I thought it would be interesting and useful to others to compile a list of the various ratings given to films when they are released. The list below will identify the country, and also the name of the deciding board. Enjoy.
A motion picture rating system is designated to classify films with regard to suitability for audiences in terms of issues such as sex, violence, substance abuse, profanity, impudence or other types of mature content. A particular issued rating can be called a certification, classification, certificate or rating. Ratings typically carry age recommendations in an advisory or restrictive capacity, and are often given in lieu of censorship. (Source: Wikipedia).
Ratings by Country
Argentina
National Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual Arts (INCAA)
· ATP: Suitable for all ages, ATP stands for "Apta (para) Todo Público", meaning "for all public"
· 13: Suitable for 13-year-olds and over. Children under the age of 13 admitted if accompanied by an adult.
· 16: Suitable for 16-year-olds and over.
· 18: Suitable for 18-year-olds and over.
· 18, conditional display: Restricted to specially licensed venues.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Australia
Australian Classification Board and Classification Review Board
· G – General. The content is very mild in impact.
· PG – Parental guidance recommended. The content is mild in impact. It is not recommended for viewing or playing by persons under 15 without guidance from parents or guardians.
· M – Recommended for mature audiences. Not recommended for children under 15 years old but not legally restricted. The content is moderate in impact.
· MA15+ – Mature Accompanied. Unsuitable for children younger than 15. Children younger than 15 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The content is strong in impact.
· R18+ – Restricted to 18 years and over. Adults only. The content is high in impact.
· X18+ – Restricted to 18 years and over. Films with this rating have pornographic content. Films classified as X18+ are banned from being sold or rented in all Australian states and are only legally available in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory.
· RC – Refused Classification. Banned from sale or hire in Australia and cannot be legally imported. Films are rated RC if their content is very high in impact and exceeds the guidelines.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Austria
Austrian Board of Media Classification (ABMC) for the Federal Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture
· Unrestricted – Released for all age groups
· 6+ – Released for children from age 6
· 10+ – Released for children from age 10
· 12+ – Released for children from age 12
· 14+ – Released from age 14
· 16+ – Released from age 16. Restricted classification.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Belgium
Inter-Community Commission for Film Rating
· CAT.1 – Suitable for all
· CAT.2 – Unsuitable for people younger than 16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brazil
Department of Justice, Rating, Titles and Qualification
· L: Livre para Todos os Públicos ("Free For All Public")
· 10: Não Recomendado para Menores de 10 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 10")
· 12: Não Recomendado para Menores de 12 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 12")
· 14: Não Recomendado para Menores de 14 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 14")
· 16: Não Recomendado para Menores de 16 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 16")
· 18: Não Recomendado para Menores de 18 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 18")
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bulgaria
National Film Rating Committee
· A – Recommended for children
· B – Without age restrictions
· C – Not recommended for children under 12.
· D – Prohibited for persons under 16
· X – Prohibited for persons under 18
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Canada
Canadian Home Video Rating System (CHVRS)
Outside Quebec
· G – Suitable for viewing by all ages.
· PG – Parental guidance advised.
· 14A – Suitable for people 14 years of age or older. Those under 14 should view with an adult. No rental or purchase by those under 14. Parents cautioned. (Formerly "Adult Accompaniment (14)" in the Maritimes)
· 18A – Suitable for people 18 years of age or older. Those under 18 should view with an adult. No rental or purchase by those under 18. Parents strongly cautioned.
· R – Restricted to 18 years and over. No rental or purchase by those under 18. Content not suitable for minors.
· A – Adult. Film is not suitable for viewers under 18 years of age. (Formerly "Explicit Material (XXX)" in the Maritimes)
· E – Exempt
Inside Quebec
· G: Visa général (General Rating) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by persons of all ages.
· 13+: 13 ans et plus (13 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by children 13 years of age or over. Children under 13 may be admitted only if accompanied by an adult.
· 16+: 16 ans et plus (16 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by children 16 years of age or over.
· 18+: 18 ans et plus (18 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by adults 18 years of age or over.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chile
Council of Cinematographic Classification
· Todo Espectador – General Audience
· Inconveniente para menores de 7 años – Not suitable for children younger than 7 years
· Mayores de 14 años – Suitable for people aged 14 and older.
