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

Film Rebate Overview

Slovenia is an attractive destination for international film and TV productions, offering stunning landscapes, historic architecture, and a well-developed production infrastructure. The country provides a cash rebate of up to 25% on qualified expenses for feature films, TV dramas, documentaries, and animation projects.

With a diverse range of locations—from the dramatic Julian Alps to medieval towns and picturesque lakes—Slovenia can double for various European settings. The country has a skilled local crew base, modern production facilities, and competitive costs compared to other European film hubs.

Atlas Film Fixers assists foreign producers in accessing Slovenia’s film incentives, handling local permits, and optimizing productions to maximize savings. Contact us to streamline your next shoot in Slovenia.

Qualified Production Expenditures (QPEs) in Slovenia

To qualify for Slovenia’s 25% cash rebate, productions must incur eligible expenses within the country. Qualified Production Expenditures (QPEs) typically include:

• Local Crew & Talent – Salaries, wages, and social security contributions for Slovenian cast and crew.
• Production & Post-Production Services – Local production management, equipment rentals, set construction, VFX, and editing.
• Location Costs – Fees for filming permits, location rentals, and associated logistical expenses.
• Travel & Accommodation – Expenses for cast and crew staying in Slovenia, including hotels and local transport.
• Catering & On-Set Services – Meals, security, and other necessary services during production.

Atlas Film Fixers ensures that all QPEs meet eligibility requirements, maximizing your rebate benefits. Contact us for expert guidance on filming in Slovenia.

Country Overview

Popular Filming Locations in Slovenia

• Ljubljana: The capital, buzzing with energy, where sleek modern design meets charming old-world architecture.
• Maribor: A delightful city wrapped in vineyards and brimming with cultural treasures, perfect for a cinematic backdrop.
• Celje: A hidden gem with medieval castles perched on hills, offering a perfect blend of history and stunning vistas.
• Kranj: A picturesque town where urban buzz meets tranquil nature, ideal for capturing both modern life and serene landscapes.

Languages:

Slovene (official)

Currency:

Euro (EUR)

Weather & Climate

Slovenia offers four distinct seasons, each providing a unique backdrop for filming:

• Winter: Cold and snowy, particularly in the mountainous regions, perfect for winter scenes or a picturesque, frosty setting.
• Spring: Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, ideal for capturing fresh, vibrant nature.
• Summer: Warm, with average highs around 25°C (77°F), great for outdoor shoots and sunny, vibrant scenes.
• Autumn: Comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage, offering rich, golden hues for atmospheric shots.

Visa Requirements:

When planning your film production in Slovenia, understanding visa requirements is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide to help you prepare:

General Visa Information

Check if you need a visa for Slovenia by visiting the Slovenian Consulate website. For film crew-specific visa details, refer to the Slovenian Government Visa Application Form.

Required Documents for Application

To apply for a film crew visa, ensure you have the following:

• A valid passport (minimum 3 months beyond intended stay).
• A completed visa application form (available online).
• A recent passport-sized photo.
• Proof of payment for the visa fee (€80-€120).
• Travel health insurance.
• Proof of sufficient funds (at least €40 per day).
• Invitation letter from a Slovenian partner or production company.
• Proof of film production (e.g., script, synopsis, shooting schedule).
• Letter of intent from the production company.
• A crew list including names, nationalities, and roles.
• A detailed equipment list.

Processing Time

Visa applications typically take 15-30 days to process.

Costs

Visa expenses range from €200-€500, depending on your specific requirements. Atlas Film Fixers can guide you through every step of the visa process, ensuring a hassle-free experience so you can focus on your production.

International Crew Accreditation:

Film crews from abroad must register with the Slovenian Film Centre (SFC) and obtain accreditation from the Slovenian Association of Film and Television Producers (SAFTP).

Required Documentation:

• Completed application form
• Proof of professional qualifications
• Previous film/TV production experience
• Passport-sized photo
• Payment receipt for accreditation fees

Registration Timeline:

• Online registration: 1-2 days
• Full approval: 5-10 working days

Cost:

€100-€200

General Film Permit:

To film in Slovenia, you’ll need a general film permit issued by the Slovenian Film Centre (SFC). Required documents include:

Required Documentation:

To obtain a filming permit in Slovenia, you’ll need to provide a completed permit application form, along with a script and synopsis, shooting schedule, location and crew list, equipment list, proof of liability insurance, and proof of payment for the permit fee. These documents ensure that all aspects of your production comply with local regulations.

Permit Processing Time:

5-10 working days

Cost:

€500-€2,000

Drone Permit:

If you plan to film with drones, you’ll need a permit from the Slovenian Civil Aviation Agency (CAA).

Drone Regulations:

• Weight: Less than 25 kg
• Max altitude: 120m
• Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)
• No-fly zones: airports, national parks, protected areas

Required Documentation:

• Completed application form
• Drone registration certificate
• Pilot training and licensing documents
• Safety risk assessment report
• Insurance documents
• Flight plan and coordinates

Cost:

€100-€500

Processing Time:

10-30 working days

Equipment Customs Clearance:

Slovenia is a Carnet country, so you can use an ATA Carnet to bring filming equipment in and out of the country easily.

Required Documentation:

• ATA Carnet document
• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Certificate of origin
• Customs declaration (if required)

Customs Clearance Time:

3-5 working days

Cost:

€100-€300

Film Rebates and Tax Incentives:

Slovenia currently does not offer a film rebate for reality TV, but there are potential opportunities for traditional scripted productions.

Safety & Security

Slovenia is generally considered a safe country with low crime rates and a stable political environment. For extra peace of mind, you can hire local or international security providers.

Start Filming in Slovenia with Atlas Film Fixers!

With expert assistance from Atlas, you can navigate Slovenia’s filming regulations and make your production process seamless. From obtaining permits and visas to location scouting and security, we’re here to support you every step of the way. To get a deeper insight into filming in Slovenia and to explore the stunning locations it has to offer, visit our YouTube channel.

For expert guidance and seamless logistics, contact Atlas Film Fixers to ensure your production benefits from the unique offerings of this spectacular location while adhering to local regulations and maximizing efficiency.