The Malta Film Cash Rebate Program is a significant incentive designed to attract international film and television productions to the island. It offers substantial financial rebates on eligible production expenditures incurred in Malta. Here’s a detailed overview of the program:

Key Features of the Malta Film Cash Rebate Program

Rebate Percentage

• Productions can benefit from a cash rebate of up to 40% on eligible expenditures. This competitive rebate rate is designed to make Malta a financially attractive location for filmmakers.

Eligibility Criteria

Types of Productions

• Eligible Productions: Feature films, television films, television series, mini-series, animation, creative documentaries, transmedia, and cross-media productions.
• Ineligible Productions: Commercials, reality TV shows, talk shows, game shows, and pornography.

Cultural Test

• Productions must pass a cultural test that assesses their cultural and economic contribution to Malta. This includes factors such as the use of local talent, cultural content, and the impact on the Maltese economy.

Minimum Spend

• Typically, there is a minimum spend requirement on eligible costs, which varies depending on the type of production. This ensures that the rebate is targeted at substantial productions.

Eligible Expenditures

• Personnel Costs: Wages and salaries for Maltese residents involved in the production, including cast and crew.
• Facilities and Services: Costs related to the use of local studios, post-production services, and other production facilities.
• Accommodation and Transportation: Expenses for accommodation, transportation, and catering within Malta.
• Production Costs: Expenses on set construction, props, equipment rental, and other production-related costs.

Application Process

Step 1: Pre-Application

• Before starting principal photography or production, applicants must submit a pre-application to the Malta Film Commission. This includes details about the production, budget, and estimated eligible expenditures.

Step 2: Application Submission

• Submit a detailed application that includes the script, budget, production schedule, and any other required documentation. The application must demonstrate how the production meets the cultural and economic criteria.

Step 3: Evaluation

• The Malta Film Commission evaluates the application based on the cultural test and the projected economic impact. Successful applicants receive provisional approval.

Step 4: Monitoring

• During production, the Malta Film Commission monitors expenditures to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria.

Step 5: Final Audit and Rebate

• After production, a final audit is conducted to verify the eligible expenditures. The rebate is then calculated and disbursed.

Additional Benefits

Location Scouting

• The Malta Film Commission assists with location scouting, helping productions find suitable filming locations across Malta and Gozo.

Permitting Assistance

• The commission helps with obtaining the necessary permits for filming in public and private locations, streamlining the administrative process.

Logistical Support

• Assistance with accommodation, transportation, and other logistical needs to ensure smooth production operations.

Examples of Successful Productions

Malta has hosted numerous high-profile international productions that have taken advantage of the cash rebate program, including:

• "Gladiator": Utilized Malta's historical sites for ancient Roman scenes.
• "Troy": Filmed key battle scenes on Malta’s rugged coastlines.
• "Game of Thrones": Featured locations like Mdina and Fort Manoel.
• "Captain Phillips": Utilized Malta’s maritime infrastructure.
• "Assassin’s Creed": Showcased Malta’s diverse architectural landscapes.

Conclusion

The Malta Film Cash Rebate Program offers substantial financial incentives, making Malta an attractive location for international film and television productions. With rebates of up to 40% on eligible expenditures, a supportive film commission, and a wealth of diverse filming locations, Malta provides an excellent environment for filmmakers looking to maximize their production value while minimizing costs.