Filming in Germany: A Guide for International Productions

Filming permits in Germany are handled at the municipal level, meaning that requirements and application processes vary depending on the city.

Securing the appropriate permits is an essential part of planning any film or TV production in Germany.

For smaller productions—typically involving a crew of up to five people (including on-screen talent) and minimal equipment such as a tripod—the application process is often relatively straightforward in many cities. However, requirements can still differ depending on the municipality.

For larger or more complex productions, particularly in major cities with high filming activity, it is advisable to allow sufficient lead time. Standard processing times usually range from 2 to 4 weeks. Thanks to our experience and established local contacts, we are often able to support faster turnaround times in certain cases.

The cost of filming permits varies depending on the location, the scope of the production, and the specific municipality. While some authorities do not charge fees for smaller shoots, productions with a moderate crew and equipment setup can typically expect costs in the range of a few hundred euros.

As the official language is German, applications are generally expected to be submitted in German. Submissions in English may not always be processed or may lead to delays.

If you are planning a shoot or film production in Germany and require support with permits, feel free to get in touch to discuss your project.

For more detailed information, including city-specific guidelines, please refer to our article on filming permits in Germany.

In many cases, film crews do not need a visa for short-term shoots in Germany, but this depends on nationality, duration of stay, and the type of work involved.

Visa requirements are determined by your country of origin and the agreements in place with Germany (or the Schengen Area).

Citizens of countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia can generally enter Germany without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, provided that no economic activity is being carried out.

In practice, certain film-related activities may fall under this exemption. However, this depends on the nature of the production and the specific role of each crew member, and should therefore be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

If a visa is required, it is typically issued as a short-term Schengen visa (Type C), allowing stays of up to 90 days.

From late 2026, visa-exempt travellers will need to obtain an online travel authorisation (ETIAS) prior to entering Germany. The application process is straightforward and the authorisation is valid for up to three years.

If you are unsure about your specific situation, feel free to get in touch—we are happy to advise and help determine the appropriate requirements for your production.

Visa requirements can vary depending on the specific production setup and should always be confirmed in advance.

Yes, you can generally get by with English in Germany, but there are important limitations—especially in professional and administrative contexts.

While many people in Germany speak at least some English, this does not always apply in official or production-related situations.

Public authorities generally expect communication to be conducted in German. Enquiries submitted in English may be delayed or, in some cases, may not receive a response at all. In addition, not everyone is comfortable communicating in English—particularly when it comes to interviews or on-camera contributions.

When arranging filming permits, locations, or interview partners, it is often advisable to establish contact by phone. Direct communication can help speed up processes and build support for a project, which is not always achievable through written correspondence alone.

While modern tools make it easy to translate language instantly, they often fail to capture cultural nuances and context. In practice, challenges often arise not only from language itself, but also from how communication is perceived—for example, in situations involving detailed agreements or expectations.

With the right local approach, such issues can usually be resolved early and effectively. We support productions with clear communication, translation, and on-the-ground coordination to ensure smooth workflows and avoid misunderstandings.

Germany offers a highly skilled and internationally experienced pool of film crew, supported by a strong network of film schools and professional training programs.

We work with an extensive network of experienced and vetted crew members, allowing us to recommend the right professionals for the specific needs of each production.

Hiring local crew can significantly reduce travel and accommodation costs, and in some cases overall production expenses. It also helps minimise air travel, supporting more sustainable production practices.

German crew members are typically fluent in English and are accustomed to working standard international production schedules, including 10-hour days or longer when required.

We support productions with crew sourcing, coordination, and invoicing—ensuring efficient workflows throughout your film production in Germany.

Renting camera equipment locally in Germany is often the most practical and cost-effective option for international productions.

Germany offers a wide range of well-established film equipment rental companies, with high-quality gear available across all major production hubs. We maintain strong relationships with many of these providers and can often offer access to preferential rates.

Renting equipment locally helps avoid the administrative effort associated with carnets, as well as additional costs such as excess baggage fees. It also reduces logistical risks, as international shipments may be delayed or, in some cases, may not arrive on time—potentially impacting production schedules.

In addition, many productions are increasingly committed to sustainable and environmentally responsible practices, making local equipment rental an important consideration.

We are happy to advise on the most suitable equipment options and coordinate rentals based on your production needs.

Drone filming in Germany is strictly regulated, but with the right expertise and preparation, a wide range of operations is possible.

Compared to some other countries, drone regulations in Germany are more restrictive, with a significant number of no-fly zones and location-specific requirements.

Drone pilots must hold a valid EU drone license (A1, A2, or A3, depending on the operation), and dedicated drone liability insurance is mandatory. In addition, all operations must comply with EU regulations regarding drone classes (C0–C6) and operational categories (such as open and specific).

For this reason, working with local drone operators is often the most efficient approach. They already hold the necessary registrations and operational authorisations, which can significantly streamline the approval process. In addition, they have detailed knowledge of where drone flights are permitted, which drone classes can be used in each scenario, and how to navigate regulatory restrictions.

As drone shoots can be complex and often require permits from multiple authorities, it is important to allow sufficient lead time—typically between 2 and 6 weeks, depending on the location and scope of the operation.

In certain cases, faster approvals may be possible. Based on our experience and direct coordination with the relevant authorities, we can help assess timelines and explore available options.

Due to the regulatory complexity, international productions filming in Germany often choose to work with local drone operators. We work with a trusted network of experienced professionals and can connect you with the right team for your project, including in Austria where we also have established partners.

While it is possible to film in Germany without a fixer, most international productions choose to work with a local expert on the ground to ensure a smooth and efficient production process.

Some productions initially assume that working without a fixer in Germany is feasible, as the country is considered a very safe travel destination and many people speak at least some English. Budget considerations often play a role in this decision. However, in practice, foregoing local support can lead to inefficiencies, delays, and avoidable challenges.

Many productions find that an experienced fixer adds significant value by combining multiple roles—such as local producer, driver, translator, and general production support—into one versatile function. This can help streamline crew structures, reduce additional travel costs, and ensure efficient coordination on the ground.

Film productions are inherently dynamic, and unforeseen situations frequently arise. With an experienced fixer on the ground, such challenges can be addressed quickly and effectively. For example, last-minute location changes or the need to source additional contributors, equipment, or permits at short notice can often be managed efficiently with local expertise.

Beyond logistics, a skilled fixer also acts as a bridge between languages and cultures by facilitating clear communication. They help prevent misunderstandings and create a positive working environment in which contributors and interview partners feel comfortable, while also anticipating and mitigating potential issues before they arise.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, including more than a decade supporting international productions in Germany, we understand how to navigate local processes efficiently and keep productions running smoothly.

Depending on your needs, we offer tailored support—from targeted assistance in specific areas to full-service production support on the ground.