Cyprus is becoming a popular place for big movie-making companies

Cyprus has established itself as the primary hub for the worldwide film business. Cyprus is already firmly established on the international film map because of initiatives, which have successfully attracted large production firms.

According to Lefteris Eleftheriou, director and chairman of the Cyprus Film Commission, the 13 productions now in progress in Cyprus represent an exceptional accomplishment for the country.

Among these is a project led by Stelana Kliris, director of Find Me Falling, a film that topped Netflix’s Top 10 most-watched list upon release. In addition to local talents, productions from Germany, France, and Israel, as well as reality shows from leading Scandinavian companies, are being filmed across Cyprus.

Government incentives encourage the growth of the industry

The Cyprus Filming Scheme, which established state incentives in 2018, is largely responsible for the audiovisual industry's explosive growth in Cyprus. These incentives, which include VAT refunds, tax credits, cash rebates, and tax deductions for infrastructure projects, are all intended to draw foreign filmmakers to Cyprus. Eleftheriou claims the plan has gained significant traction since 2022, despite a delayed start during the pandemic.

Under this program, Cyprus has attracted major production companies such as Paramount, Warner Bros., Channel 5, Channel 4, and Canal+, creating new jobs and enhancing local knowledge.

Expanding in the U.S. market

Cyprus now has more opportunities in the international entertainment scene because to the success of Find Me Falling. With applications coming in steadily, Eleftheriou is hopeful that more productions will start shooting in 2025. Conversations with film experts and businesses interested in Cyprus have been sparked by the positive response from platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime.

Although Cyprus has mostly concentrated on attracting European businesses, Invest Cyprus is about to take a big step by focusing on the U.S. market, given that it has only lately begun to build relationships in the area.

Economic and educational impact

The growth of the audiovisual sector has also made a notable contribution to the Cypriot economy. The production process alone now employs more than 300 Cypriots, and the broader ecosystem of services like catering and hospitality also benefits from this influx.

To further support local talent, the Cyprus Film Commission is advocating changes to current policies that would require foreign productions to hire Cypriot audiovisual students. This measure aims to provide hands-on experience and industry connections, enabling these students to launch their careers or establish their own ventures post-graduation. The proposed updates to the policy have been submitted for review by the Finance Ministry.

The Film Commission is also planning to implement environmentally friendly practices in response to production companies’ requests for greener filming options, aligning Cyprus with the industry’s increasing commitment to sustainability.

With this blend of incentives, international interest, and a proactive approach to industry growth, Cyprus is rapidly becoming a key player in the world of film and television production.