Passing the 16-of-32 cultural test.

Sixteen of thirty-two points — and it is easier than it looks

To access the incentive a production must pass a cultural qualification test scored out of 32 points, reaching at least 16 points, of which at least 2 must be cultural. In practice most international productions clear it comfortably; the test is designed to confirm a European or Hungarian connection, not to keep films out. We complete and submit it for you.

Cultural criteria (examples, 1 point each)

• Film reflects important Hungarian or European values — cultural diversity, equality, family, human rights, the environment.
• Film shows Hungarian or European culture and identity.
• Storyline based on a literary or artistic work of cultural value.
• Based on a Hungarian or European character from religion, culture or mythology.
• Storyline based on a European or Hungarian historical, religious or mythological event.
• Based on a current European or Hungarian political, sociological or cultural issue.
• Focused on European or Hungarian traditions and customs.
• Story set in a European scene, landmark, location or cultural environment.

Production & personnel criteria

• Hungary is a filming location.
• Final film is in any EEA language.
• Key creatives are Hungarian or EEA citizens — director, producer, DP, writer, lead or supporting cast, composer, production designer, costume designer, editor, line producer, post supervisor. Non-EEA citizens with an international festival award also count.
• At least 51% of other contributors are EEA citizens, or the picture is a qualifying co-production.

A story "set in a European location" plus shooting in Hungary and an EEA-language delivery already moves you a long way toward 16 points.

How we handle it

We map your script, cast, crew and locations to the scoring grid before you commit, flag any gap early, and file the cultural test with the National Film Office alongside registration. It is one of the first things we do, because the clock on principal photography starts once registration is approved — you must begin shooting within six months.

Next: what actually qualifies as spend, and the audit and payment timeline.