Start a Film Production Company in Austria: Step-by-Step Guide

Austria stands as an exceptional hub for filmmakers seeking to establish their production companies in Europe. With its strategic central European location, Austria provides filmmakers access to breathtaking alpine scenery, baroque architecture, and modern urban landscapes—all within a compact, easily navigable country. Beyond its visual appeal, Austria offers substantial financial incentives, a highly skilled multilingual workforce, and a well-developed infrastructure that supports all aspects of film production.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to launch your film production company in Austria, from understanding legal requirements to accessing funding opportunities and building your creative network. Whether you’re an experienced filmmaker looking to expand internationally or an entrepreneur entering the industry, this guide provides the roadmap you need to establish a successful film production business in this cinematically rich nation.

Legal Requirements for Starting Your Film Production Company

Establishing a film production company in Austria requires navigating specific legal procedures and understanding the business structure options available to you. The right choice depends on your company’s size, scope, and long-term objectives.

Choosing the Right Business Structure

Austria offers several business structures that film production companies can adopt, each with different liability implications, capital requirements, and tax considerations:

• GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung) – This limited liability company structure requires a minimum capital of €35,000, with at least half (€17,500) paid upon registration. It’s ideal for medium to large production companies planning substantial projects.
• KG (Kommanditgesellschaft) – A limited partnership structure where at least one partner has unlimited liability while others have liability limited to their investment. This structure works well for smaller productions with investors who prefer limited risk exposure.
• OG (Offene Gesellschaft) – A general partnership where all partners share unlimited liability. This option suits small collaborative teams of filmmakers who plan to share responsibilities equally.
• Einzelunternehmer – A sole proprietorship structure perfect for independent filmmakers or directors starting with smaller projects. While simpler to establish, it offers no separation between business and personal liability.

Registration Process and Documentation

The process of registering your film production company in Austria involves several sequential steps:

1. Verify your business name availability through the Austrian Business Service Portal (Unternehmensserviceportal)
2. Draft and notarize your articles of association (for GmbH) or partnership agreement (for KG/OG)
3. Open a business bank account and deposit the required minimum capital (for GmbH)
4. Register with the Commercial Register (Firmenbuch) at your local commercial court
5. Obtain a business license (Gewerbeberechtigung) from the district administrative authority
6. Register with the tax office (Finanzamt) to receive your tax ID and VAT number
7. Register with the Austrian Social Insurance for the Self-Employed (SVA)

Industry-Specific Registrations

Film production companies in Austria must also complete industry-specific registrations:

• Register with the Austrian Film Institute (Österreichisches Filminstitut) to access funding programs and industry resources
• Join the Association of Austrian Film Producers (Fachverband der Film- und Musikwirtschaft) for industry representation
• Register with the Austrian Directors Guild if offering directing services
• Obtain specialized permits for drone filming, historical location access, or other specific production needs

Working with a local business attorney who specializes in creative industries can significantly streamline this process. Legal fees typically range from €2,000-€5,000 for complete company formation services, depending on the complexity of your business structure.

Developing a Solid Business Plan for Your Production Company

A comprehensive business plan serves as the foundation for your film production company in Austria. It not only guides your business decisions but is also essential for attracting investors, applying for funding, and establishing credibility within the industry.

Essential Components of Your Business Plan

Your film production company’s business plan should include these key sections:

Financial Projections and Funding Strategy

Detailed financial planning is crucial for film production companies, where project-based work creates variable cash flow:

• Startup costs (registration fees, equipment, office space, initial marketing)
• Operating expenses (salaries, equipment maintenance, insurance, office rent)
• Project-based budgeting templates for different production types
• Revenue projections based on distribution channels and funding sources
• Break-even analysis and profitability timeline
• Funding strategy utilizing Austrian film incentives and international co-production opportunities

Operational Structure and Team

Define how your production company will function on a day-to-day basis:

• Organizational chart with key positions and responsibilities
• Core team members and their qualifications
• Freelance network strategy for project-based scaling
• Equipment ownership vs. rental strategy
• Office location considerations (Vienna film hub vs. regional centers)
• Production workflow and quality control processes

Your business plan should be a living document that evolves as your company grows. Austrian funding bodies like the Austrian Film Institute often require detailed business plans as part of their application process, so investing time in creating a thorough plan will pay dividends when seeking financial support.

Funding Opportunities and Tax Incentives in Austria

Austria offers film production companies a robust ecosystem of funding opportunities and tax incentives that can significantly reduce production costs and increase project viability. Understanding these financial resources is essential for sustainable operations in the Austrian film industry.

