A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Czech Republic
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Czech Republic: What You Need to Know
The first question filmmakers ask when planning a shoot in the Czech Republic is, “Are permits needed?” The answer? It depends!
Small film productions with fewer than five crew members and minimal equipment that are working with a local film fixer will generally not need film permits. However, a larger corporate or commercial shoot taking place in public areas will need to apply to local authorities for permission to film, and it must be in the Czech language too.
The capital city, Prague, is a bit more complicated. You may need permits from several different authorities and organisations, particularly if your aim is to film in the historic Old Town. If this increasing workload is giving you a headache just thinking about it, don’t worry! You’ll need to partner with a Czech production support company to handle the permit process for you. If you’re working with a skilled company like Czech Republic Fixer, they’ll walk you through the various permits needed and their associated fees.
Timing Your Czech Republic Film Production around the Weather
No matter what time of year you want to schedule shooting your video in Czechia, you won’t be scuppered by the weather. Though the winter season does see snow arriving and temperatures often falling to below -5 °C (20 °F), overall the weather is manageable in this beautiful Eastern European country.
The Czech Republic has a strong farming industry, so if you’re filming beyond the cities in summer, you’ll be treated to a lot of verdant countryside, and a temperature that’s mainly around a very manageable 26 °C (79°F). Spring and autumn also bring the stunning foliage you would associate with each, along with mild temperatures.
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
It’s often cheaper and less problematic to rent filming equipment locally in the Czech Republic, especially if your shoot is small with a quick turnaround. Prices to hire gear are generally much lower than in Western Europe, and on top of that, you’ll save on airline baggage fees and won’t have the risk of loss and damage either. With bigger productions, especially those that need very specific or up-to-date filming tools, you might find it easier to bring your own equipment. However, it’s important to factor in transport and insurance costs too.
When it comes to finding skilled local film crew, there won’t be an issue. There is a big pool of English speakers in the Czech audiovisual industry. Along with that, cities like Prague and Brno are also University centres, so you’ll have no trouble finding fluent English-speaking students who can act as runners and assistants for a lower fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
Yes.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
It is completely safe.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
No, but we suggest that you get a regular Tourist Schengen visa. This allows you to stay in the country whether on business or holidays for up to 90 days.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
No, unless you are going to be in Czechia longer than 90 days and need a working visa. Then, you must have a local company vouch for you.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes. Czechia is part of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which stipulates that all drones must have permits.
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
Foreign filmmakers can apply for a cash rebate of 25% on monies spent locally on services related to feature films, documentaries and fictional TV series. There is a minimum amount that must be spent, but these amounts are generally higher than in other countries.
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
Yes, you can if you’ve applied for and gotten the appropriate permits.
Working with Fixer Czech Republic
Our team has built up years of experience working with independent and major media and entertainment platforms and businesses from all over the world here in the Czech Republic. Some of our many clients include Mediawan, Channel 5, the BBC, and IFPMA. They come to us as repeat customers or through recommendations, knowing that when it comes to every element of video production, whether it’s pre-production research and location scouting or kit handling, drone operation and all areas of logistics, we have the skillset they need.