The Netherlands Film Production Incentive provides up to a 35% cash rebate for eligible production costs spent in the Netherlands, supporting feature films, documentaries, and animated films that strengthen the Dutch film sector. The program encourages international collaboration, talent development, and increased production activity within the Netherlands. Eligible production companies can receive up to €3 million per year, provided they meet strict experience and legal requirements.

Netherlands Film Production Incentive: Funding for International Film Collaboration

Overview

The Netherlands Film Production Incentive is a national funding scheme designed to strengthen the Dutch film ecosystem, increase production activity, and attract international collaboration. By offering a cash rebate of up to 35%, the program supports high-quality film projects that contribute to the country’s creative, technical, and economic development.

Why It Matters

This incentive plays a strategic role in:

• Expanding the Dutch film industry’s global competitiveness

• Attracting international producers and co-productions

• Supporting local talent, film crews, and creative companies

• Boosting diversity, distribution, and visibility of film content

• Increasing long-term film production capacity in the Netherlands

The incentive ensures that the Netherlands remains a valuable partner in the international filmmaking landscape.

Key Funding Features

• Financial benefit: Up to 35% cash rebate

• Eligible spending: Costs must be demonstrably spent in the Netherlands

• Supported formats:

  • Feature films

  • Feature-length documentaries

  • Animated films

• Maximum contribution: €3 million per year per production company

• Primary goal: Strengthen the Dutch film sector through talent development, production activity, and international cooperation

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

An applicant must be an independent production company that:

• Is a legal entity

• Has been established for at least two years

• Is located in:

  • The Netherlands

  • EU or EEA member states

  • Switzerland

  • The Caribbean Netherlands

• Actively produces and exploits films or audiovisual works

Producer Requirements

The producer representing the company must:

• Have led at least one majority film production in the past seven years

• Present a reference film with:

  • A production budget of €500,000 or more

  • A confirmed theatrical release in the Netherlands

These requirements ensure applicants have the experience to deliver large-scale productions.

What Types of Projects Are Supported?

To be eligible, productions must:

• Create measurable value for the Dutch film industry

• Contribute to talent development and sector diversity

• Stimulate collaboration with Dutch companies

• Include production activities that take place inside the Netherlands

This includes creative, technical, and post-production work.

How the Incentive Works

1. Prepare Your Production Plan

Include:

• Detailed budget

• Project timeline

• Dutch spending breakdown

• Co-production agreements (if applicable)

2. Demonstrate Dutch Sector Value

A strong application shows how the project contributes to:

• Production activity

• Talent development

• Collaboration with Dutch companies

• International exposure

3. Submit Application

Applications must be submitted during designated funding rounds via the Netherlands Film Fund portal.

4. Evaluation and Approval

Projects are assessed based on:

• Cultural and professional value

• Economic and creative impact on the Dutch sector

• Feasibility and financial structure

5. Receive Cash Rebate

After approval and verification of eligible costs, the rebate (up to 35%) is issued.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting without the required reference film or budget threshold

• Failing to demonstrate production spending within the Netherlands

• Applying before the company has existed for at least two years

• Underestimating documentation requirements for Dutch expenditures

• Not proving measurable benefit to the Dutch film sector

FAQ

1. What is the maximum funding a project can receive?

Up to €3 million per year per production company.

2. What qualifies for the 35% cash rebate?

Eligible production costs spent in the Netherlands, including creative, technical, and post-production activities.

3. Can international producers apply?

Only if they apply through or partner with an eligible independent production company located in the Netherlands, EU/EEA, Switzerland, or the Caribbean Netherlands.

4. Are animated films supported?

Yes, animated feature-length films are eligible.

5. What experience must the producer have?

At least one majority film production in the last seven years, with a minimum €500,000 budget and a theatrical release in the Netherlands.

6. Are co-productions allowed?

Yes. The program strongly encourages international co-productions involving Dutch companies.

7. What types of projects are considered valuable to the Dutch sector?

Projects that increase production activity, promote talent development, enhance diversity, and involve Dutch creative or technical partners.

Conclusion

The Netherlands Film Production Incentive is a powerful financial tool supporting high-quality domestic and international film productions. With its generous 35% rebate and clear eligibility structure, the program helps strengthen the Dutch film ecosystem while attracting global collaboration. For experienced production companies looking to amplify their creative ambitions, this incentive offers a strategic pathway to produce compelling films with strong international impact.