The Malta Film Commission provides one of Europe’s most competitive financial incentives for filmmakers, offering cash rebates for eligible expenses incurred in Malta.

Key Features of the Cash Rebate Program

• Base Rebate: Up to 30% of qualifying production expenditure (QPE).

• Additional Uplifts:

  • 5% Bonus:

    • Productions that portray Malta as Malta or significantly integrate Maltese culture, heritage, or historical landmarks into their narrative.

    • Projects that maximize the use of Malta-based facilities, such as Malta Film Studios.

  • Total rebate can reach up to 40%.

• Eligible Productions:

  • Feature films

  • Television series and mini-series

  • Documentaries

  • Animation projects

  • Reality TV shows

• Eligible Expenses:

  • Local labor costs, including Maltese crew wages.

  • Equipment rentals and set construction.

  • Accommodation and transportation within Malta.

  • Location fees, catering, and other local services.

• Rebate Cap:

  • No specific cap has been mentioned, but eligibility is subject to review by the Malta Film Commission.

Application Process

• Initial Application:

  • Submit the application to the Malta Film Commission 30 working days before principal photography or post-production activities commence.

  • Applications must include:

    • A comprehensive budget breakdown.

    • A shooting schedule.

    • A detailed script or treatment.

• Provisional Approval:

  • Provisional approval is typically granted within 30 days after submission.

• Final Submission:

  • Following the completion of filming, audited accounts must be submitted for review.

  • Final payment is disbursed within five months of approval.

Mandatory Contribution:

• A 0.5% contribution of eligible costs must be paid into Malta’s skills development fund, aimed at fostering the local film industry.

Cultural Test

• Productions must pass a Cultural Test to qualify for incentives, which evaluates:

  • The integration of Maltese locations, culture, and history.

  • The involvement of Maltese cast, crew, and services.

  • The cultural or economic benefits brought to Malta.

Qualifying Criteria

• Minimum Spend:

  • Productions must spend a minimum of €100,000 in Malta.

  • Overall production budget must exceed €200,000.

• Local Partner:

  • A Maltese production company or service provider must be engaged to oversee compliance and facilitate applications.

• Extended Rebate Program:

  • The incentive scheme has been extended until 2028, ensuring long-term stability for international productions.

• Increased Budget Allocations:

  • The government has committed additional funding to support a higher volume of productions, emphasizing the importance of the film industry to Malta’s economy.

• Focus on Sustainability:

  • Malta is encouraging eco-friendly film production practices and offering support for productions that adopt sustainable methods.

• Early Engagement:

  • Start the application process as early as possible to ensure compliance with timelines and requirements.

• Partner with Local Experts:

  • Engage a Maltese production company to streamline logistics and facilitate communication with the Malta Film Commission.

• Maximize Incentives:

  • Incorporate Maltese locations and hire local crew to access the highest rebate rates.

• Leverage Local Resources:

  • Utilize Malta’s specialized facilities, such as the water tanks at Malta Film Studios, to reduce production complexity and costs.