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From March 3 to April 3 of this year, the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) will be accepting applications for the support program for foreign film productions and major international events. The total budget allocated for both programs through 2027 is planned at €23.67 million. Information about the program and the application process is available on the business development platform: www.business.gov.lv.
The success of the animated film Straume has sparked growing international interest in Latvia’s film industry, and several new projects are expected in the coming years. The state support program will cover up to 30% of filming expenses in Latvia, and each euro invested is expected to return at least three euros to the national economy. The support for major events will also help attract more tourists, stimulating growth not only in Riga but also in regional areas," said LIAA Director Ieva Jāgere.
The total co-financing available in this round for foreign film projects is €15.2 million over three years, while €8.4 million is allocated for organizing major international events. Each foreign film project may receive up to 30% co-financing of eligible expenses.
To date, LIAA has granted €5.28 million in co-financing to 24 film projects. The taxes paid through these supported film projects have totaled €5.67 million.
To promote the film industry, LIAA participates annually in the Berlin and Cannes film festivals alongside industry professionals, generating interest in the program from some of the world's largest streaming platforms. One of the most prominent foreign productions supported by the program is the TV series SISI.
Foreign Film Production in Latvia
Eligibility criteria for the film program:
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The film must be partially or fully shot in Latvia.
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The project must involve a new foreign film or new season/part of a film.
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Production must involve services from legal or natural persons registered in Latvia.
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Minimum eligible budget: €711,436 for feature and animated films, €142,287 for documentaries.
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At least 50% of the total project funding must be secured at the time of application.
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VAT contributions to the state budget must be at least 50% of the requested co-financing amount.
Major International Events
Eligibility criteria:
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The event is held no more frequently than once every four years or has projected revenue and expenses at least three times greater than the previous event.
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The event lasts at least one day.
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At least 5,000 international guests are expected, staying a minimum of two nights in Latvian accommodations.
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The organizer or partner must be an international organization or have experience in organizing international events.
After the application deadline on April 3, LIAA will evaluate submissions within a month and compile funding needs for each program. This information will be forwarded to the Ministry of Economics, which will request an increase in appropriations within the framework of the state budget. Annual allocations for 2025–2027 may not exceed 15% of the respective year's fiscal reserve. Once the appropriation is approved, LIAA will sign contracts with selected project implementers.
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