· Mayores de 18 años – Suitable for people aged 18 and older.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
China
China does not have a rating system. Only films that are passed as "suitable for all ages" are released although some exhibitors have introduced informal ratings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Colombia
Ministry of Culture
· T: For general audiences.
· 7: Advisory
· 12: Advisory
· 15: Restricted
· 18: Restricted
· X: Pornographic content.
· Prohibited: Contains elements that incite or advocate crime.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Denmark
Media Council for Children and Young People
· A Approval of the film for general admittance.
· 7 Approval of the film for general admittance, but not recommended for children younger than the age of 7.
· 11 Approval of the film for admittance of children from the age of 11.
· 15 Approval of the film for admittance of children from the age of 15.
· F Exempt from classification – only used on home video products (mostly documentaries, Danish stand-up shows and educational material)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Estonia
Child Welfare Act
· PERE – Family Film.
· L – Allowed to all.
· MS-6 – Not recommended for under 6.
· MS-12 – Not recommended for under 12.
· K-12 – Prohibited for under 12 unless accompanied by an adult.
· K-14 – Prohibited for under 14 unless accompanied by an adult.
· K-16 – Prohibited for under 16 unless accompanied by an adult.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finland
Finnish Centre for Media Education and Audiovisual Media
· S – For all ages.
· 7 – Over 7 years.
· 12 – Over 12 years.
· 16 – Over 16 year.
· 18 – Adults only.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
France
Ministry of Culture
· U – certificate authorising the screening of the film to all members of the public
· 12 – certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under twelve
· 16 – certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under sixteen
· 18 – certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under eighteen
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Germany
Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle der Filmwirtschaft (Voluntary Self-Regulation of the Film Industry, FSK)
· 0 Ohne Altersbeschränkung (FSK 0): no age restriction (white sign)
· 6 Freigegeben ab 6 Jahren (FSK 6): released to ages 6 and older (yellow sign)
· 12 Freigegeben ab 12 Jahren (FSK 12): released to ages 12 and older; children who are at least age 6 may be admitted with parental accompaniment (green sign)
· 16 Freigegeben ab 16 Jahren (FSK 16): released to ages 16 and older, nobody under this age admitted (blue sign)
· 18 Keine Jugendfreigabe (FSK 18): "no youth admitted", adults only. (red sign)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greece
Youth Committee
· Unrestricted – No restrictions
· 13 – Suitable for people aged 13 and above.
· 17 – Not permitted to young people under the age of 17.
· 18 – Not permitted to people under the age of 18.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hong Kong
Film Censorship Authority (FCA)
· I – suitable for all ages (circle sign)
· IIA – not suitable for children (square sign)
· IIB – not suitable for young persons and children
· III – for persons aged 18 or above only
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hungary
National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH)
· Green circle Universal, for all ages
· 6 Not recommended below age of 6
· 12 Not recommended below age of 12
· 16 Not recommended below age of 16
· 18 Not recommended below age of 18
· X Restricted below 18, for adults only
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Iceland
Smáís (See: Netherlands' Kijkwijzer)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
India
Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)
· U – Unrestricted Public Exhibition.
· UA – Unrestricted Public Exhibition but with a word of caution that Parental discretion required for children below 12 years.
· A – Restricted to adults.
· S – Restricted to any special class of persons.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Indonesia
Indonesian Film Censorship Board
· SU (Semua Umur): All ages
· R (Remaja): Teen
· D (Dewasa): Adult
· Limited (Terbatas): Passed uncut for film festival screenings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ireland
Irish Film Classification Office (IFCO)
· GGeneral home video.png General – Suitable for children of school going age.
· PGPG home video.png Parental Guidance – Suitable for children over the age of 8. Parental guidance is recommended for children under the age of 12.
· 12A12 Suitable for viewers of twelve and over. Younger children may be admitted to the film at cinemas if accompanied by an adult; on home video younger viewers are not permitted to purchase/rent.
· 15A15 Suitable for viewers of fifteen and over. Younger viewers may be admitted to the film at cinemas if accompanied by an adult; on home video younger viewers are not permitted to purchase/rent.
· 16 (cinema only) Suitable for viewers of sixteen and over. Younger viewers are not admitted.
· 1818 home video.png Suitable only for adults. Viewers under 18 are not admitted at cinemas or permitted to purchase/rent the video.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Italy
Committee for the Theatrical Review of the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities
· T (all): All ages admitted.
