Filming in Portugal
To be able to film in Portugal (whether a Portuguese or foreign production), a range of administrative procedures may need to be completed in relation to licensing, permits or prior notification.
There is a simulator tool on this page that will help you find the information you need to be able to film in Portugal.
When you select the desired options in the simulator, information and contact details for the various services and entities that you will need to call upon to film in Portugal will appear. This will facilitate the process for obtaining a filming permit.
Alternatively, you can choose your desired service directly at the bottom of this page.
Permits and Licenses
To film in Portugal, you may need permits, licences or expert assessments.
Run the simulation to find out what you need (temporarily unavailable).
Portugal Film Commission
Contact the Portugal Film Commission (PFC), if you have any questions about a simulation that you have run, or if you require further information about film production in Portugal. You will also find other services on the PFC website, such as a production guide, a location guide and financial support that is available.
Simulator
A new simulator is being developed.
Services
To be able to film in Portugal, you may need to apply for licences or permits or to submit advance notifications. Below is a list of services that you may need to shoot video footage or take photographs. Other procedures not directly related to filming may also be necessary.
Visas and customs procedures
- Schedule a service at the immigration and borders service (SEF)
- Request a residence or temporary stay visa to work in the entertainment sector
- Request a short-term Schengen visa
- Request the temporary importation procedure the temporary importation regime allows non-European Union (EU) goods to be used temporarily in the territory of the EU Taxation and Customs Union
Support and incentives
- Application for the Cinematographic and Audiovisual Production Incentive
- Review of the decision of the incentive request for Cinematographic and Audiovisual Production
Permits and licences
The type of permit needed to film at a historic or cultural heritage site varies depending on the entity responsible for the location. Consult this list of monuments to find out whether the location where you wish to film (PDF) falls under the responsibility of the Directorate-General for Cultural Heritage (DGPC) or a Regional Directorate for Culture (DRC).
- Request authorization to film in monuments, museums and palaces Directorate-General for Cultural Heritage (DGPC)
- Request space for an event - Regional Directorates for Culture (DRC's).
Other permits and licences
- Request authorization for filming and/or photographing cetaceans in the waters of continental Portugal
- Shooting footage or photographs in the Azores
- Request for filming in the Autonomous Region of Madeira
- Request licenses and permits for activities on roads or railway lines you must apply for a licence or permit to carry out activities such as filming on or near a road or railway track.
- Request licenses and permits on the Capitania Online+ platform you can use the Capitania Online+ plataform to apply for a permit to film on a beach, sea wall or coastline
- Request authorization for children to participate in arts and entertainment