FISA+ Film Incentive Program

The Film Industry Support Austria Plus (FISA+) program represents Austria’s premier film funding mechanism:

• Offers a 30% cash rebate on qualifying Austrian production expenses
• Additional 5% bonus for environmentally sustainable “green” productions
• Applies to feature films, documentaries, TV series, and streaming content
• Minimum spend requirements: €200,000 for fiction features, €100,000 for documentaries
• Maximum funding cap of €5 million per project (€7.5 million for series)
• International productions must partner with an Austrian service producer
• Cultural test requirement to ensure Austrian cultural elements

Regional Film Funds

Austria’s federal states offer additional funding opportunities through regional film commissions:

European Co-Production Opportunities

Austria’s EU membership opens doors to additional funding sources:

• Creative Europe MEDIA – EU funding for development, distribution, and promotion
• Eurimages – Council of Europe fund supporting international co-productions
• Bilateral Co-Production Treaties – Austria has agreements with Germany, France, Italy and other countries
• European Tax Shelter Systems – Access to incentives in multiple countries through co-productions

Private Investment and Gap Financing

Beyond public funding, consider these private financing options:

• Austrian private equity firms specializing in media investments
• Bank loans with creative industry focus (e.g., AWS – Austria Wirtschaftsservice)
• Pre-sales agreements with distributors and broadcasters
• Gap financing to cover funding shortfalls during production

The application processes for these funding opportunities typically require detailed project documentation, including scripts, budgets, financing plans, and distribution strategies. Working with an experienced production accountant familiar with Austrian film funding mechanisms is highly recommended to maximize your access to these financial resources.

Prime Filming Locations Across Austria

Austria’s diverse landscapes and architectural heritage offer filmmakers an extraordinary range of filming locations within a relatively compact geographic area. From imperial palaces to pristine alpine settings, understanding the unique characteristics of Austria’s filming locations can help you plan productions that maximize the country’s visual assets.

Vienna: Historic and Modern Urban Settings

Austria’s capital offers a wealth of filming possibilities:

• Imperial Vienna – Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and Belvedere Palace provide opulent historical backdrops spanning baroque, rococo, and neoclassical styles
• Art Nouveau Vienna – The Secession Building, Otto Wagner’s Postal Savings Bank, and numerous Jugendstil apartment buildings offer distinctive early 20th-century aesthetics
• Modern Vienna – DC Tower, Vienna University of Economics and Business campus, and the Donaucity district showcase contemporary architectural designs
• Urban Parks – Prater (with its iconic Ferris wheel), Stadtpark, and Augarten provide green spaces within the urban environment

Alpine Regions: Dramatic Natural Landscapes

Austria’s mountain regions offer spectacular natural settings for productions:

• Tyrol – Dramatic peaks, traditional alpine villages, and world-famous ski resorts like Kitzbühel and St. Anton
• Salzkammergut – Crystal-clear lakes surrounded by mountains, including the iconic Hallstatt village and Lake Wolfgang
• Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Stunning mountain pass with panoramic views of Austria’s highest peak
• Hohe Tauern National Park – Pristine wilderness with waterfalls, glaciers, and alpine meadows

Historic Towns and Rural Settings

Beyond Vienna and the Alps, Austria offers numerous picturesque locations:

• Salzburg – Baroque old town (UNESCO World Heritage site) and surrounding hills made famous by “The Sound of Music”
• Wachau Valley – Medieval towns, terraced vineyards, and castles along the Danube River
• Graz – Renaissance and baroque architecture with a futuristic art museum (Kunsthaus) creating interesting contrasts
• Burgenland – Vineyards, steppe landscapes, and Lake Neusiedl offering unique flat landscapes rare in Austria

Filming Permits and Location Management

When planning to film at these locations, consider these practical aspects:

• Public space filming in Vienna requires permits from the Vienna Film Commission (application at least 7-14 days in advance)
• Historical buildings often require special permission and location fees
• Natural areas may have environmental restrictions, especially in national parks
• Winter filming in alpine regions requires specialized logistics and safety measures
• Regional film commissions can assist with location scouting and permit acquisition

Building relationships with local location managers who understand the permitting processes for different regions can significantly streamline your production planning and help you access unique locations that might otherwise be difficult to secure.

Essential Equipment and Technical Resources

Establishing the right equipment infrastructure for your Austrian film production company requires balancing ownership versus rental considerations while ensuring access to the technical resources needed for various production types. Austria’s central European location offers advantages for equipment acquisition and maintenance.

Camera and Lighting Equipment Considerations

When planning your equipment strategy, consider these factors specific to filming in Austria:

• Weather-resistant gear – Alpine environments demand equipment that can handle temperature variations, moisture, and altitude changes
• Versatile lighting – Austria’s seasonal light variations require flexible lighting setups that can adapt to short winter days and long summer evenings
• Portable solutions – Many Austrian locations (historic buildings, mountain areas) have limited access, making lightweight, portable equipment essential
• Drone regulations – Austria has specific drone filming regulations requiring registration and permits for drones over 250g

Equipment Ownership vs. Rental Strategy

Develop a strategic approach to equipment that balances capital investment with operational flexibility:

Austrian Equipment Rental Houses

Austria has several professional equipment rental companies that can support your productions:

• Vienna-based rental houses – Offer comprehensive equipment packages with delivery services throughout Austria
• Regional providers – Located in Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Graz to support productions outside Vienna
• Specialized providers – Companies focusing on specific equipment types (aerial, underwater, specialized vehicles)
• Cross-border options – Austria’s proximity to Germany, Italy, and other film production hubs allows for equipment sourcing from neighboring countries when needed

