Sweden
From “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” to “Melancholia”, “The American” and “Dancer in The Dark”, a number of international films have been shot in Sweden over recent years.
Filming in Sweden
This picturesque and inviting Scandinavian nation has deep-seeded history, along with many beautiful skylines and scenic treasures. From forests to glaciers, bustling cosmopolitan cities to rustic villages, there is plenty on offer to filmmakers in Sweden – including, of course, the infamous Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). The best time for viewing these from Sweden is in the winter, between September and March.
The Malmo Festival and Midsommarafton events take place in the summer, while December sees the world-famous Nobel Prize Awards take place. Events such as these along with public holidays can impact both the availability and cost of filming permits in Sweden, but that’s where we can help.
At NEEDaFIXER, we can assist with anything from securing filming permits to scouting locations, providing advice on when to shoot, budgeting, arranging visas and work permits and more besides. Our roster of experienced international film fixers will help you with a number of logistics and organizational tasks that can maximise cost and time efficiency whilst helping you reach your goals on the shoot.
Fixers in Sweden
At NEEDaFIXER, we have a global talent pool from which we can connect with either a film or TV fixer in Sweden as needed.
From handling small tasks as they arise to providing ongoing support in the planning, production and post-production stages of a shoot, we are well equipped to handle a diverse range of requirements:
- Costs and financing. Sweden is an expensive country, and therefore not an ideal destination for a production company on a strict budget. Stockholm in particular can be expensive, but it’s here that having a local fixer can provide support and help you maximise your cost efficiency.
- Film permits. The availability of a permit will depend on a number of factors, such as whether there need to be any street or venue closures, aerial filming, or police assistance. In these scenarios, permits can be obtained within four weeks, while permission for smaller shoots can be acquired in as little as five days.
- Crews and talent sourcing. Non-union talent is available, and we are able to recommend a number of different casting agencies along with directors, photographers and other crew as needed.
- Translation. Fluent English is spoken throughout Sweden, but should a translation be desired, we can arrange a local TV or film fixer to assist with this.
- Travel. Sweden is well serviced by international and domestic air travel, and there is an extensive rail network as well. Roads are well maintained and allow connectivity throughout the many islands.
- As hotel accommodation can run on the expensive side in Sweden (as is often the case with filming in Scandinavia), we recommend self-catering or serviced apartments or houses for the duration of your stay. Organising these for your cast and crew is something our fixers would be more than happy to help with.
- Crew and cast members with western passports can enter Sweden and stay for up to 90 days without a visa, and work permits are not a requirement for filming here.
- Set construction and studio sourcing. It can be expensive to build sets in Sweden, but there are a number of studios already in existence with a number of different facilities available, so it’s not always necessary.
- Tax Incentives and credits. There are currently no tax credits available to foreign production companies making films in Sweden.
- Safety and travel advisories. When it comes to filming in Scandinavia in general, the region is very safe, and Sweden is no exception.
To learn more about and other production services available, click to discover more.
Popular Swedish Filming Locations
What can we say about Sweden? It’s a small country – but perfect for a range of productions. Whether you’re working on a small or large project, film and TV shows will come to life with the majestic scenery.
As one of the most advanced countries in Europe, Sweden is incredibly easy for film projects, because it’s so organised. Everything from applying for permits to renting equipment is a dream – so you won’t need to worry about government restrictions.
Stockholm is home to waterways, lakes, beautifully manicured gardens, varied architecture and more. Some of the most popular shoot locations in the country include:
Stockholm
Built on 14 islands, the nation’s capital is home to waterways and roads, royal palaces, and excellent post-production facilities. Like most capital cities, it has a cosmopolitan feel, and Stockholm is perfect if you want to capture the modern backdrop in every scene.
Gothenburg
Sweden’s second-largest city, Gothenburg is an eclectic mix of old and new and is home to the largest port of the Nordic countries. Most people regard it as Sweden’s second city because it has a cosmopolitan feel with a mixture of traditional culture.
If you’re looking for a charming city that can easily adapt itself to both modern and traditional productions, your search is over.
Malmö
Bustling Malmo may be known for its metropolitan region, but the city is actually quite historic, with parts of it dating back to the 1300s. Old world charm lives here, and our producers can bring your story to life.
Lapland
For snowy winter scenes, Lapland provides some of the country’s most incredible scenery, as well as clear glimpses of the Northern Lights.
Whether you are shooting a documentary, feature film, short or any other film, our team is able to help. Our fixers have worked on productions that vary in size, and local knowledge of the islands can help you discover many popular sites such as:
- Foteviken (Viking re-enactment village)
- Lapland mountain
- Bohuslän Coast
- Drottningholm Palace
- Kalmar Castle
- Gotland Island
If you need additional help with sourcing the right place to shoot your project, a dedicated location scout can be arranged to help with your needs.
When it comes to filming in Scandinavia, Sweden offers a truly breathtaking experience. To find out more about how our film or TV fixer can help you make the most out of it, get in touch with NEEDaFIXER now.
Frequently Asked Questions
How easy is it to get permits?
You’ll need a filming permit if your production is set in Stockholm – but only if it’s a large scale story that requires the use of heavy equipment. You will, however, need to send the Sweden Film Commission notice.
Do I need a visa or work permit?
EU citizens don’t need a work permit to film in Sweden, but if you’re from a different continent, the process is still relatively simple.
Can I hire equipment once there?
Yes, you can hire a selection of media equipment and our fixers will help you to source the right cameras, microphones and lighting equipment.
What is the climate like?
Sweden has warm, mild summers and cold winters – which makes it a perfect location if you want a snowy backdrop.
Testimonials
’You guys were amazing! You delivered perfectly at short notice in a foreign country, introduced us to a lovely crew in both and really went the extra mile in making sure it was all taken care of and confirmed properly. I can’t thank you enough and look forward to working together again.’
Davo McConville
Free Lance Producer - Black Dog / RSA’I have met NEEDaFIXER in Greece! It was LOVE from the first sight. Since then, I cannot imagine my production without them! They are like Family! Always helpful. Always happy. Always with loads of energy… & always with PASSION for what they do!’
Katarzyna Chmielarz
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