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 or  Audio-Visual Expenditure Credits (AVEC) or if applicable the Enhanced AVEC (IFTC). For film it also allows you to apply to the BFI Film Fund.

If you are applying for Enhanced AVEC (IFTC) you will need to provide evidence that the project meets the budget condition. This criteria is now included as part of the co-production form for applicants that confirm that they are applying for Enhanced AVEC (IFTC).

Please read the co-production guidance notes before making your online application. This includes Enhanced AVEC (IFTC) criteria. You must apply at least 4 weeks before principal photography/key animation starts, but please also refer to current turnaround times on our website.

To make an application or view current applications please create or log in to your account below.

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

If not all co-producing countries are signed up to the revised treaty and you are applying under the Old European Convention, please use the following points table and attach as a supporting document.

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.

Virtual statutory declarations are not accepted. It would be preferable if you can submit a scanned PDF version of the original statutory declaration, this can be attached to the online application form or e-mailed to certifications@bfi.org.uk. We understand this may not be possible for everyone and if necessary hardcopies should be posted to our offices (please do not post the whole application form and supporting documents, only the statutory declaration):

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

To discuss your project, contact the Certification Team on (+44) 0207 957 5490 or email certifications@bfi.org.uk.

The UK is a signatory to the European Convention on Cinematographic Co-production. There are two versions in force. The agreement being used must be in force in each co-producing country. View the agreements and list signatories below.

• European Convention – CETS. 147
• Revised European Convention agreement – CETS. 220

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 your project, contact the Certification Team on (+44) 0207 957 5490 or email 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.