· VM14: Not suitable for children under 14.
· VM18: Not suitable for children under 18.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Japan
Eirin
· G: General, suitable for all ages
· PG-12: Parental guidance requested for young people under 12 years.
· R15+: No one under 15 admitted.
· R18+: No one under 18 admitted.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kazakhstan
Committee for Culture of the Ministry for Culture and Information
· К: Film is allowed for any audience.
· БА: Suitable for children over the age of 12.
· Б14: Supervision by parents recommended for children under the age of 14.
· Е16: Supervision by parents recommended for children under the age of 16.
· Е18: For viewers aged over 18.
· НА: For viewers aged over 21. Restricted to licensed venues between 10pm and 6am local time.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Latvia
Duty of the director or distributor
· U (universal audience) – Suitable for persons of all age groups
· 7+: Suitable for a person who has reached at least 7 years of age
· 12+: Suitable for a person who has reached at least 12 years of age
· 16+: Suitable for a person who has reached at least 16 years of age
· 18+: Not suitable for a minor (prohibited to people under 18)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Malaysia
Film Censorship Board (LPF)
· U (Umum) - No age limit.
· P13 (Penjaga) – Viewers under 13 years of age need parental/guardian supervision while viewing.
· 18 – For viewers aged 18 and above.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maldives
National Bureau of Classification (NBC)
· G – Suitable for all ages.
· PG – Parental Guidance.
· 12+ – For ages 12 and above.
· 15+ – Suitable for ages 15 and above.
· 18+ – Suitable for ages 18 and above.
· 18+R – Suitable for ages 18 and above. Restricted.
· PU – For Professional Use Only
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Malta
Film Board in accordance with the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts Act
· U (Universal) – Suitable for all.
· PG (Parental Guidance) – General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.
· 12A – Suitable for persons of 12 years and over: Provided that persons younger than 12 years may attend only when accompanied by an adult.
· 12 – Suitable only for persons of twelve years and over.
· 15 – Suitable for persons of fifteen years and over.
· 18 – Suitable only for persons of eighteen years and over.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mexico
The General Directorate of Radio, Television and Cinematography
· AA Informative-only rating: Understandable for children under 7 years.
· A Information-only rating: For all age groups.
· B Information-only rating: For adolescents 12 years and older.
· B-15 Information-only rating: Not recommended for children under 15.
· C Restrictive rating: For adults 18 and older.
· D Restrictive rating: Adult movies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Netherlands
Netherlands Institute for the Classification of Audiovisual Media (NICAM)
· AL All ages.
· 6 Potentially harmful to children under 6 years.
· 9 Potentially harmful to children under 9 years.
· 12 Potentially harmful to children under 12 years; broadcasting is not allowed before 8:00 pm.
· 16 Potentially harmful to children under 16 years; broadcasting is not allowed before 10:00 pm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Zealand
Office of Film and Literature Classification
· G: Suitable for general audiences.
· PG: Parental guidance may be needed for younger viewers.
· M: Suitable for mature audiences 16 years and over.
· R13: Restricted to persons 13 years and over.
· R15: Restricted to persons 15 years and over.
· R16: Restricted to persons 16 years and over.
· R18: Restricted to persons 18 years and over.
· RP13: Children under age 13 are not admitted unless accompanied by a parent or an adult.
· RP16: Children under age 16 are not admitted unless accompanied by a parent or an adult.
· R: Restricted exclusively to a certain audience.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nigeria
The National Film and Video Censors
· G (Green Sign): Suitable for viewing by persons of all ages.
· PG (Green Sign): Parental Guidance advised.
· 12 (Yellow Sign): Not suitable for people under the age of 12.
· 12A (Yellow Sign): Not suitable for people under the age of 12. A child must be accompanied by an adult to view the film.
· 15 (Red Sign): Not suitable for persons under the age of 15.
· 18 (Red Sign): Not suitable for people under the 18.
· RE (Red Sign): Films which fall under this category are to be exhibited and distributed only in specially licensed premises.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Norway
The Norwegian Media Authority (Medietilsynet)
· A – Suitable for all
· 7 – 7 years (children from 4 years old accompanied by an adult)
· 11 – 11 years (children down to 8 years accompanied by an adult)
· 15 – 15 years (young down to 12 years accompanied by an adult)
· 18 – 18 (absolute lower limit)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philippines
Movie and Television Review and Classification Board
· G (General Audiences) – Viewers of all ages are admitted.
