Israeli film and TV tax rebate worth $13m approved

The Israeli government has introduced a new film and TV tax rebate worth around $13m (45m shekels) over two years.

The rebate, which was introduced via a government directive, is worth around $6.7m (23m shekels) in the first year, and $6.4m (22m) the second year.

After two years it will need to be reviewed and renewed.

It is valid for films or series (including documentary projects) with an investment between $145,000 (500,000 shekels) and $4.8m (16.6m).

The money will be distributed under the plan by covering 25% of a foreign film crew’s expenses.

Applications must be made through an Israeli production company and will be considered by a committee.

“Israel has many advantages in the motion picture industry, including geographic proximity between various landscapes, comfortable weather, unique and historical film locations, a good infrastructure of production facilities and services, efficient service systems, skilled professionals and an available pool of film school alumni, and therefore can serve as a hub for the production of foreign films and TV series,” reads the directive.

“We want to thank the Israeli government for agreeing to promote this program,” said Tzvi Gottlieb from the Israeli Producers Association. “Mainly to the Culture, Foreign, Economics, Finance and Tourism ministries, for all their hard work to make this happen. This is a wonderful opportunity for the Israeli creative industry and for producers worldwide, to utilize the great geographic options and talent Israel has to offer. We will be happy to assist anyone who is interested in finding a partner and locations in Israel.”

The Israeli government announced plans to introduce the incentive at the end of last year in an effort to attract more international productions.

This comes as the local film and TV production sector is booming with shows like Hatufim and BeTipul being adapted in the US as Homeland and In Treatment, respectively, and Fauda and Shtisel proving popular.