A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Poland
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Poland: What You Need to Know
When filming in Poland, there are a few important steps all international filmmakers must take. While smaller video productions generally don’t need film permits, larger shoots or those taking place in historical sites or public spaces such as bust streets, parks, and state forests, will need official permissions from the relevant city authorities or the film commission. Fortunately, the application procedure is straightforward, and with guidance from a local film production support company like Fixer Poland, won’t take more than two weeks to be processed.
Filmmakers wishing to use a drone will need authorisation from the Civil Aviation Authority and the pilot must have a valid EU Drone Certificate.
It’s also important to note that photography and filming are restricted in areas connected to national security, including military zones, ports, and government buildings.
Working regulations in Poland are clearly defined. The standard filming day runs up to 12 hours, with a one-hour lunch break after five to six hours, and crews must have at least a 10-hour rest period between shooting days.
EU citizens can work freely without permits, but non-EU crews may need temporary work visas. Additionally, any productions involving stunts, pyrotechnics, or exclusive use of public areas need to alert the local authorities to ensure everything runs smoothly and without risk to the general public.
Timing Your Polish Film Production around the Weather
Filming in Poland is possible no matter the season. Winters, however, can be dreary, rainy and cold, with heavy snowfall in certain parts and temperatures falling to as low as -7 °C (19°F) in the north-east areas such as Suwalki.
Approximately 30% of the country is covered in forest, so once spring hits, Poland is like a different place. Flowers, trees, lush valleys and green rolling hills are all on display, ready to add gorgeous colour to any outdoor film production. In addition, the cafes and public squares in towns and cities bustle with people enjoying the arrival of warmer weather and sunshine. During spring, the temperatures typically don’t go higher than 16°C (60.8°F), while by July, in the height of summer, you can expect a moderate heat of no more than 20°C (68°F).
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
When compared to prices in Western Europe, renting film equipment in Poland is relatively inexpensive. That said, if you’re used to filming in Eastern Europe, you will note that it’s costlier to rent gear in Poland. The upside is that most of the equipment rental companies here are well-equipped, offering a wide selection of the latest cameras, lenses and production technology.
Partnering with an experienced local fixer like Fixer Poland can also make a big difference. With our strong industry connections and local knowledge, we’ll ensure you get the exact filming gear you need, with competitive rates or discounts where possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
Yes, Poland is an ATA carnet country, which makes it easier and less expensive for you to import additional professional filming equipment that you may need.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
Poland is a safe country, with serious crime against visiting foreigners very rare.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
No. EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa, but we recommend getting a regular Tourist Schengen visa, which grants an up to 90-day stay in the country for pleasure or business purposes. Non-EU citizens may require a short-term visa, so it’s best to check with your local Polish embassy.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
As noted above, you typically will not need a visa to film here. However, as non-EU citizens may require a short-term visa and in this instance, you will need a local company to vouch for you. Again, always check with your local Polish embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes. Poland is part of EASA, and all the European legislation is applicable.
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
Poland offers a 30% tax rebate for feature film productions. To qualify, you’ll need to have a Polish production partner, such as Fixer Poland, or a registered office or branch in the country. When you apply for the rebate, you must have at least 75% of your project’s total financing already secured.
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
It is possible to film in municipal parks, forests, and urban green spaces. However, you will need to obtain a permit from the local authority’s Department of the Environment and, if you want to shoot in state forests, the local State Forests inspectorate (nadleśnictwo).
Working with Fixer Poland
As an established Polish film production support company, we’ve had the privilege of working with a lot of top media platforms, brands, and documentary filmmakers over the years. This includes NFL Enterprises, IFPMA, the BBC, Netflix and more.
Being part of Storytailors’ global network also means that we have been able to expand the production services we provide, ensuring that we can fully tailor our offering to whatever a production needs. To this end, we have provided everything from research, translation and legal guidance, location scouting and management, crew hire, gear management, field production and full logistics.
Whatever your Poland film production needs, you can be sure that we’ll be there to help, offering a well-organized, efficient and welcoming plan of action to you and your team.