Filming Permits in Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the most rewarding places to shoot in Europe, but permits work differently here than in most countries. There is no national film office that issues one permit for everything. Each location has its own authority, and the rules change from municipality to municipality and from canton to canton. AM Production handles the whole process for you, so your team can focus on the shoot.
Who issues filming permits in Switzerland
- Municipalities: most shoots on public ground, in streets, squares and parks need a permit from the local municipality (Gemeinde).
- Cantons and police: road closures, traffic control and larger setups are coordinated with the cantonal or municipal police.
- Nature reserves and national parks: protected areas have strict rules. Some only allow filming in exceptional cases, others with conditions on crew size, vehicles and time of day.
- Ski areas and cable cars: mountain railways, ski slopes and summit stations are private. Access, slope closures and lift transport are agreed directly with the operators.
- Railways: stations, trains and tracks of SBB, the Rhaetian Railway and other operators need permission from the respective company.
- Private owners: hotels, chalets, farms and alpine pastures need the consent of the owner, and often a location agreement.
Drones
Drone flights in Switzerland follow the rules of the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA). Restrictions apply near airports and heliports, over crowds, in nature reserves and in many mountain areas. We check every flight zone in advance, obtain the necessary authorisations and work with licensed local drone pilots.
Customs and equipment
Switzerland is not part of the EU. Camera, lighting and grip equipment brought in from abroad needs an ATA carnet or a temporary import declaration. We organise customs clearance at the border or the airport and can also source equipment locally from Swiss rental partners.
Foreign crew
Crew members from abroad may need to register or apply for a permit before working in Switzerland, depending on their nationality and the length of the shoot. We advise you early in preproduction so there are no surprises at the border.
How we handle permits
- We review your script, storyboard or moodboard and identify every location that needs approval.
- We contact municipalities, police, park authorities, operators and owners and negotiate the conditions.
- We prepare the applications, maps, schedules and insurance documents.
- We are on set to make sure everything runs as agreed.
See our full service production in Switzerland, or read more about shooting in St. Moritz and the Engadin.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a filming permit in Switzerland?
It depends on the location. A small shoot in a town can be approved within a few days, while road closures, protected areas or helicopter work need more time. The earlier we know your plans, the more options we can secure.
Do we need a permit for a small photo shoot?
Often yes, as soon as you use public ground, set up equipment or block access. Small handheld shoots are sometimes possible without a permit, but the rules differ by municipality. We check this for every location.
Can you get permits for helicopter shots?
Yes. We work with Swiss helicopter operators who handle flight permissions, landing sites and safety for aerial filming in the Alps.
Planning a shoot in Switzerland?
Tell us where you want to shoot and we'll tell you what it takes.
