Portugal’s New Funding Framework: Redefining Possibilities for Film and Audiovisual Production
Portugal’s film industry has entered a new phase with the launch of SCRI.PT — the country’s Audiovisual and Film Industry Funding Program. This program makes it easier for film producers to access funding that is meant to strengthen competitiveness, attract international productions, and reinforce the long-term sustainability of the film and media sector. For production companies working in Portugal, this is more than just another policy update. It’s a clear signal that Portugal is set on expanding and strengthening its already prominent position as a serious production hub, with a framework that rewards scale, professionalism, cultural value, and international reach.
A Signal of Confidence Backed by Funding
SCRI.PT is supported by a total budget of 350€ million for the years 2026–2029. The fund is managed by the Portuguese Film and Audiovisual Institute (ICA), and in cooperation with Portugal Media Lab and Turismo de Portugal. The program is built around two important schemes: RIPAC, the Audiovisual and Film Production Incentive Scheme, and a Mutual Guarantee Scheme supporting production financing.
The scale of this matters. Why? In clear and practical terms, it gives producers a less complex, longer-term framework for planning more ambitious projects in Portugal, whether the goal is a feature film, a prestige series, or a production with significant post-production, animation, or immersive components.
RIPAC: The Direct Incentive Engine
The heart of SCRI.PT is RIPAC, which consolidates a couple of programs - previously known as the cash rebate and cash refund - into a single incentive structure. RIPAC allocates 200€ million in non-repayable grants over the 2026–2029 period, with two distinct funding tracks: one for medium-budget productions with two application rounds per year, and one forlarge-scale productions open on a rolling basis throughout the year.
For production companies, this should be very a welcome evolution. It simplifies the incentive possibilities while still preserving flexibility for different project types. The expected result is that Portugal is even more attractive to both domestic and international partners.
What Productions Will See the Benefits?
Projects produced entirely or partly in Portugal can qualify, but they’ll need to meet certain regulations and fall within eligible categories such as feature-length fiction, documentary or animation films intended for theatrical release, audiovisual works intended for TV or on-demand release, and productions that incorporate interactive, augmented reality, or virtual reality elements.
Additionally, applicant will need to show provable financing that covers more than 50% of the projected eligible expenditure and demonstrate commercial use has been secured. In other words, some work needs to be done ‘up front’ to ensure that your production will fit the guidelines and be eligible. Another key factor requires that filming or key animation must begin within six months of the application date or the prior registration of the aid request.
Simply put, SCRI.PT is clearly designed for projects that are not only creatively strong, but also financially prepared and production-ready.
Eligibility and Cultural Value
To apply, entities seeking fundiung must be 1) resident taxpayers in Portugal, 2) non-resident entities with a permanent establishment in Portugal, or 3) companies headquartered in another European Union country or European Economic Area that establish a company or branch with tax status in Portugal. Applicants must also be registered in ICA’s register of film and audiovisual companies.
Projects are then evaluated through a cultural eligibility test, based on their cultural, audiovisual, and promotional value. To qualify, productions must score at least 45 points overall, including at least 18 points in Part A (if you’re interested in learning more about the test, you can find it on the Portugal Commission Film site). It’s important to note that different thresholds apply to foreign productions and to projects that involve production or post-production in Portugal without filming.
This is all designed to reinforce a key point: Portugal is not simply offering incentives - it is prioritizing projects that have artistic merit, industry relevance, and a genuine value for the country’s filmmaking ecosystem.
For experienced production companies, SCRI.PT is an opportunity to build smarter partnerships, attract larger projects, and plan with greater certainty. The program reflects a more mature incentive environment — one that supports both inward investment and the development of local production capacity.
It also encourages producers to think strategically about structure, financing, and value creation. From above-the-line planning to cultural eligibility, the rules reward companies that understand how to align creative ambition with production discipline. For productions considering Portugal — and for the companies helping shape the country’s screen future — the message is clear: the framework is in place, the funding is substantial, and the opportunity is real.
If you are planning a production in Portugal, this is the right moment to start the conversation. We are here to help turn ambitious ideas into productions that can move from script to screen with confidence.
Working With a Team That Knows the Terrain
Successfully navigating a funding programme like SCRI.PT requires more than ambition. It requires local knowledge, production discipline, and a strong understanding of how to align creative goals with eligibility, financing, and timing requirements.
That is where experienced Portuguese production partners make the difference. We understand the realities of producing in Portugal, from development and financing through to execution and delivery. We know how to position projects for the market, structure them for production, and support teams looking to make the most of what Portugal now offers.