Filming in Portugal

Finding a fixer
in Portugal

As a foreign company filming in Portugal, you will only benefit from having a local production support team on your side. Navigating the permit process, understanding the language and customs, all of this can get in the way of doing what you came here to do – that is, make movie magic!

However, with us as your specialist fixer in Portugal, none of this will be a problem. Our aim is to ensure that everything to do with your production runs smoothly.

Visa for Portugal

For international filmmakers, understanding visa requirements is essential. Citizens from the EU, EEA, and several other countries can enter Portugal without a visa for short stays. However, for longer projects, a work visa may be required. By partnering with Portugal Fixer, you can be confident that the visa process goes as planned! We’ll streamline what needs to be done, ensuring that all necessary documentation is prepared correctly. That allows you to focus on your production without bureaucratic hassles.

Film Permits Portugal

Filming in Portugal requires obtaining various film permits, depending on the location and type of shoot. Public spaces, historical sites, and protected areas often need special permissions. Engaging us as your fixer in Portugal can be invaluable, as we can navigate the local regulations, liaise with authorities, and secure the necessary permits efficiently. Our local expertise and experience of working on films in this country, will ensure that your production stays on schedule and is compliant with Portuguese laws.

Special equipment
renting info

If you’re thinking of shipping your film kit from your native country – think again. All that does is eat into your budget. Instead rely on our local film fixer. They can organise competitively-priced, world-leading film rental equipment including everything from lighting rigs to full camera packs and a digital imaging, or DIT, station. Our fixers have long-standing relationships with local camera rental companies across Portugal. Just let us know your needs – we won’t let you down.

Cultural facts

Understanding cultural nuances is crucial. Portuguese people value politeness and formal greetings. Additionally, respect for local traditions and holidays can foster goodwill. Portugal is a predominantly Catholic country, and religion plays an important role in daily life, so be respectful. You may need to organise film permits in Portugal, if wanting to film a Catholic procession, but your fixer in Portugal can provide insights into these cultural aspects and help with the permits or access if necessary.

Weather when filming in Portugal

Portugal’s climate can be surprisingly varied depending on where in the country you are. However, generally-speaking, summers are hot and dry, especially in the south, while winters can be mild and wet, particularly in the north. Spring and autumn are ideal for shooting in Portugal, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. Feel free to consult with us and we can help you choose the best time and locations for your shoot, ensuring optimal weather conditions for your film or video project.

Tax rebate in Portugal

Filming in Portugal comes with attractive financial incentives. In early 2024, the film board announced a 30% cash refund incentive programme to attract higher-budget film and TV productions to the country. This is an additional incentive that works alongside the Tourism and Cinema Support Fund (FATC), which offers filmmakers a 25% – 30% rebate. These incentives cannot be combined, but if you work with a fixer in Portugal they can guide you towards the best benefit for your project and help you with the application process.