Switzerland

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.

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.

Visa Application Link

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/capetown https://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.