F.A.Qs

Goods for the production of films can be imported to Malta on a temporary permit as long as the Comptroller of Customs is satisfied that they have been imported for temporary use only. Customs usually require that the goods imported against a temporary import permit are identifiable.

All goods arriving from the member states of the European Union for the production of film do not require a temporary permit; however, proof of community states is necessary. Imported goods from countries outside the EU require a temporary permit, and Customs usually require that the goods imported against a temporary import permit are identifiable.

The whole quantity of goods should be re-exported within three months from the date of importation or within such further period allowed by the Comptroller of Customs. If so required, the importer shall apply to the Comptroller of Customs for an extension of the import period before the expiry of the first three months. Normally, a deposit must be paid to the Comptroller of Customs or security [e.g. bank guarantee] covering the duty which would otherwise be payable. The deposit is refunded [or revoked, in the case of security] on the exportation of goods in terms of the applicable rules. The goods may not be disposed of in Malta, save in accordance with the terms of permit issued by the Comptroller of Customs.

Goods imported on a temporary permit must be entered on a Customs Single Administrative Document Form. The importer shall produce certified invoices or substitute documents, delivery order, package list etc. in order to facilitate clearance, importers shall declare any identification marks as appropriate.

ATA CARNET
ATA Carnet are widely accepted and recommended for the importation of goods for film production. ATA Carnet allows the temporary importation of goods without the need of making a deposit/guarantee or submitting any Customs Declaration. ATA Carnet and T.I. [temporary importation] do not apply for consumable goods. ATA Carnet is valid for one year and T.I valid for a period of three months.

More information on import declaration procedures and import restrictions can be viewed on Malta Customs website https://customs.gov.mt/

Regulations regarding the importation of pets into the Maltese Islands fall under the responsibility of the Veterinary Regulation Directorate within the Agriculture & Fisheries Regulation Department of the Ministry for Sustainable Development, the Environment and Climate Change.

Firearms (practical and non-practical) and blank ammunition require a Police permit to be imported temporarily for film use. An application with the Police must be filed well in advance of the planned importation date. This may be done either directly by contacting the Police Weapons Office [email protected] or on 2294 2110, in which case the goods would be stored by the Police, or through licensed local Armourers who would be responsible for their storage for the duration of the filming. The Malta Film Commission can offer a list of Armourers to Production Companies seeking to use licensed locals.