Tax Incentives & Grants - Colombia

Colombia has become one of the leading destinations for international film and television productions in Latin America, offering robust financial incentives, diverse filming locations, and strong government support. Managed by the Colombian Film Commission under Proimágenes Colombia, these incentives aim to attract international projects while boosting the local film industry.

Colombia’s 40% cash rebate and 35% tax credit (CINA) make it one of the most attractive destinations for filmmakers in Latin America. Combined with its diverse landscapes, skilled workforce, and government support, Colombia offers both financial and creative opportunities for international productions. For filmmakers seeking cost-effective, high-quality production environments, Colombia is a top contender.

  • Colombia provides two primary financial incentives for film and television productions:

    Colombian Film Fund (FFC) - Cash Rebate

    The Colombian Film Fund (Fondo Fílmico Colombia - FFC) offers direct cash rebates to incentivize international productions.

    • Rebate Rates:

      • 40% Cash Rebate: For film services including local labor, cast, and crew costs.

      • 20% Cash Rebate: For expenses related to logistics, including accommodation, transportation, and catering.

    • Eligibility:

      • Productions must spend a minimum of COP 1,800 million (~USD 500,000) in Colombia.

      • Applies to feature films, television series, documentaries, and animation projects.

      • International projects must partner with a Colombian production company.

    • Qualifying Expenses:

      • Local crew wages and talent fees.

      • Set construction, equipment rentals, and studio fees.

      • Logistics such as accommodation, ground transportation, and meals.

    • Application Process:

      • Submit an application to Proimágenes Colombia with a detailed budget and production schedule.

      • Approval is subject to passing a Cultural Test that evaluates the project's economic and cultural contributions to Colombia.

      • Rebates are disbursed after completion and auditing of the project.

    • Colombian Audiovisual Investment Certificate (CINA) - Tax Credit

    The CINA (Certificado de Inversión Audiovisual) provides a transferable tax credit for productions that spend in Colombia.

    • Tax Credit Rate:

      • 35% of Qualifying Production Expenditures (QPE) incurred in Colombia.

      • The certificate is transferable, allowing production companies to sell it to Colombian taxpayers.

    • Eligibility:

      • No minimum spend requirement, making this incentive accessible to a wider range of productions.

      • Applies to international and domestic feature films, TV series, commercials, documentaries, and digital media projects.

    • Qualifying Expenses:

      • Film services such as post-production, VFX, animation, and sound design.

      • Production-related logistics and local crew costs.

    • Process:

      • Applications are submitted through Proimágenes Colombia.

      • After approval, the tax credit is issued upon completion and verification of expenses.

  • Steps to Apply for the Colombian Film Fund (FFC) Rebate:

    1. Pre-Approval:

      • Submit an application detailing production plans, budget, and compliance with the Cultural Test.

    2. Production Phase:

      • Collaborate with a local Colombian production partner for seamless integration of services.

    3. Final Submission:

      • Provide audited accounts and supporting documentation of expenditures.

    4. Rebate Disbursement:

      • Funds are typically disbursed within 90 days of final approval.

    Steps to Apply for the CINA Tax Credit:

    1. Registration:

      • Register the project with Proimágenes Colombia and submit required documentation.

    2. Expense Verification:

      • Provide proof of expenditures eligible for the tax credit.

    3. Issuance:

      • Receive the CINA certificate, which can be used directly or sold to Colombian taxpayers.