Filming in Portugal
Video Production Company Portugal
Film Production Services
Portugal’s position on the Iberian coast has earned it a worldwide reputation for having stunning beaches. Mountain ranges, vineyards and villages also make wonderful settings for on-location shooting.
Filmmakers can expect a well-established film industry, including a film studio in Lisbon and several backlots.
NEEDaFIXER provides production support throughout the country. Our local fixers speak the language, know the filming rules and understand the national culture.
Contact us to learn how our film fixers can help with your next project.
Fixers in Portugal
Portugal has welcomed film crews from across Britain and Europe, and its film industry is well supported by local
facilities, crew, and equipment. Our film fixers can sort out the details for you:
Costs and financing
A cost-efficient film service hub, Portugal is one of the least expensive shooting destinations in Western Europe.
Filming in Portugal typically costs less than productions in Spain. With the help of a local fixer to negotiate deals, you
can get even more for your euros.
Film permits
Applications for filming permits must be submitted through City Hall, with a processing time of approximately one week.
Processing times for filming on beaches can be less. Our film fixers can help you get permission to shoot and make the
filming process a lot easier.
Crews and talent sourcing
Portugal has a small pool of local directors. Many crews have experience with international productions.
Travel
There are a number of international airports throughout Portugal. Crews and equipment can be transported easily to your
destination of choice, thanks to a comprehensive road network.
Translation
Portuguese and English are both widely spoken throughout the country. Local film fixers are available to arrange translation services if needed.
Accommodation
For extended filming in Portugal, our film fixers can help you arrange accommodation in a hotel or private lodgings.
Visas
Portugal is a member of the Schengen Area, so most cast and crews can enter and film for up to 90 days without a visa. A visa may be required depending on your country of origin, but there is no need for work permits. Our local film fixers in Portugal can tell you what’s needed for your shoot.
Set construction and studio sourcing
Portugal’s location within Europe means you can easily source standard and/or specialist equipment. Many film studios are already in place, some of which have motion capture facilities. Set design and construction can also be arranged.
Tax Incentives and credits
Tax incentives are available for feature films and TV programmes filmed in Portugal, but none are currently
in place for commercial productions.
Safety and travel advisories
Portugal is a safe, low-risk filming destination.
Popular Filming Locations
Portugal is home to some of the world’s most beautiful filming locations.
Beaches and clear water provide filmmakers with opportunities to capture great ground and underwater shots. Historic villages work well for period shoots. You can just as easily find modern cityscapes or natural beauty in the form of fields, forests, lakes and rivers.
LISBON
Lisbon is the nation’s capital and serves as the country’s main production centre. This coastal city is as colourful as it is historic. Traditional buildings line streets that lead to the Moorish Castle, Castelo São Jorge. One of the most popular Lisbon films is Lisbon Story (filmed in 1994). More recently Jeremy Irons starred in Night Train to Lisbon – so as you can see it’s a popular and unique location if you want to do something different.
PORTO
Porto is simply stunning, and visitors often marvel at its beauty. The port city is known for its cobbled streets, vineyards, medieval buildings and steep hillsides as well as the surrounding rivers and beach. A blend of old and new presents filmmakers with a range of opportunities.
ALGARVE
Winding roads, white sand beaches, arid landscapes and luxurious villas make the Algarve one of the most varied places to film. Filmmakers and photographers are often drawn to the scenery here and it’s a popular destination for holidaymakers. The popular 90s TV series Sunburn was set in the Algarve, and while many films also take place against the stunning backdrop, it could be the perfect opportunity for you to put your mark on the stunning destination.
MADEIRA
This archipelago lies to the southwest of mainland Portugal. Towering mountains overlook secluded beaches, and there is plenty of wildlife to be discovered. Madeira is ideal for nature documentary makers or photographers, in particular. It’s famous for the Desartas Wolf Spider, which is incredibly rare – so it could be the perfect oppotunity to do something unique.
Other sites of interest include
- Pena Palace
- Azores islands
- Évora
- Belém Tower
- Coimbra
For a small country, Portugal offers so much and one of its major benefits is how its not been spoiled by a constant influx of tourists. The locals are friendly, but manage to retain their rich cultural identity, which means any Portugal film you make will have a unique appeal to your audience.
Our global network gives you access to film professionals who know the local landscape. Our local fixers take the stress out of logisticswhile making the most of your budget.
To find out more about working with a local film fixer in Portugal, click here to contact us today.
Curious about our past projects? Explore our portfolio to see the exceptional film production services we’ve delivered for our clients including feature films. As a trusted video production company in Portugal, we ensure outstanding results for each and every project.
Expert Support Throughout the Post Production Process
Our fixers will be with you every step of the way, and will always work to your specifications. We don’t take over because the project will only be successful if you get to achieve your vision. We’re just here to make it come to life.
Whether you need someone to support you with the post-production process by performing the technical aspects of editing or would prefer our fixers to handle the whole thing themselves, we can help you every step of the way.
To find out more about working with a local film fixer in Portugal, click here to contact us today. Our friendly customer service team can advise you on requirements from the Portugal Film Commission and will discuss your project in more detail.
Working with us means you get the best support to create something incredible.
Testimonials
How easy is it to get permits?
Applications for filming permits must be submitted through City Hall, with a processing time of approximately one week. Processing times for filming on beaches can be less. Our film fixers can help you get permission to shoot and make the filming process a lot easier.
Do I need a visa or work permit?
Portugal is a member of the Schengen Area, so most cast and crews can enter and film for up to 90 days without a visa. A visa may be required depending on your country of origin, but there is no need for work permits. Our local film fixers in Portugal can tell you what’s needed for your shoot.
Can I hire equipment once there?
Portugal’s rental houses offer a great variety of kits, from cameras, lenses, lighting and grip to cranes and other specialised gear. Throughout Lisbon, Porto or the Algarve, you can find suppliers to meet your needs. A wide choice of studios is available to book if you need to shoot indoors. Portugal is an ATA Carnet country, so bringing your own gear from another ATA Carnet country isn’t a problem.
What is the climate like?
The Algarve is the king of sunny weather with over 300 sunny days a year, but even Lisbon has over 250. The north gets chillier and the average rainfall is higher. It can get quite hot in the interior during the summer. On the other hand, Madeira offers mild temperatures all year round, rarely dipping below 18 °C.
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Production In Portugal
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