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

Film Rebate Overview

Uruguay has created a compelling film incentive program designed to attract international film productions. This initiative seeks to foster the growth of the local film industry while positioning the country as an increasingly competitive filming destination. Offering substantial financial support through cash rebates, the program encourages filmmakers to take advantage of Uruguay’s diverse locations, skilled workforce, and favourable economic conditions. Whether working on feature films, documentaries, or commercials, the Uruguay Film Incentive Program provides a significant opportunity for productions of various scales.

Eligibility Requirements

The Uruguay Film Incentive Program applies to a wide range of media types, making it an appealing option for filmmakers in different genres. Qualified productions include:

• Feature Films: Both large-scale and independent projects.
• Short Films: Smaller productions, often with niche audiences.
• Documentaries: Covering diverse subjects, from cultural documentaries to nature films.
• TV Productions: Including scripted series, reality TV, and other formats.
• Commercials: Advertising content targeting both local and international markets.
• Music Videos: Promoting artists while showcasing stunning visuals.
• Animations: Whether feature-length or short-form animated projects.

To be eligible for the cash rebate, productions must meet a minimum local expenditure of USD 300,000. This ensures that the incentive program supports larger projects that contribute significantly to the local economy. In addition, foreign producers are required to hire a local production service company that is registered with Uruguay’s Institute of Cinematography and Audio-visual Arts (ICAU). This requirement ensures that the financial support is directed to the local production sector, fostering collaboration between foreign filmmakers and the country’s professionals.

Incentive Structure

The Uruguay Film Incentive Program offers filmmakers a 25% cash rebate on qualifying production expenses. This includes costs for labour, location fees, equipment rentals, and other production-related expenses. The rebate percentage for commercials is slightly lower at 20%, but it still provides significant financial support for these types of projects.

The program is designed to scale according to the size and nature of the production, with the maximum rebate capped at USD 1,000,000 per project. This cap provides substantial support for larger productions, ensuring that filmmakers can access significant funding to offset the costs of shooting in Uruguay.

The program is also structured to incentivize collaboration with local talent and services. By engaging local crews and production companies, filmmakers can access additional benefits, including more favorable financial terms and easier coordination during the production process.

Application Process

To apply for the Uruguay Film Incentive Program, producers must submit their applications at least three months before the start of principal photography. This ensures that there is enough time to process the application and assess its eligibility for the rebate.

The required documentation for the application includes:

• Project Synopsis: A brief overview of the production, including its storyline and key details.
• Detailed Budget: A breakdown of the production’s expenses, highlighting the qualifying costs that will be reimbursed through the cash rebate.
• Financial Plan: A document outlining how the project is financed, including any foreign investments or partnerships.
• Proof of Local Expenditures: Evidence that the production is spending money within Uruguay on local services, such as hiring crew members, renting equipment, or securing locations.

The evaluation period for applications typically takes about 30 days, allowing producers to receive feedback on their application in a timely manner. This short timeline ensures that projects can proceed with minimal delays, helping to maintain production schedules.

Country Overview

Main Cities:

Montevideo (capital), Salto, Paysandú, Las Piedras, Maldonado, Colonia del Sacramento

Bordering Countries:

Brazil (north, northeast), Argentina (west, southwest)

Local Languages:

The official language of Uruguay is Spanish, and the local currency is the Uruguayan Peso (UYU).

Local Currency:

Uruguayan Peso (UYU)

Climate and Best Time to Film

Uruguay boasts a temperate climate, making it an ideal location for filming year-round. However, the best time to film in Uruguay is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Average temperatures during these periods range from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F), providing perfect conditions for outdoor filming.

Whether you’re looking for urban landscapes, coastal scenery, or rural settings, Uruguay has it all. With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and favourable climate, Uruguay is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by filmmakers.

Visa Requirements

This region is a popular destination for international film productions, offering a unique blend of landscapes, mild climate, and favourable business environment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the requirements and regulations for filming in this region.

General Requirement:

Film crews must apply online through the Uruguayan government’s official immigration website.

