Introduction
Denmark, a country known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and film-friendly environment, offers a unique and attractive location for international film and TV productions. From the picturesque canals of Copenhagen to the rugged coastlines of Jutland, Denmark’s diverse landscapes provide a wealth of opportunities for filmmakers to bring their stories to life.
With a highly skilled and English-speaking crew base, streamlined permitting process, and mild climate, Denmark is an ideal location for productions of all sizes and genres. Whether you’re looking to film a blockbuster movie, a TV series, or a commercial, Denmark has the infrastructure, expertise, and stunning locations to make your project a success.
In this guide, we will take you through the essential information you need to know when planning to film in Denmark, from visa requirements and film permits to equipment customs clearance and safety and security measures. So, let’s get started and explore the endless possibilities of filming in Denmark!
Country Overview
Denmark, a Nordic country in Northern Europe, is known for its high quality of life, strong welfare system, and leadership in sustainability. With a population of around 5.9 million, it features modern infrastructure, an educated workforce, and a business-friendly environment. Copenhagen, the capital, is a hub for design, culture, and green innovation. Denmark’s economy thrives in sectors like pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and shipping. In the creative industries, it offers a 25% cash rebate for film and TV productions, making it an attractive location with scenic landscapes, historic cities, and efficient production services.
Main Cities:
Copenhagen (the capital), Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg, and Frederiksberg
Local Language:
Danish
Local Currency:
Danish krone (DKK)
Best Time to Film:
Summer months (June to August) for ideal lighting conditions
Visa Requirements
General Requirement:
Citizens of countries requiring a visa must apply for a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) or a long-stay national visa (Type D)
Processing Time:
15-30 days, but can take up to 60 days
Cost:
Approximately EUR 75 or USD 85
Link : https://applyvisa.um.dk/NVP.App/frontpage
International Crew Accreditation
General Accreditation Requirements:
International film crew members must obtain accreditation from the Danish Film Institute or the relevant regional film fund
Processing Time:
2-4 weeks, but recommended to apply 6-8 weeks before the planned filming date
Cost:
EUR 67-270 or USD 77-310
General Film Permit
Issuing Organisation:
The Danish National Police (Rigspolitiet)
Processing Time:
2-6 weeks, but can take up to 12 weeks for complex productions
Cost:
Approximately EUR 67-670 or USD 77-770
Private Locations
General Process:
A Fixer facilitates location scouting, obtaining property owner permissions, negotiating location fees, and coordinating logistics
Cost:
Varies greatly depending on the specific details and requirements outlined in the production schedule
Discover the Diverse Film Locations of Denmark
Denmark offers a wide range of unique and captivating film locations, from vibrant cities to breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks. Here are some of the top film locations to consider:
Cities
- Copenhagen: Denmark’s capital city offers a mix of modern and historic architecture, canals, and vibrant neighborhoods like Nyhavn and Vesterbro.
- Aarhus: Denmark’s second-largest city features a charming old town, picturesque canals, and modern architecture.
- Odense: The birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, Odense offers a charming old town, canals, and historic landmarks.
Landscapes and Coastlines
- Cliffs of Møn: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Cliffs of Møn feature stunning white chalk cliffs and picturesque beaches.
- Bornholm Island: Located in the Baltic Sea, Bornholm Island offers a unique landscape of rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, and scenic villages.
- Jutland Coastline: Denmark’s west coast features a rugged and scenic coastline with sandy beaches, dunes, and picturesque fishing villages.
Castles and Historic Landmarks
- Rosenborg Castle: A 17th-century castle in Copenhagen, featuring stunning gardens and a unique architecture.
- Kronborg Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kronborg Castle is the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet and features stunning architecture and scenic views.
- Egeskov Castle: A well-preserved medieval castle on the island of Funen, featuring stunning architecture and scenic surroundings.
Unique Locations
- The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: A modern art museum located north of Copenhagen, featuring stunning architecture and scenic views of the Øresund Strait.
- The Tivoli Gardens: A historic amusement park in Copenhagen, featuring stunning gardens, architecture, and scenic views.
- The Øresund Bridge: A scenic bridge connecting Denmark and Sweden, offering stunning views of the Øresund Strait.
These are just a few examples of the many unique and captivating film locations Denmark has to offer. Whether you’re looking for urban landscapes, historic landmarks, or breathtaking natural beauty, Denmark has the perfect location for your next film project.
Drone Permit
Drone Regulations:
Operators must obtain permission from the Danish Transport, Construction and Housing Authority and follow EU drone regulations
Processing Time:
1-4 weeks, but may vary depending on the complexity of the application
Cost:
Approximately $200 – $1000
Equipment Customs Clearance
Carnet Country:
Denmark is a Carnet country
Processing Time:
1-3 hours, but can be expedited to 30 minutes to 1 hour with an additional fee or for ATA Carnet holders
Cost:
Approximately EUR 67 to EUR 267 or USD 75 to USD 300
Film Rebates and Tax Incentives
Film Rebate: Denmark does not offer a film rebate
Safety and Security
General Overview:
Denmark offers a film-friendly environment with a streamlined permitting process, mild climate, and diverse landscapes
Security Measures:
Standard precautions to protect equipment and personnel are recommended, but no specific extraordinary security measures are typically required.
