The Film Tax Credit is a refundable tax credit for costs directly related to the production of films in Nova Scotia.
Eligible corporations will receive a credit equal to the lesser of:
- 35 percent of eligible Nova Scotia labour expenditures; or
- 17.5 percent of total expenditures made in Nova Scotia
A 5 percent geographic area bonus on labour expenditures (2.5 per cent bonus on total expenditures) is available for films shot outside of the Halifax Regional Municipality. As well, a 5 percent frequent filming bonus is available to companies who have produced 3 films in a 24 month period.
| Film Tax Credit Rates |
| | Base Tax Credit Rates | Regional Bonus of | Frequent Filmer Credit | Total Potential Tax Credit |
| Labour Expenditures | 35.0% | 5.0% | 5.0% | 45% |
| Total Expenditures | 17.5% | 2.5% | 2.5% | 22.5% |
EligibilityTo be eligible for this credit, a corporate must satisfy all of the following requirements.
- Be a taxable Canadian corporation.
- Must primarily be a film or video production business.
- Must have a “permanent establishment” in Nova Scotia.
- At least 25% of salaries must be paid to Nova Scotians.
To be eligible for this credit, the film must be:
- Intended for a television, cinema, videotape or non-theatrical production and the subject matter of the film is drama, variety, performing arts, an animated or informational series, a documentary or music programming.
The film
cannot be a film that has been prohibited for use or exhibition under the
Theatres and Amusements Act or be:
- A film produced to solicit funds,
be a film produced primarily for industrial, corporate or institutional purposes.
- A film, other than a documentary, all or substantially all of which consists of stock footage;
consist of any of the following types of programming: news, current events or public affairs, weather or market reports, talk shows, games, questionnaires or contests, other than in a film that is directed primarily at minors, sports events or activities, gala presentations or awards shows, reality television, pornography or advertising.