More and more often crews from different countries are visiting Georgia to film here. Same questions we discuss with all of them, so we decided to create “EcoFilm’s Guide to Georgia”, which is basically same questions answered “once and forever”. We will be updating this article with new information, so keep in touch!
- Do I need visa to enter Georgia? It depends on where you come from. Citizens of EU, UK, USA and many other countries don’t need visas up to one year or 90 days. To make sure find your country listed in Visa Information Page and maybe you might need to fill out an application on e-VISA PORTAL.
- What about filming permits? Good news: you don’t need one! Well, generally in the country. If you are entering Protected Areas, private property, etc. you will obviously need a permit. We will arrange those issues. Government is mostly friendly, as making Georgia filming-friendly country is one of state priorities. If you consider this extremely important – you can get a recommendation letter from Georgian National Film Center.
- Is Georgia a carnet country? No, it’s not.
- Georgia is not a carnet country, so what about bringing my gear? Bring all your filming gear, but have it all listed (preferably on your company letterhead paper) in English. Declare gear to customs service. Bring a letter explaining purpose of your visit. We can translate one for you to Georgian if you wish. That’s it.
- What currencies are accepted in Georgia? Our currency is Georgian Lari (GEL), and it’s the only way you can legally pay in Georgia. Drivers, hotels and some other service providers gladly accept cash payment in EUR or USD, but you can’t go shopping shop with foreign currencies.
- What about vehicles? Are roads good? Can we rent a car? Well, Georgia is a left-driving country, big roads are mostly OK and you can rent a car. But you shouldn’t! Unless you are used to driving, let’s say, in India, don’t drive yourself! Drivers are a horrible no rules are enforced and a specially prepared state of mind is required to drive here.
- What are the policies regarding aerial camera footage? So far, so good. No restrictions yet, unless you try flying nearby military objects or border lines. Our copter is available for hire, with pilot and cameraman.
- Tax rebates. Georgia offers a 20% tax rebate for film projects exceeding 4 shoot days and $300Â 000Â local spend. An extra 2 to 5% rebate applies if the country of Georgia is featured in the film.
- Is Georgia expensive? Most budget lines are quite cheap here. If you are paying trough local company like ours, 18% VAT applies, plus 20% income tax for salaries.
- Can we rent gear locally? Depends on what are you looking for. Common filming gear is available. Specialized stuff like heligimbals of super macro lenses bring with you.
- Are there any remarkable locations? Yes there are! Some are listed here, don’t miss it!
