such as: Location specifics; Production requirements; Shoot duration; Equipment and crew needs

To get an accurate estimate, it’s best to work with Atlas Film Fixers Polish offices.

Drone Permit Requirements

To conduct drone aerial filming in Poland, a permit is mandatory. The drone pilot must hold a special certificate of qualifications, and the flight area must be authorized by a professional company providing aerial filming services. Due to the complexity of the process, it’s recommended to contact a company specializing in drone aerial filming services.

Regulations and Requirements

The pilot must possess an EU License, and the Civil Aviation Authority Customer Service Point and Post Room issues the permits.

For more information on drone laws in Poland, visit UAV Coach https://uavcoach.com/drone-laws-in-poland/

Application Timings and Costs

The permit application process takes approximately 10 working days, and the cost is around 200€.

Equipment Customs Clearance

Accepts ATA Carnets for commercial samples, professional equipment, and exhibitions, streamlining the customs clearance process for international productions.

ATA Carnet Process

Requests for new Carnets must be made at least one month prior to the expiration of the initial Carnet.

Required Documents

To clear customs, you’ll need ATA Carnet documents from the country of origin.

Clearance and Timing

The Polish Chamber of Commerce issues the clearance, and ATA Carnet clearance is typically immediate at the airport, saving you time and hassle.

Costs

The cost of equipment customs clearance in Poland depends on the specific requirements of your production.

Safety and Security

This region is renowned for being a very safe country, making it an ideal location for film and television productions. With low crime rates and a stable political environment, crews can focus on capturing stunning footage without worrying about their safety.

Security Measures

While Poland is a safe country, it’s always important to take standard security precautions to ensure a smooth and successful production. However, no specific or extraordinary security measures are typically required.

This comprehensive rebate program provides meaningful financial support, making Poland an attractive option for filmmakers worldwide. With diverse locations, skilled crews, and a rich cultural backdrop, Poland offers an exceptional setting for a variety of film projects. Contact Atlas Film Fixers to learn how we can help you navigate the Polish rebate process and optimize your production’s budget.