Required Documents:

Valid Passport/Visa/ID Card

Timings:

20-30 working days

Cost:

USD 150-200

Visa Application Link 

https://visaguide.world/south-america/uruguay-visa/

International Crew Accreditation

General Accreditation Requirements:

Registration with Uruguayan immigration authorities (Registro de Extranjeros) within 90 days of arrival Registration with the Uruguayan tax authority (AFIP) to obtain a tax ID number

Required Documents:

• Letter of Introduction
• Passport
• ID
• Proof of Health Insurance

Timings:

10-20 working days (approximately 2-4 weeks)

Cost:

Varies depending on factors like production type, crew size, and services required

General Film Permit

Issuing Organizations:

• Ministerio de Educación y Cultura (MEC) – Ministry of Education and Culture
• Instituto Nacional del Cine y el Audiovisual (INCA) – National Film and Audiovisual Institute
• Municipio de Montevideo – Municipality of Montevideo

Timings:

15-30 working days (approximately 3-6 weeks)

Required Documents:

• Production Information
• Script and Storyboard
• Location Information
• Crew and Cast Information
• Equipment and Transportation Information
• Insurance and Liability Information
• Permits and Licenses
• Payment and Fees

Cost:

Cannot be determined until a production brief is received; however, filming in most places is free, but some spots require a location fee

Private Locations

General Process:

Atlas Film Fixers, a local expert, facilitates film productions in Uruguay, including location scouting and arranging access for scouting.

Cost:

Cannot be provided prior to a production synopsis being made available

Drone Permit

Drone Regulations: Drone operations are regulated by the Dirección Nacional de Aviación Civil (DINACIA).

Drone Importation Regulations:

Registration:

Drones weighing over 25 kg must be registered with DINACIA.

Categories:

Drones are divided into three categories: Menores (up to 25 kg), Medianos (25 kg – 260 kg), and Mayores (over 260 kg).

Commercial Use:

Commercial drone operations require a permit, insurance, and registration.

Issuing Organization:

Dirección Nacional de Aviación Civil e Infraestructura Aeronáutica (DINACIA)

Required Documents for Local Drone:

• Application Form
• Company Registration
• Proof of Insurance
• Drone Specifications
• Pilot License
• Pilot Medical Certificate
• Required Documents for Drone Importation:
• Commercial Invoice
• Bill of Lading
• Certificate of Origin
• Drone Specifications
• Declaration of Conformity
• Safety Certificate

Timings:

5-10 business days

Cost:

USD 500-1,250

Equipment Customs Clearance

Is Uruguay a Carnet Country?

Yes, Uruguay is a Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) country.

General Process for Carnet Country:

• Obtain ATA Carnet: Apply for and obtain an ATA Carnet from your local chamber of commerce or logistics company.
• List Goods: List the goods you plan to temporarily import, including their value and description.
• Pay Carnet Fees: Pay the required Carnet fees, which vary depending on the type and value of goods.
• Clear Customs: Present the ATA Carnet to customs authorities upon arrival, who will verify the goods and clear them for temporary importation.
• Re-Export Goods: Re-export the goods within the specified timeframe (usually 12 months) to avoid duties and taxes.

Required Documents:

• ATA Carnet
• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• Customs Declaration Form
• Film Permit
• Insurance Certificate
• Equipment List

Issuing Organization:

Dirección Nacional de Aduanas (DNA), the National Customs Directorate

Timings:

4-8 hours

Cost:

USD 250-1,250

Film Rebates and Tax Incentives

Uruguay offers rebates for film and TV productions, including reality TV shows, through its film incentive program. This program provides a cash rebate of up to 25% of eligible expenses incurred in Uruguay.

Safety and Security

General Overview: Uruguay welcomes film productions, offering unique landscapes, a mild climate, and a favorable business environment.

Security Requirements:

• General Security Measures
• Personal Security
• Equipment Security
• Location-Specific Security

Recommended Security Services:

Consider hiring private security companies specializing in film production security, such as Grupo Security (Uruguay) and Prosegur (Uruguay).

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. Visit our LinkedIn page to connect with us!