Learn from Gabriel Padilla about the incentives on filming in Panama
Interview during Berlinale with Gabriel Padilla from the Panama Film Commission.
The Panama Film Commission is a division under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, created to promote and facilitate the filming industry to be developed in this country by giving the producers and directors of movies and tv programs the support and benefits in order to open new opportunities in our country.
Under the Law Nº 36 of 19 of July of 2007 which establishes the norms, regulations and incentives for the film industry, we can provide services such as One Stop Shop for film permits and production needs, Web site with list of providers of equipment and services related to the film industry (makeup, catering, editing, etc.), Access to process visas and work permits, before coming to Panama, Film Fund to help boost the Panama film industry, Special incentives for companies that want to open permanent film facilities in Panama, Production Guide Book available at the web site, as well as in hard copy, and a Library of Locations available also via Internet and CD.
Commission Staff:
Gabriel Padilla
International Project Manager
gpadilla@mici.gob.pa
Daphne Burgos, Head Director
dburgos@mici.gob.pa
Charles Grazier, Marketing Promoter
cgrazier@mici.gob.pa
Virgilio Sousa, Legal Issues
vsousa@mici.gob.pa
Edison Plana, 3rd Floor
Ricardo J. Alfaro Avenue & El Paical
Panama City 01119
Panama
Incentives:
Law Nº 36 of 19 of July of 2007 provides the following benefits:
Tax incentives.
Low labor costs.
Customs and immigration benefits.
Provides “specials areas” for the development of the film industry.
Incentives for Film Studios
Law No 25 of 30 of November of 1992, establishes the following incentives and benefits for the film studios.
Tax exemption on all taxes, except Municipal.
Issuance of permanent visa to any executive of a film studio with a budget that exceeds $250,000.00.
Immigration visa and labor permit to foreign employees of film studio.
Temporary Productions Incentives
Immigration visa and labor license to temporary foreign employees of the cinematographic industry.
Immigration visa and permit of residence to macro company investors. With a budget that exceeds $ 150,000.00.
Temporary import of all film equipment is tax free.
