Georgia

Introduction

Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia is a stunning country with a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the snow-capped mountains of the Caucasus to the scenic coastline of the Black Sea, this region offers a unique and diverse range of filming locations that can double for almost any part of the world.

With its film-friendly government, experienced local crews, and affordable production costs, Georgia has become a popular destination for international filmmakers. The country’s capital, Tbilisi, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a blend of traditional and modern architecture, making it an ideal location for filming.

In recent years, this region has hosted a number of high-profile film and television productions, including “Fast & Furious 9,” “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” and “Warrior.” The country’s film industry is growing rapidly, with a number of local production companies and studios offering a range of services and facilities to support international productions.

Whether you’re looking for a unique location, a film-friendly environment, or a cost-effective solution for your next production, Georgia has everything you need to bring your vision to life. In this guide, we’ll take you through the essentials of filming in Georgia, from visa requirements and crew accreditation to film permits and equipment customs clearance.

Languages Spoken in Georgia

• Georgian (official language)
• Azerbaijani and Armenian (recognized minority languages)
• Russian (widely spoken as a second language)
• English (increasingly popular among younger population and tourism industry)

Many Georgians in the film industry speak English, making it easier for international productions to communicate and work with local crews.

Best Time to Film in Georgia

Georgia has a diverse climate, with different regions experiencing different weather conditions throughout the year. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to film in Georgia:

Spring (March to May)

• Mild temperatures (10-20°C/50-68°F)
• Green landscapes and blooming flowers
• Ideal for filming outdoor scenes, nature documentaries, and dramas

Summer (June to August)

• Warm temperatures (20-30°C/68-86°F)
• Long days with up to 16 hours of daylight
• Suitable for filming outdoor scenes, action movies, and commercials

Autumn (September to November)

• Comfortable temperatures (10-20°C/50-68°F)
• Vibrant fall colors and harvest scenes
• Ideal for filming dramas, romantic comedies, and nature documentaries

Winter (December to February)

• Cold temperatures (-2 to 5°C/28-41°F)
• Snow-covered landscapes and winter sports opportunities
• Suitable for filming winter sports, dramas, and action movies

Regional Variations

• Mountainous regions: Best time to film is during summer and autumn, when the weather is mild and accessible.
• Coastal regions: Best time to film is during spring and summer, when the weather is warm and sunny.
• Urban areas: Best time to film is during spring, summer, and autumn, when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor filming.

Events and Festivals

• Tbilisi International Film Festival (December)
• Batumi International Film Festival (September)
• Tbilisi Jazz Festival (May)
• Kazbegi Mountain Festival (June)

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and weather conditions can vary from year to year. It’s always a good idea to research and scout locations before filming to ensure the best possible conditions for your production.

Currency in Georgia

The official currency of Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL). It is subdivided into 100 tetri.

Exchange Rates

You can exchange your currency for Georgian Lari at banks, currency exchange offices, or hotels. You can also use ATMs to withdraw cash in Georgian Lari.

Here are some approximate exchange rates:

• 1 USD = 3.2-3.5 GEL
• 1 EUR = 3.5-4.0 GEL
• 1 GBP = 4.2-4.7 GEL

Please note that exchange rates may vary depending on the current market rates and the location where you exchange your currency.

Payment Methods

In Georgia, you can use the following payment methods:

• Cash (Georgian Lari)
• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• Debit cards
• Online payment systems (e.g. PayPal)

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Georgia, but it is appreciated for good service. Here are some general guidelines for tipping:

• Restaurants and bars: 5-10% of the total bill
• Taxi drivers: 5-10% of the fare
• Hotel staff: 5-10% of the total bill

Please note that these are general guidelines, and you should adjust the amount according to the quality of service you receive.

Visa Requirements

Georgia offers a relatively straightforward visa process for international film crews. Citizens of most Western countries do not require a visa and can stay in the country for up to 90 days. However, some African countries may require a visa, and even a local invitation may not be sufficient.

Visa Application Link

To apply for a visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Passport
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport-sized photos
• Proof of payment for visa application fee
• Invitation letter
• Proof of accommodation
• Flight itinerary
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of financial means

The visa application process typically takes 5-7 working days, and the cost varies depending on the type of visa required.

Crew Accreditation

To film in Georgia, your crew will need to obtain accreditation. This involves submitting an application, obtaining a visa (if required), registering with the authorities, obtaining tax exemption, and receiving accreditation.

The required documents for accreditation include:

• Valid passport
• ID (identification document)
• Proof of employment
• Health insurance

The accreditation process typically takes 5-10 working days, and the cost is approximately $35-$50 USD per crew member.

Film Permits

Georgia does not require a general filming permit for the country, but some specific areas may require one. The Georgian National Agency of Cultural Heritage Preservation issues permits for filming at cultural heritage sites, while Tbilisi City Hall and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia issue permits for filming that involves police or military presence.

To apply for a film permit, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Application form
• Script and storyboard
• Location list
• Shooting schedule
• Crew list

The permit application process typically takes 2-3 days to 3 weeks, and the cost depends on the location.

Private Locations

When filming at private locations in Georgia, the production team or location manager will need to identify potential locations that fit the script’s requirements. The Fixer plays a crucial role in securing private film locations, as they have local knowledge, connections, and expertise to navigate the process efficiently.

The cost of private film locations in Georgia can vary greatly depending on the specific requirements of the production.

Drone Permit

To operate a drone in Georgia, you will need to obtain a Special Flight Permit (SFP) from the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency (GCAA). You will also need to register your drone with the GCAA and obtain liability insurance.

More information on drone cost: Click here

The required documents for a drone permit include:

• Application form
• Drone registration certificate
• Pilot’s license
• Liability insurance policy
• Flight plan and mission description
• Map of the flight area
• Technical specifications of the drone
• Proof of ownership or rental agreement
• ID and passport copy of the pilot

The drone permit application process typically takes 5-7 working days.

Equipment Customs Clearance

Georgia is not a Carnet country, which means that you will need to obtain a Temporary Import Permit or a Tripartite Agreement to bring your equipment into the country.

The required documents for equipment customs clearance include:

• Customs Declaration
• Equipment List

The customs clearance process typically takes a few hours to several days.

Film Rebates and Tax Incentives

Georgia offers a film rebate program, including for reality TV shows. The “Film in Georgia” program provides a 20-25% cash rebate on qualified expenses, including production costs, post-production costs, travel and accommodation costs for cast and crew, and equipment rental costs.

Safety and Security

Georgia is a popular destination for international film productions, and the country actively welcomes foreign crews. However, it is still important to take necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of your crew and equipment.

Some tips for filming in Georgia include:

• Familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and potential security hotspots.
• Use secure storage facilities for equipment, and consider hiring security personnel to guard equipment during filming.
• Respect local customs and traditions to avoid unintentionally offending locals.
• Hire local security personnel who are familiar with the area and can provide additional support.

In conclusion, filming in Georgia can be a rewarding and cost-effective experience. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and film-friendly government, Georgia is an ideal destination for your next film or television production. Contact Hoodlum Film Fixers if you are interested in filming in this region, we will navigate you through everything.