Austria
Location: Central Europe
Broadcast Regulators
Currencies
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Q. Are there any requirements, when sending EUR?
A. Just your details, the beneficiary details and the purpose of the payment.
Q. Can I send inbound and outbound payments?
A. Yes, there are no restrictions on sending money into or outside of countries using the Euro.
Q. How much can I send?
A. As much as you want.
Q. How long will it take for my funds to be received?
A. Standard international payment time. However, with the right foreign exchange broker, this can be done as fast as the same day.
Q. Who can I send EUR to?
A. Both individuals and businesses can receive funds for countries sending with the Euro.
Q. Is sending EUR expensive?
A. Not if you use the right currency broker, who will be able to offer you bank-beating exchange rates and significantly lower payment charges.
Q. Can you use forward contracts with EUR?
A. Yes. With the right currency broker, you can book a EUR exchange rate forward, protecting you against any adverse currency movements. With these contracts, you will always know exactly what is coming out of your bank account.
Information courtesy of Currencies Direct.
Film Commissions
ABA (Austrian Business Agency)
Carinthia Film Commission (CFC)
Cine Tirol Film Commission
Cinestyria Film Commission & Fund
Filmlocation Salzburg
Lower Austrian Film Commission (LAFC)
Vienna Film Commission
European Film Commissions Network (a non-profit association, which supports and promotes the European film industry and culture)
Visas & Permits
Visas & Work Permits
Austria is a member of the Schengen area.
UK passport holders can enter Austria visa-free for stays of up to 90 days, over a 180 day period, for some business-related activities (such as attending business meetings). However, for longer stays or other types of work, a visa or permit may be required.
Further information on work visas can be found at the GOV.UK website. Alternatively, please contact a local embassy, consulate or representative for more information. There are also specialist companies that provide visa and immigration support to the media industry, and may be able to assist.
Film Location Permits
Shoots that require exclusive use of public space, such as laying track, setting up large lights or controlling traffic, typically take about one to two weeks to permit.
Locations in Vienna often require permits from multiple government departments. B-roll shoots that aren’t affecting public movement don’t require permits.
Drone filming is permitted in Austria.
Customs
For productions looking to bring in film equipment, Austria is an ATA carnet country.
When to Film
When to Film
Austria has a temperate continental climate.
Winter (November to March) is cold and snow-covered, especially in the Alps. Spring (April to May) is mild with wildflowers in full bloom. Summer (June to September) is warm and dry with long days. Autumn (October) is mild with leaves changing colour.
Austria is a majority Christian country, so those holidays are observed.
Public Holidays
Public holidays may affect timing, availability and costs. See here for public holiday dates in Austria.
Costs & VAT
Generally, costs in Austria are similar to France and Germany.
The standard VAT rate in Austria, at the time of writing, is set at 20%.
Funding & Tax Incentives
Funding
Austrian Television Fund
Carinthia Film Commission
Cine Tirol Production Incentive
Cinestyria Film Commission & Fund
Federal Province of Salzburg
Film Industry Support Austria (FISA+)
Österreichisches Filminstitut (OFI) (Austrian Film Institute)
Province of Upper Austria
State of Vorarlberg
Vienna Film Fund
Europe-Wide Funding
European Commission's Interactive Funding Tool
Tax Incentives
Tax incentives for Austria