Cyprus

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Cyprus, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Cyprus

Capital

Nicosia

Main Cities

Nicosia (largest), Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos

Local Languages

Greek and Turkish

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Climate

Hot semi-arid to Mediterranean

General Visa Requirements:

Film crews can apply online for a visa through the Cyprus Government's "Apply for Visa" portal (Civil Registry and Migration Department)

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Completed and signed visa application form
Recent passport-sized photo
Travel insurance document
Proof of payment for visa application fee

Visa Application Process:

Visa application link

Processing Time:

5–10 days

Cost:

$90–$130

Accreditation Requirements:

Accreditation required from the Cyprus Film Commission
Documentation must include proof of production, script, itinerary, liability insurance, and permits

Required Documents:

Completed Film Commission application form
Proof of film production (contract, letter of intent)
Script and storyboard
Detailed shooting itinerary and schedule
List of crew members and roles
Proof of liability insurance (minimum $550,000 coverage)
Proof of professional qualifications and experience (ID, certificates)

Processing Time:

5–10 days

Cost:

$550–$1,100

Issuing Organization:

Civil Registry and Migration Department

Required Documents:

Completed Film Permit application form
Script and storyboard
Shooting schedule and itinerary
List of crew members and roles
List of equipment and materials
Proof of liability insurance (minimum $550,000 coverage)
Proof of professional qualifications and experience (ID, certificates)

Processing Time:

5–10 days

Cost:

$550–$2,200

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Permission required from property owner
Location fee and liability insurance required
Must comply with Cyprus Film Commission regulations
Submit location agreement and script

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

$550–$5,500 per day

Drone Regulations:

Approval required from Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation (DCA)
Must comply with EU drone regulations
Operator must hold valid EU drone pilot certificate and liability insurance

Drone Importation Regulations:

Temporary Import License required from Cyprus Customs Department
Declare drone value and purpose
Duty-free with Carnet or commercial invoice
May be subject to 19% VAT

Permit Issuance:

Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation (DCA)

Timing:

10–15 days

Cost:

$55–$220

Carnet Status:

Cyprus is a Carnet country

Required Documents:

Passport (valid at least 6 months)
Visa (if required)
Customs Declaration form
Commercial invoice for equipment
Bill of lading or airway bill
Packing list
Carnet (CPD or ATA) if applicable
Certificate of origin

Issuing Organization:

Cyprus Customs Department

Timing:

5–7 days

Cost:

0% to 20% of goods’ value

General Overview:

Cyprus prioritizes crew safety, providing a supportive filming environment

Security Requirements:

Police permits for filming in public areas
Crowd control and traffic management plans
On-set security personnel (optional)
Secure storage for equipment and valuables
Uniformed or plain-clothes security guards (optional)
Ex-military or law enforcement security for high-risk locations

Rebates/Incentives:

Cyprus offers a rebate of up to 45% cash below the line and 25% above the line on eligible in-country expenditures
One of the highest incentives in Europe
Minimum spend: $165,000 for feature films or $90,000 for TV programs (including reality TV)
Productions must meet cultural criteria and promote Cypriot, European, or world culture