Introduction
Switzerland, with its breathtaking mountains, serene lakes, and vibrant cities, offers a diverse range of landscapes and settings for filmmakers. From the picturesque Alps to the modern architecture of cities like Zurich and Geneva, Switzerland provides a unique and film-friendly environment.
Contact us today to find out how we can make your Switzerland production a reality !
Overview
Switzerland offers an exceptional backdrop for film and TV productions, with its iconic alpine landscapes, picturesque villages, and modern urban settings. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the country is ideal for genres ranging from action and adventure to romance and drama.
Switzerland’s central European location ensures excellent connectivity, making it convenient for international crews. The country boasts skilled local talent, experienced production crews, and cutting-edge facilities. Its reputation for efficiency extends to film permits, which are straightforward and typically processed swiftly.
While Switzerland doesn’t offer a national film incentive program, some cantonal initiatives and partnerships with local tourism boards can provide support for select projects. Producers often pair Swiss shoots with nearby countries offering incentives, optimizing budgets while capturing Switzerland’s unique charm.
For productions seeking a blend of natural splendour and logistical ease, Switzerland is an outstanding choice.
Main Cities:
Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern (capital), and Lucerne
Bordering Countries:
Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein
Local Languages:
German, French, Italian, and Romansh
Local Currency:
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Weather and Seasons
Switzerland has a temperate climate, with cold winters and warm summers. It’s a year-round filming destination, with each season offering unique landscapes and opportunities.
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Snow-covered landscapes and ski resorts
- Spring (Mar-May): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Warm weather and long days
- Autumn (Sep-Nov): Comfortable temperatures and picturesque foliage
Visa Requirements
General Requirement:
Check if you need a visa to enter Switzerland. Depending on your nationality, you might be eligible for a visa-free stay.
Film Crew Members:
Typically require a short-stay visa (Schengen visa) or a national visa, depending on the duration and purpose of their stay.
Online Applications:
https://www.eda.admin.ch/capetownhttps://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/south-africa/en/home/representations/embassy.html
Required Documents:
Valid passport, completed application form, recent passport photos, proof of payment, invitation letter, proof of professional qualifications, health insurance, and proof of sufficient funds.
Timing:
2 weeks (15 days)
Cost:
EUR 80
Film Crew
Local Crew:
Switzerland has a well-established film industry, with a network of professional service providers, including production companies, equipment rental firms, and post-production facilities.
Crew Languages:
English is widely spoken, but local crew members may also speak German, French, Italian, or Romansh.
Talent Pool:
Switzerland has a diverse talent pool, with a range of actors, extras, and stunt performers available for hire.
Crew Rates:
Crew rates vary depending on experience, location, and type of production. Expect to pay around CHF 500-1,000 per day for a local crew member.
International Crew Accreditation
General Accreditation Requirements:
Determine if you need a short-stay visa (Schengen visa) or a national visa, depending on the duration and purpose of your stay.
Required Documents:
Valid passport, completed application form, recent passport photos, proof of payment, letter of introduction, film crew list, proof of professional qualifications, production schedule, and equipment list.
Timing:
2 weeks (15 days)
Cost:
EUR 46 – EUR 92 per crew member
General Film Permit
Issuing Organisation:
The Swiss Film Commission
Timing:
1-3 weeks
Required Documents:
Application form, project description, production schedule, location plan, and filming itinerary
Cost:
EUR 176 – EUR 880
Private Locations
General Process:
Location scouting, owner permission, and location contract
Cost:
Fixer to negotiate location fee: Agree on a location fee with the owner.
Film Gear and Equipment
Local Equipment Rental:
Switzerland has a range of equipment rental companies, offering a variety of film gear, including cameras, lighting, grip, and sound equipment.
Equipment Importation:
Equipment can be imported temporarily for filming purposes, but customs regulations and duties may apply.
Drone Permit
Drone Regulations:
Registration requirement, weight classes, flight altitude limits, prohibited zones, permission requirements, pilot qualifications, insurance requirements, right to privacy, and data protection.
Drone Importation Regulations:
Customs declaration, value-added tax (VAT), import permit, compliance with EU regulations, restrictions on certain drone types, declaration of conformity, payment of customs duties, and registration with the Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA).
Issuing Organisation:
Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA)
Required Documents:
Application form, drone details, pilot information, commercial invoice, customs declaration, bill of lading or air waybill
Timing:
5-10 days
Cost:
Registration for a drone permit is currently free
Equipment Customs Clearance
Carnet Country:
Yes, Switzerland is a Carnet country
General Process for Carnet Country:
Obtain a Carnet, list goods on the Carnet, present Carnet to customs upon arrival, use goods temporarily, re-export goods before Carnet expiration, and present Carnet to customs upon departure
Required Documents:
Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Film Permit, Location Agreement, Equipment List
Issuing Organisation:
Swiss Federal Customs Administration (FCA)
Timing:
2-5 working days
Cost:
EURO 160
Film Rebates and Tax Incentives
Switzerland offers film incentives, but they are limited to supporting the production of fictional and documentary films, as well as animated films. Reality TV shows are not explicitly mentioned as eligible for these incentives.
Safety and Security
General In-Country Overview:
Switzerland is a popular destination for international film productions, offering a unique combination of stunning landscapes, modern infrastructure, and favourable business conditions.
Type of Security Required:
Equipment insurance, on-set security personnel, and location scouting.