· PG (Parental Guidance Suggested) – Viewers below 13 years old must be accompanied by a parent or supervising adult.
· R-13 (Restricted-13) – Only viewers who are 13 years old and above can be admitted.
· R-16 (Restricted-16) – Only viewers who are 16 years old and above can be admitted.
· R-18 (Restricted-18) – Only viewers who are 18 years old and above can be admitted.
· X (Not For Public Exhibition) – "X-rated" films are not suitable for public exhibition.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Poland
Since 1989 there is no official classification system, with age ratings being self-prescriptive and set by the distributors.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portugal
Comissão de Classificação de Espectáculos of the Ministry of Culture
· Para todos os públicos – For all the public (especially designed for children under 3 years of age).
· M/3 Passed for viewers aged 3 and older.
· M/6 Passed for viewers aged 6 and older.
· M/12 Passed for viewers aged 12 and older.
· M/14 Passed for viewers aged 14 and older.
· M/16 Passed for viewers aged 16 and older.
· M/18 Passed for viewers aged 18 and older.
· P Special rating supplementary to the M/18 age rating denoting "pornography"
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Russia
· 0+ Фильм разрешён для показа в любой зрительской аудитории (Film allowed for any age) – All ages are admitted. No age restrictions.
· 6+ Фильм разрешён детям, достигшим 6 лет (Film for those above 6) – Unsuitable for children under 6.
· 12+ Детям до 12 лет фильм разрешён в сопровождении родителей (Film for those above 12) – Unsuitable for children under 12.
· 16+ Фильм разрешён детям старше 16 лет (Film for those above 16) – Unsuitable for children under 16.
· 18+ Фильм разрешён детям старше 18 лет (Film for those above 18) – Prohibited for children under 18.
· Фильмы, которым отказано в классификации (Refused classification) – Banned.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Singapore
Board of Film Censors (BFC)
· G: General – Suitable for all ages.
· PG: Parental Guidance – Suitable for all but parents should guide their young.
· PG13: Parental Guidance 13 – Suitable for persons aged 13 and above but parental guidance is advised for children below 13.
· NC16: No Children Under 16 – Suitable for persons aged 16 and above.
· M18: Mature 18 – Suitable for persons aged 18 and above.
· R21: Restricted 21 – Suitable for adults aged 21 and above.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Africa
Film and Publication Board
· A: Suitable for all.
· PG: Parental Guidance
· 7–9PG: Not suitable for children under the age of 7. Children aged 7–9 years old may not be admitted unless accompanied by an adult.
· 10: Not suitable for children under the age of 10.
· 10–12PG: Not suitable for children under the age of 10. Children aged 10–12 years old may not be admitted unless accompanied by an adult.
· 13: Not suitable for children under the age of 13.
· 16: Not suitable for persons under the age of 16.
· 18: Not suitable for persons under the age of 18.
· X18: No One Under 18 Admitted; restricted to licensed adult premises.
· XX: Must not be distributed or exhibited in public.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Korea
Korea Media Rating Board
· All (전체 관람가) – Suitable for all audiences.
· 12 (12세 이상 관람가) – Suitable for persons aged 12 years and over.
· 15 (15세 이상 관람가) – Suitable for persons aged 15 years and over.
· Teenager restricted (청소년 관람불가) – Prohibits children under 18.
· Restricted – Restricted to "special theaters".
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spain
ICAA
· APTA – General admission
· 7 – Not recommended for audiences under 7
· 12 – Not recommended for audiences under 12
· 16 – Not recommended for audiences under 16
· 18 – Not recommended for audiences under 18
· Película X – Prohibited for audiences under 18
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sweden
Statens Medieråd (Swedish Media Council)
· Btl (Barntillåten) – All ages.
· 7 – Children under the age of 7, who are accompanied by an adult (a person aged 18 or over), are admitted to films that have been passed for children from the age of 7.
· 11 – Children over the age of 7, who are accompanied by an adult, are admitted to films that have been passed for children from the age of 11.
