The Greek government is revisiting previous attempts to make Greece an epicenter for international TV and film productions. The Ministry of Culture recently announced their desire to create incentives to attract international productions to the country. Incentives would include a tax rebate, expedited bureaucracy and easy access to archaeological sites. The Minister of Culture, Nikos Xydakis, has quickly taken great strides to make this vision a reality.

Greece’s natural beauty and the diversity of its locations, which include a vast coastline, beaches, mountains, forests and much more, paired with the many days of sunshine and long hours of light, make it an ideal filming destination. Its rich history and many iconic ancient sites, further its appeal. Experienced production houses, such as Television Enterprises that has been pursuing this project with the Ministry, offer their many resources, such as location scouting, skilled technicians and state of the art facilities.

In the works is the creation of a commission that will implement and administer the program. Its responsibilities will involve approving applications, assessing cultural criteria and budgets, issuing film permits and overall expediting the bureaucracy of filming in Greece.

As in neighboring countries, qualifying production formats will include feature & short films, documentaries, TV series and animation. Eligible are international producers that team with local producers, who will provide the full range of production services and handle the application process.

Victoria Elmacioglu, Director of Development at Television Enterprises, said: “This is a milestone for the Greek TV & Film industry. With its unique light and landscape, experienced production crews and talent, Greece has the power to become a one stop shop for all filming needs.”

For further information about filming in Greece, or co-production opportunities in the country, contact Victoria Elmacioglu at victoria@tve.gr