Technical Infrastructure and Post-Production

Beyond on-set equipment, consider these technical infrastructure elements:

• High-speed internet connectivity for file transfers and remote collaboration
• Data storage and backup systems compliant with European data protection regulations
• Post-production facilities or partnerships with existing facilities
• Color grading and sound mixing capabilities (in-house or through partnerships)
• Digital delivery systems for various distribution platforms

When budgeting for equipment, remember that Austria’s VAT (currently 20%) applies to purchases and rentals, but registered businesses can reclaim this tax. Additionally, importing equipment temporarily for specific productions may require ATA Carnet documentation to avoid import duties.

Building Your Creative and Technical Team

Assembling the right team is crucial for your film production company’s success in Austria. The country offers a rich talent pool of film professionals with international experience, multilingual capabilities, and specialized expertise in various production aspects.

Core Team Structure for Austrian Production Companies

Consider these key positions when establishing your core team:

• Managing Director/Producer – Oversees business operations and production strategy
• Production Manager – Handles day-to-day logistics and budget management
• Creative Director – Guides the artistic vision and client relationships
• Development Producer – Focuses on project development and funding applications
• Post-Production Supervisor – Manages editing, color grading, and delivery workflows

Depending on your production focus, you might maintain some technical positions in-house while working with freelancers for project-specific roles.

Finding Qualified Film Professionals in Austria

Austria offers several channels for recruiting film talent:

Working with Austrian and International Talent

Consider these aspects when building your team in Austria:

• Language considerations – While German is Austria’s official language, many film professionals speak excellent English, facilitating international productions
• Work permits – EU citizens can work freely in Austria, while non-EU citizens require appropriate work permits
• Cultural understanding – Local crew members provide valuable insights into Austrian locations, customs, and working practices
• Union regulations – Familiarize yourself with Austrian film industry collective agreements regarding working hours, overtime, and conditions

Compensation and Working Conditions

Understanding Austrian employment standards is essential:

• Standard working day is typically 8-10 hours with overtime provisions
• Mandatory rest periods between shooting days (minimum 11 hours)
• Competitive day rates vary by position and experience level
• Social insurance contributions are required for employees
• Freelancers typically work under service contracts (Werkvertrag) or free service contracts (freier Dienstvertrag)

Building strong relationships with reliable freelancers allows your production company to scale efficiently for different project sizes while maintaining quality standards. Many Austrian film professionals have experience working on international co-productions, bringing valuable cross-cultural production knowledge to your team.

Marketing Your Film Production Company

Effective marketing is essential for establishing your film production company’s presence in the Austrian market and attracting clients both locally and internationally. A strategic approach that highlights your unique strengths while understanding the specific characteristics of the Austrian and broader European film industry will help your company stand out.

Developing Your Company Brand Identity

Create a distinctive brand that communicates your production company’s specialization and values:

• Craft a company name that works well in both German and English markets
• Develop a visual identity that reflects your production style and specialization
• Create a bilingual website showcasing your work, team expertise, and services
• Produce a compelling showreel highlighting your best production work
• Develop case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and creative approach

Digital Marketing Strategies for Film Production

Implement these digital marketing approaches to reach potential clients:

Networking and Industry Presence

Building relationships is particularly important in the Austrian film industry:

• Film Festivals – Maintain presence at key events like Viennale, Diagonale Festival, and international festivals
• Industry Associations – Join relevant organizations like the Association of Austrian Film Producers
• Co-Production Markets – Participate in events like Vienna Film Commission’s networking sessions
• Educational Partnerships – Develop relationships with film schools for talent recruitment and collaborative projects

Target Markets for Austrian Production Companies

Identify and focus on specific client segments that align with your expertise:

• International productions seeking Austrian locations and production services
• Austrian and German broadcasters commissioning content
• Corporate clients needing promotional and branded content
• Advertising agencies requiring production partners for commercial projects
• Streaming platforms with growing demand for European content
• Co-production partners for feature films and documentary projects

Remember that the Austrian film industry values personal relationships and proven track records. Investing time in face-to-face networking can be as important as digital marketing efforts, particularly when seeking partnerships for larger productions or accessing funding opportunities.

Launch Your Film Production Company in Austria

Starting a film production company in Austria offers exciting opportunities to leverage the country’s unique combination of stunning locations, financial incentives, and central European position. By carefully navigating the legal requirements, assembling the right team, and developing a clear business strategy, you can establish a successful production company that serves both local and international markets.

Austria’s film industry continues to grow, supported by generous funding programs and a commitment to developing both commercial and artistic productions. The country’s stable business environment, excellent infrastructure, and high quality of life also make it an attractive base for creative entrepreneurs looking to build sustainable film businesses.

As you embark on this journey, remember that building relationships within the Austrian film community is essential for long-term success. The industry values collaboration, professionalism, and creative excellence—qualities that will help your production company thrive in this competitive but rewarding field.