Co-production

Qualifying as a British film, high-end television programme, animation programme or children’s television programme under one of the UK’s official co-production treaties allows you to access UK tax relief. For film it also allows you to apply to the BFI Film Fund.

Please read the co-production guidance notes before making your online application. You must apply at least 4 weeks before principal photography/key animation starts.

The following documents must be completed and should be attached to the online application form alongside all other supporting documents.

A printed statutory declared copy of your application form (including Parts 9 to 15 above) must be sent to us with every section completed, even if some sections are marked N/A. Virtual statutory declarations are not accepted.

If you are applying for final certification as an official co-production we will also require an accountant’s report to be completed. This is not required for television programmes that are not seeking tax relief.

Printed copies of the application form and statutory declaration alongside any supporting documents must be sent to:

The Certification Unit
British Film Institute
21 Stephen Street
London W1T 1LN

To discuss your project, contact Anna Mansi, BFI Certification Manager on +44 (0)20 7173 3214 or email anna.mansi@bfi.org.uk or certifications@bfi.org.uk.

The UK is a signatory to the European Convention on Cinematographic Co-production.

View the agreement and list signatories

Applicants are encouraged to contact the Certification Unit as early as possible to discuss their application.

The unit are happy to meet applicants at any stage of development and work with them on their projects. For further details or to discuss a project, contact Anna Mansi on +44 (0)20 7173 3214 or email anna.mansi@bfi.org.uk or certifications@bfi.org.uk.

Read HMRC’s guidance on tax relief and co-productions.

Read further information on UK tax relief.

Useful sources for finding contacts for UK producers/production companies:

• The UK directory of independent producers, published by The Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT).
• The British Films Catalogue, produced by the British Council Films Department.