Filming in Hungary: The 30% Film Tax Rebate Explained
A reliable incentive for international productions
Mar 20, 2026
The Hungarian film incentive combines a 30% rebate with a well-established, government-backed system designed to ensure secure and predictable support for productions.
Hungary has become one of Europe’s leading production hubs thanks to its 30% film tax rebate and highly experienced production infrastructure.
International film and television productions that shoot in Hungary can receive a 30% cash rebate on eligible production costs spent in the country. The incentive is part of the Hungarian film support programme approved by the European Commission and administered by the National Film Institute Hungary (NFI).
With the programme extended until 2030, Hungary offers one of the most stable and predictable film incentives in Europe.
For producers planning a project in Central Europe, understanding how the Hungary film tax rebate system works is the first step.
What Is the Hungary Film Tax Rebate?
The Hungarian film incentive provides a 30% rebate on qualifying Hungarian production spend.
Eligible expenses typically include:
local crew and cast
studio and stage rental
equipment hire
locations and permits
accommodation and travel
post-production services
The rebate is provided as a post-financing cash refund, meaning productions receive the rebate after their eligible spending has been audited and approved.
The program applies to feature films, TV productions, streaming series, animation and documentaries.
How the 37.5% Effective Rebate Works
One of the strengths of the Hungarian incentive is its flexibility.
Up to 25% of the eligible production budget may consist of non-Hungarian expenses, which can still be included in the rebate calculation.
This allows productions to reach an effective rebate of up to 37.5% relative to the Hungarian spend, depending on the structure of the production budget.
Example:
A Stable Incentive System Secured Until 2030
Hungary’s film incentive system has been operating successfully for more than two decades.
In 2024 the European Commission approved the extension of the program until the end of 2030, ensuring long-term stability for international productions.
The system is supported through a state-backed Collection Account managed by the National Film Institute, which guarantees the availability and secure distribution of the rebate funds.
For 2026, the Hungarian government has allocated HUF 70 billion to the incentive scheme.
To maintain predictability in the system, the government has also introduced registration caps for productions applying for the rebate.
Key Requirement for Productions
Productions applying for the Hungarian film incentive must begin principal photography within six months after receiving registration approval.
This rule ensures that projects move into production in a timely manner and that incentive funds remain available for active productions.
Why Productions Choose Hungary
While the tax rebate is a major factor, Hungary offers a much broader production ecosystem.
International productions benefit from:
highly experienced English-speaking crews
large-scale sound stages and studios
versatile locations doubling for cities around the world
competitive production costs
a central European location with strong logistics
These advantages have made Budapest one of Europe’s busiest filming cities, hosting productions from major Hollywood studios and global streaming platforms.
How to Apply for the Hungarian Film Incentive
The incentive is accessed through a registered Hungarian production company.
Productions must:
1. Apply for registration with the Hungarian film authorities
2. Pass the required cultural test
3. Submit the production budget and documentation
4. Spend the eligible production costs in Hungary
Once the production has completed and costs have been audited, the 30% rebate is paid through the Collection Account system.
Filming in Hungary with Abroad Films
Navigating the Hungarian film incentive system requires local expertise and careful production planning.
At Abroad Films, we support international productions at every stage of the process, including:
incentive planning and budgeting
location scouting across Hungary
assembling local crews
production logistics and permitting
full service production support
If you are planning a film or TV production in Hungary, our team can help you make the most of the country’s incentive system and production infrastructure.
FAQ: Hungary Film Tax Rebate
How much is the film tax rebate in Hungary?
Hungary offers a 30% rebate on eligible production expenses spent in the country. By including a portion of non-Hungarian costs, productions may achieve an effective rebate of up to 37.5% relative to Hungarian spend.
Is the Hungary film incentive guaranteed?
Yes. The system is approved by the European Commission and administered through a state-managed Collection Account, which guarantees the payment of the rebate.
How long will the Hungarian film tax rebate remain available?
The programme has been officially extended until the end of 2030, providing long-term predictability for international productions.
Can international productions access the Hungary film incentive?
Yes. The rebate is available to both domestic and international productions, provided they work with a registered Hungarian production company.