Filming in Switzerland

Finding a fixer
in Switzerland

Filming in Switzerland offers an incredible experience, but it requires careful planning to avoid unnecessary complications. As your specialist film fixer in Switzerland, we can help you move through any industry or cultural issues that might hinder or halt your project. This involves everything from helping you to organise visas and film permits, to giving you pointers on how to be mindful of Swiss culture and values. Here’s a taste of some of the support services we offer:

Visa for Switzerland

For most foreign filmmakers, short-term stays for filming in Switzerland typically don’t require a visa if you’re from a Schengen area or visa-exempt country. However, for extended projects or if your crew includes non-EU nationals, you might need specific work visas. It’s essential to check the latest visa requirements and ensure your team’s documentation is in order. As your production support partner, we’ll be happy to streamline this process, ensuring compliance with all Swiss immigration regulations.

Film Permits Switzerland

Securing film permits in Switzerland is essential for shooting in public spaces, protected areas, or important or historic sites such as the UN building. The process can vary depending on the location and the nature of your project. Local authorities generally issue permits, but specific permissions might be required for sensitive locations. As your fixer in Switzerland, we’re highly familiar with the local regulations. We can simplify the process, ensuring all permits are acquired promptly and allowing you to focus on your creative work without delays.

Special equipment
renting info

Switzerland offers top-notch film equipment rental services, catering to all your production needs. Whether you need advanced camera setups, lighting gear, or specialised drones, we’ll work on your behalf with local rental companies to provide cutting-edge technology. The availability of top-quality equipment means you can achieve the highest production standards without importing additional gear. Working with a film fixer like us also means you’ll access the best rental deals and ensure that all technical requirements are met for a seamless filming experience.

Cultural facts

Switzerland is a multilingual country with four official languages—German, French, Italian, and Romansh—and knowing a few simple phrases in the language spoken wherever your specific film permits in Switzerland allows you to film, can go a long way to making your presence more welcoming to locals. Additionally, punctuality is highly valued in this beautiful Alpine country (they are the makers of some of the world’s best watches, after all!), while respecting quiet hours is crucial in residential areas.

Weather when filming in Switzerland

This central European country’s weather varies widely, making it crucial to plan according to where you’re filming in Switzerland. Winters are cold and snowy, especially in the Alps, providing stunning backdrops for winter scenes. Summers are mild, with lush landscapes perfect for outdoor shoots. However, weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the mountains, so flexibility in scheduling and care while filming is essential. Switzerland Fixer can assist with real-time weather updates and contingency planning to keep your shoot on track.

Tax rebate in Switzerland

Swiss-international co-productions may be eligible for the Film Investment Refund Switzerland (PICS). This is a programme administered by the Federal Office of Culture offering a refund of 20%-40% of eligible film production expenses on shoots lasting a minimum of five days. Valais Film Commission, launched in 2022, offers its own cash rebate incentive, and many other areas, such as Zurich, may possibly follow suit. As your fixer in Switzerland, we can help you explore any tax rebates as well as further available financial support.

Filming in Switzerland

Filming in Switzerland offers an inspiring experience with its breathtaking mountain landscapes and bustling financial and political hubs. However, shooting on location can be challenging, especially with the varying permits needed for iconic European institutions or the logistical hurdles of filming deep in the Alps.

That’s where we come in. As your dedicated fixer in Switzerland, we handle everything—securing visas and permits, arranging equipment rentals, managing the transport of team and equipment, organising accommodation, on-site catering and more when filming off the beaten track. Our local experts know how best to get the job done and can ensure a smooth production process.

Ready to get your project rolling? Contact us today and let’s make filming in Switzerland a reality!