Hungary Extends 30% Tax Rebate for Film & TV Productions to 2030
zita kisgergely
In a move that’s been splashed all over the trade news sites, Hungary announced the extension of its tax rebate system. This is the 30% incentive which contributed to the country becoming the second most popular filming destination for international productions in Europe after London.
The extension of the rebate, which is now set to remain in place until 2030, was recently announced by Hungarian film commissioner Csaba Kael in Los Angeles. It will no doubt help maintain the country’s popularity as a filming destination, with an average of around 100 international productions filmed in Hungary annually. These projects range from Hollywood blockbusters (Dune: Part Two and Alien: Romulus) to independent films and TV series such as The Brutalist, Maria, NCIS, FBI: International, and The Day of the Jackal.
Originally introduced in 2004, the incentive program offers a cash rebate on production costs spent in the country. Additionally, thanks to a skilled local workforce and production infrastructure that is continually expanding to meet demand, Hungary’s annual production spend has sky-rocketed in the last five years. It reached a record $910 million in 2023—almost four times its 2018 spend.
During the two decades that the rebate has been in place, several Hungarian-shot films have gone on to become Oscar and BAFTA nominees. Hungarians behind the scenes on these productions have also been recognized for their excellence; Zsuzsanna Sipos received an Oscar and BAFTA for best production design for Dune, while Zsuzsa Mihalek received an Oscar and BAFTA for best production design for Poor Things and Tinker, Tailer, Soldier, Spy respectively.
To celebrate Hungary’s contributions to the global film industry, the first Made in Hungary event was held in Los Angeles October 25th - 27th, featuring Hungarian films and honouring international productions shot in Hungary. The Hungarian Film Institute bestowed the inaugural Best International Production Filmed in Hungary Award to Poor Things as part of the festivities.
Via Imdb.
The renewed tax incentive signals the country’s commitment and ambition to remaining a leading choice for international productions.
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Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.
Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.