Ireland is continuing to strengthen its reputation as an attractive destination for international film and television production, with new figures highlighting significant activity across the country’s screen industry in 2026.
According to figures provided by Ireland’s Revenue, 103 film and television productions received Section 481 tax-relief payments during the first six months of 2026. The incentive is an important part of Ireland’s strategy for attracting and supporting screen productions.
Strong Production Activity Across Ireland
The latest figures underline the continued importance of film and television production to Ireland’s creative economy.
Screen Ireland previously reported that Irish production spending reached a record €544 million in 2025, representing a 26% increase compared with the previous year. The organisation also launched an 87-project production slate for 2026.
The growing level of production is creating opportunities for actors, directors, writers, crew members and other professionals working throughout Ireland’s entertainment industry.
Ireland’s Locations Remain a Major Attraction
Ireland’s scenery continues to be one of its biggest advantages when it comes to attracting filmmakers.
From Dublin’s historic streets to the landscapes of Galway, Wicklow, Cork and Donegal, the country offers locations capable of standing in for different parts of the world.
Recent research found that Dublin has hosted more than 100 film and television productions, while Wicklow has also become a popular filming destination. Galway, Cork and Donegal have attracted productions ranging from Irish dramas to major international projects.
New Productions Continue to Film
The activity is not limited to major international studios.
Irish productions are also continuing to shoot around the country. One recent example is Landlines, an Irish inheritance drama directed by Tristan Heanue, which began filming in Connemara, County Galway, with Dónall Ó Héalaà and Moe Dunford among the cast.
Another production, Maya Butterfly, recently began filming in Ireland, further highlighting the range of projects using the country as a production base.
A Boost for Ireland’s Entertainment Industry
The continued flow of productions is good news for Ireland’s wider entertainment sector.
Film and television productions can provide employment for local crews and creative professionals while also bringing spending to accommodation providers, transport companies, catering businesses and other local services.
The success of Irish productions on the international stage has also helped raise the country’s profile as a place to make films and television programmes.
Ireland’s Global Screen Reputation Grows
Ireland has already produced internationally recognised films and television projects, while Irish actors and filmmakers continue to gain attention around the world.
With more than 100 productions receiving tax-relief payments in the first half of 2026 and record production spending recorded in 2025, the latest figures suggest that Ireland’s screen industry remains on a strong trajectory.
For audiences, the growth means more Irish-made and Ireland-shot productions could soon appear in cinemas and on major streaming platforms.
Conclusion
Ireland’s film and television industry continues to attract both domestic and international productions in 2026.
The latest tax-relief figures, combined with record production spending and ongoing filming across the country, point to a thriving screen sector that is creating opportunities while showcasing Ireland’s landscapes and creative talent to audiences around the world.
Ireland’s growing role in international film and television is proving that the Emerald Isle is becoming much more than just a filming location — it is becoming a major part of the global screen industry.
