FAQ - frequently asked questions

• When is a shoot editorial?

  Editorial means that the photo and video material may be used in a journalistic, information-orientated form of presentation - i.e. not for commercial/advertising purposes (for example, when using recordings in connection with news, reporting, etc.).

• When is a film shoot commercial?

  Use is deemed to be commercial if it is aimed at generating profits (e.g. commercials, feature films, photos for advertisements, etc.). These projects require a fee-based contract.

• Can I take commercial photos or videos on ÖBB trains?

  No, commercial photography and filming on our trains is not possible. Editorial filming can be requested using the above form for editorial projects.

• Can I travel by train free of charge with an editorial filming permit?

  No, the photo and filming permit is not valid as a train ticket. Every person involved in the filming must have a valid ticket.

• How much time should be allowed for obtaining a filming permit?

  • For editorial enquiries please complete the form in good time (if possible at least 3 days before a planned shooting date). 
  • For commercial enquiries we ask you to observe a lead time of at least 14 working days. Filming requests with insufficient lead time cannot be considered. 

• Which areas are permitted for film and photo shoots?

  • Filming is only possible in publicly accessible areas of ÖBB: More information can be found in the document Behaviour on railway facilities. 
  • In principle, railway stations, bus stops and bus routes are available as photo and film locations. For each filming permit, an individual decision is made as to whether filming is possible at this location and within the scope of the filming project.

• Where is my filming permit valid?

  • In ÖBB trains and railway stations, the Austrian Federal Railways have domiciliary rights. 
  • The photo and filming permit is only valid within the Austrian state border (ÖBB trains, ÖBB railway stations). 
  • Please note that the photo and filming permit is not valid as a train ticket. Every person involved in the filming must have a valid ticket. 

• What must be observed during the photo and film shoot?

  • The photo and filming permit is only valid with both signatures (from the contractual partner and ÖBB). 
  • The photo and filming permit must be presented to our employees on request on site. 
  • Please note that passengers must not be disturbed or hindered. 
  • Our employees may only be filmed/photographed with their express permission. 
  • The ÖBB Group accepts no liability for damage. 
  • Filming is only possible in publicly accessible areas of ÖBB: You can find more information in the document Behaviour on railway facilities.  

• When is a filming permit not granted?

  • Each enquiry is checked and evaluated individually. 
  • A permit can only be issued if it is compatible with the document Behaviour on railway facilities. 
  • Filming on public holidays, weekends and at night is not permitted.

• Is it possible to film for private use without a filming permit?

  • You do not need authorisation to make recordings for private purposes (no commercial use) in areas that are freely accessible to the public.
  • Private snapshots can be taken with a mobile phone without a filming permit. Please always ensure that you do not disturb ongoing operations or our passengers and follow our rules as set out in the document Behaviour on railway facilities.