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.

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.

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 logistics while 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.