Introduction
Hoodlum provides top-tier film fixer services with a strong presence in Croatia, offering essential support to international film production teams. With extensive experience, we specialize in location scouting, permit acquisition, and sourcing local crews to ensure your project runs seamlessly from start to finish. Croatia, renowned for its stunning Adriatic coastline, historic cities like Dubrovnik and Split, and diverse natural landscapes, has become a premier destination for filmmakers. Whether you’re producing a commercial, feature film, TV series, or documentary, Hoodlum’s expert team on the ground is your reliable partner for efficient film production logistics and services.
Planning to film in Croatia? Let Hoodlum take care of all the details—from permits to locations—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact Hoodlum today to discover how we can make your Croatia film production a success.
Country Overview
Located in South-eastern Europe, Croatia offers a diverse landscape of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its strategic position at the crossroads of Central and Eastern Europe, Croatia has become a popular destination for international film and TV productions.
Incentives
- 25% cash rebate on qualifying production expenses
- Additional 5% rebate for productions filming in regions with low economic development
- No limits on foreign crew and talent
- No taxes on foreign crew and talent salaries
Bordering Countries:
- Slovenia: to the northwest
- Hungary: to the northeast
- Serbia: to the east
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: to the southeast
- Montenegro: to the southeast
- Italy: across the Adriatic Sea to the west
Croatia has a unique position at the crossroads of Central and Eastern Europe
Main Cities:
- Zagreb: the capital and largest city, located in the north-western part of the country
- Split: the second-largest city, located on the Adriatic coast in the region of Dalmatia
- Dubrovnik: a historic city located on the Adriatic coast in the region of Dalmatia, known for its medieval old town and cultural heritage
- Rijeka: a port city located in the northwest, known for its cultural and economic significance
Local Languages:
The local language of Croatia is Croatian (also known as Hrvatski)
Local Currency:
Euro (EUR)
Climate:
The Adriatic coast boasts a Mediterranean climate, characterized by: hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters
Visa Requirements
General requirements
Croatia’s visa regime is part of the EU acquis, requiring non-EU citizens to apply for visas, with some exceptions (e.g. US citizens)
Application requirements
Detailed information and documentation can be found on the official government website.
Processing time
15 days from the date of submission, with possible extensions to 30 or 60 days for justified reasons
Applications submitted less than 15 days prior to the planned journey may not be processed in time, and the Embassy will not be held liable
Cost
Visa fee: 70 USD (payable in RMB) when applying for a visa
General Film Permit
Issuing organization
The Municipality is responsible for issuing film permits
Timings
Processing time: 1-3 weeks
Application Requirements
- A formal, detailed request on a memo is required
- Additional documentation may vary depending on the County (Županija)
- Permits are typically only issued to Croatian-based companies
Cost
The cost of a film permit ranges from €200, depending on the location and time of year (tourist season)
Note
The specific requirements and costs may vary depending on the location and type of production. It’s recommended to check with the relevant authorities and a local fixer for the most up-to-date information.
Drone Permit
Drone regulations
The maximum flight altitude is 120 meters, and you must always maintain visual line of sight. Keep the drone away from no-fly zones and uninvolved persons.
If you want to fly a drone over 250g, you are required to obtain an EU drone certificate. Before flying, register your drone with the relevant authorities.
Drone importation regulations
To import a drone, the pilot needs a valid EU License. It’s essential to adhere to these regulations to ensure safe and legal drone operations in Croatia, aligned with EU and EASA guidelines.
Permit Issuance
Croatian Civil Aviation Agency
Timings
5-15. days
Cost
Approximately 200€
Equipment Customs Clearance
Carnet Country?
Yes, Croatia is a Carnet country, simplifying customs procedures for temporary imports
General process
You need to declare the carnet at customs of the first EU country you visit when you enter EU as well as the last country when you depart
Required documentation
Carnet
Issuing organization
Customs Office
Timings
1 week for clearance processing
Safety and Security
Croatia is considered an extremely safe destination.
Security requirements
None needed, as Croatia is a low-risk country
