A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Spain
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Spain: What You Need to Know
Film permits in Spain are granted by the municipal or regional offices. If your production is small, you likely won’t need a permit. However, any large production, which involves disruption to the general area must apply. Spain has a film commission, but it does not issue general permits. Instead, it will put you in touch with the right regional office. Of course, if you’re working with a fixer like Fixer Spain, we can do this for you, as we know the lay of the land.
Most permits take around 20 days to come through, and the price will change depending on where your location is. For example, if you aim to shoot in Granada or Alhambra, the cost will be around €800.
Timing Your Spanish Film Production around the Weather
Spain is a fantastic filming destination, as along with its diverse landscapes you have so many different types of weather. There are over 3,000 hours of annual sunshine, particularly in the south and Mediterranean regions. That said, Madrid and the high mountain range surrounding it also have a continental climate with consistent heat throughout the summer months and warm, balmy days in late spring and early autumn.
Northern Spain, such as Galicia, has a cooler climate with rain to be expected across all seasons. That’s the reason it’s known as Spain’s “green country”, of course!
Overall, though, no matter where you film in Spain, production crews will experience reliable natural lighting, which in itself makes it perfect for year-round outdoor filming.
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
Spain has a lot of professional rental companies where you’ll find high-end cameras, lighting rigs, sound gear and everything else you’ll need for a great film kit. Prices are competitive, and there are nearly always deals to get. Because Spain also accepts ATA carnets, you can also consider travelling with your equipment.
If you’re in need of a crew with a high proficiency in English, Spain will not let you down. There is an extensive pool of fluent English-speaking film professionals here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
Yes, Spain it is. ATA carnet coverage extends across peninsular Spain, the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, and the North African-located Spanish cities of Ceuta and Melilla.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
Spain is very safe, but it’s always good to be mindful of pickpockets and petty thievery in big tourist cities like Barcelona.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
If your film project takes less than three months, no work visas are necessary.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
A local company is not needed in this instance. If your Spanish shoot will be longer than 3 months, you can ask for the visa directly at the embassy.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes, you must have a permit to fly a drone in Spain. International drone operators can ask for those permits directly from the authorities, which usually takes 3 weeks. The easiest and fastest way is to hire a local drone operator.
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
Spain has a cash rebate/tax exemption for some international productions, and you will need to be working with a local producer registered in the Administrative Registry of Film Companies of the ICAA who is in charge of foreign production.
Certain conditions must be met to be eligible. For example:
The basis for the deduction may not exceed 80% of the total production cost.
Minimum expenditure in Spanish territory must be €1M and €200,000 for animation.
Application of the de minimis rule in certain cases (always consult with a professional about the requirements and limits to the aid granted).
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
Yes, it is usually possible. Discuss with your local film fixer and they will apply on your behalf.
Working with Fixer Spain
Over the years, we have worked with many major media and brand labels to help them get the exact production support they need to make their audiovisual project a success. As the go-to film fixer in the country, our client list includes Germany’s popular Pocher und Papa auf Reisen, Oxford University Press, the BBC, Netflix, Adidas, Unicef and more.
