Ireland has rapidly emerged as a powerhouse in global film production, attracting international studios and filmmakers who seek both creative inspiration and financial sense. Production companies are drawn by the country’s striking landscapes, modern studios, and above all, its compelling economic incentives. American actor Rob Lowe famously remarked that it’s “cheaper to bring 100 people to Ireland than to walk across the lot at Fox” in Los Angeles, highlighting how Ireland now rivals traditional film capitals like Hollywood on cost and convenience. Ireland’s transformation has been underpinned by robust industry support, including government-backed agencies like Screen Ireland and a steady stream of local talent capable of running large-scale productions to the highest international standards.

A major driver behind Ireland’s boom is its flagship tax credit, Section 481, which currently offers up to a 32% refund on qualifying Irish production expenditures, with recent enhancements raising this figure further for certain local productions. This incentive is broad in scope—it covers all production spending in Ireland, including on non-Irish cast and crew, and there is no annual limit to the number of projects that can benefit from it. Such generous terms mean studios can allocate more of their budgets to filming, post-production, and creative work, rather than costly permits, union fees, or administrative red tape that often hinder shoots in the US or UK. When compared to the spiraling costs and complex regulations endemic to Los Angeles, Ireland’s regulatory environment is refreshingly straightforward.

Production infrastructure in Ireland has rapidly matured, featuring modern studios like Ardmore and Troy, as well as a skilled workforce that rivals Hollywood veterans on expertise yet remains highly cost-competitive. Location fees and production costs are generally much lower in Ireland, with local authorities charging comparatively modest rates even for major feature films. The smaller scale and collaborative culture of the Irish film industry allows for greater flexibility, efficient turnaround, and a more “drama-free” experience than is often found on larger international sets. This professionalism, combined with a welcoming atmosphere and access to world-class scenery, makes Ireland an easy choice for a global roster of filmmakers.

As a result of these factors, Ireland’s film industry has reached new heights, with international productions fueling a virtuous cycle of investment, infrastructure upgrades, and domestic creative growth. The sector is now valued at over €1 billion annually, supporting around 10,000 jobs and contributing significantly to the national economy, while also generating unique cultural exports that reach far beyond Irish borders. The visibility of Irish talent, both behind and in front of the camera, continues to climb as more globally acclaimed films and series choose Ireland as their production base.