Cyprus
Located in the Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is a short flight from major European and Middle Eastern cities.
A dry and rugged country, Cyprus offers a diversity of locations including beautiful sandy beaches, rocky mountains, picturesque villages, Byzantine monasteries and mosques, and archeological ruins. The island offers two multipurpose deep-sea ports and two modern international airports. Agricultural locations include vineyards, citrus orchards and olive groves.
The island is politically divided between the Greek Cypriot south and Turkish controlled north. The south is best known for its beaches, secluded coves, rugged mountain interior, Byzantine churches, antiquities, and agricultural locations. The less developed north is known for its castles and mosques.
The country’s warm, clear waters and diving industry infrastructure make it a stand-out option for underwater filming.
Cost & Rebates
Southern Cyprus trades in the Euro and northern Cyprus trades in the Turkish lira. Locations, local talent and support crew are inexpensive. Although key crew and some specialized equipment may need to be brought in. Cyprus offers qualifying productions a 25-35% cash rebate, or tax credit of up to 35%.
When To Shoot
Cyprus enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with 300+ days of sunshine annually. Long, dry summers (May to September) and mild winters (November to March) are separated by short fall and spring seasons. Summer has cloudless skies with occasional sea breezes cooling the high temperatures. Winters are mild, with some rain and snow on the Troodos Mountains. April to November are the best months to film for weather.
The colourful Limassol Carnival takes place in February / March every year.
Visa Information
Although Cyprus is not a Schengen Area country, crew travelling on passports of western countries can enter Cyprus visa-free for stays of up to 90 days. No work permits required for short-stay filming.
Cast, Crew & Equipment
Cyprus has a small pool of directors, directors of photography and stills photographers. Key crew for larger projects may need to be brought in from abroad. Cyprus’s close proximity to major European production centres allows easy access to those pools of crew should you ever need to look further. Talent is non-union. Day rates and buyouts are negotiable. Cyprus offers mainly Greek and Turkish looks. All other talent looks need to be brought in from abroad. Some basic camera, grip and lighting equipment is available locally. You will need to bring in more specialized equipment from abroad. For productions looking to bring in film equipment Cyprus is an ATA carnet country.