The Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) is one of the world's most prestigious film events, running 11 days each February across multiple Berlin venues. The concurrent European Film Market (EFM) makes it a critical gathering for international sales agents, distributors, and producers. Non-EU crews and press bringing cameras, film reels, and production gear need an ATA Carnet to enter Germany without paying EU import duties.
Non-EU film crews, press, and production companies attending Berlinale need an ATA Carnet covering professional equipment. Germany accepts carnets for all standard ATA categories including cinema cameras, audio equipment, and physical film materials. The carnet is valid for 12 months — a single carnet can cover Berlinale in February and other German trade shows later in the year.
Berlin Film Festival is held in Germany. Review the specific ATA Carnet requirements, accepted uses, and entry procedures for Germany before you travel.
Full Germany Carnet Guide6–8 weeks before Berlinale (December)
Begin equipment list. Film cameras, lenses, and reels should be itemized with serial numbers and USD or EUR values.
4 weeks before
Submit carnet application. Germany requires precise equipment descriptions — "film camera" alone is insufficient.
2 weeks before
Receive carnet. Coordinate with freight forwarder for equipment shipping separately to Berlin.
Arrival at BER
Present carnet to German Zoll at Berlin Brandenburg Airport. Officers stamp importation vouchers.
Festival days (approximately 11 days)
Keep carnet accessible. Zoll may check credentials at official venues and the EFM market.
Departure from Germany
Obtain re-exportation stamps from Zoll before equipment leaves Germany. Required for discharge.
Within 2 weeks of return
Return completed carnet to EasyCarnet for USCIB or Canadian Chamber discharge.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
Primary gateway — German Zoll at BER processes carnets; allow extra time during Berlinale February season
Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
Alternative for long-haul freight; 4 hours by train or 3.5 hours by road to Berlin
Berlinale Palast & Berlin venues
Screenings spread across multiple Berlin venues; freight coordinated through official logistics partners
Ready to apply?
Starting at $499 for equipment under $10k. Same-day processing available.
Start ApplicationStarting at $499 for equipment valued under $10k. Same-day processing available for last-minute bookings.