· 15 – Children under the age of 15 are not admitted to any film that is "not approved" for viewing by children.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Switzerland
Switzerland has adopted Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle der Filmwirtschaft (FSK), Germany's classification body (See: Germany FSK)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taiwan
The Government Information Office (GIO)
· General audiences category (普遍級(普)) – (G) Viewing is permitted for audiences of all ages.
· Protected category (保護級(護)) – (P) Viewing is not permitted for children under six; children viewers between six and 11 shall be accompanied and given guidance by parents, teachers, seniors, or adult relatives or friends.
· Parental guidance category (輔導級(輔)) – (PG) Viewing is not permitted for children under 12; attention and guidance from parents, teachers, or seniors are required for adolescent viewers between 12 and 17.
· Restricted category (限制級(限)) – (R) Viewing is not permitted for those under 18.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thailand
Film and Video Act of 2007
· P – Educational.
· G – General Audience.
· 13 – Suitable for viewers aged 13 years and over.
· 15 – Suitable for viewers aged 15 years and over.
· 18 – Suitable for viewers aged 18 years and over.
· 20 – Suitable for viewers aged 20 years and over. Restricted.
· Banned – Films that are not allowed to screen publicly in Thailand.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Turkey
Evaluation and Classification Board of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism
· 7+ – Suitable for viewers aged 7 and over.
· 7A – Viewers under the age of 7 may watch with accompanying family mambers.
· 13+ – Suitable for viewers aged 13 and over.
· 13A – Viewers under the age of 13 may watch with accompanying family members.
· 15+ – Suitable for viewers aged 15 and over.
· 15A – Viewers under the age of 15 may watch with accompanying family members.
· 18+ – Suitable for viewers aged 18 and over.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United Arab Emirates
The Ministry of Information of the United Arab Emirates
· G (General admission) – All ages are allowed.
· PG13 – All ages allowed but children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
· PG15 – All ages allowed but children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
· 15+ – 15 years old and above only. Children aged 14 and under are not allowed even if accompanied by adults.
· 18+ – 18 years old and above only. Children aged 17 and under are not allowed even if accompanied by adults.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United Kingdom
British Board of Film Classification (BBFC)
· Uc – Especially suitable for pre-school children. The category is now deprecated, although older video works still in circulation may carry the label.
· U (Universal) - Suitable for all. A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over.
· PG (Parental Guidance) - General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. A PG film should not unsettle a child aged around eight or older.
· 12A - Cinema release suitable for 12 years and over. No one younger than 12 may see a 12A film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult.
· 12 – Video release suitable for 12 years and over. Video recordings with this rating are not to be supplied to anyone below that age.
· 15 - Suitable only for 15 years and older. No-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 film at the cinema or buy/rent a 15 rated video.
· 18 - Suitable only for adults. No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18 film at the cinema or buy/rent an 18 rated video.
· R18 (Restricted 18) - Adult works for licensed premises only. The R18 category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops. R18 videos may not be supplied by mail order.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United States
Motion Picture Association of America
· G (General Audiences) – All Ages Admitted.
· PG (Parental Guidance Suggested) – Some Material May Not Be Suitable For Children.
· PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned) – Some Material May Be Inappropriate For Children under 13.
· R (Restricted) – Under 17 Requires Accompanying Parent Or Adult Guardian.
· NC-17 (Adults Only) – No One 17 and Under Admitted.
A motion picture rating system is designated to classify films with regard to suitability for audiences in terms of issues such as sex, violence, substance abuse, profanity, impudence or other types of mature content. A particular issued rating can be called a certification, classification, certificate or rating. Ratings typically carry age recommendations in an advisory or restrictive capacity, and are often given in lieu of censorship. (Source: Wikipedia).
Ratings by Country
Argentina
National Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual Arts (INCAA)
· ATP: Suitable for all ages, ATP stands for "Apta (para) Todo Público", meaning "for all public"
· 13: Suitable for 13-year-olds and over. Children under the age of 13 admitted if accompanied by an adult.
· 16: Suitable for 16-year-olds and over.
· 18: Suitable for 18-year-olds and over.
· 18, conditional display: Restricted to specially licensed venues.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Australia
Australian Classification Board and Classification Review Board
· G – General. The content is very mild in impact.
· PG – Parental guidance recommended. The content is mild in impact. It is not recommended for viewing or playing by persons under 15 without guidance from parents or guardians.
· M – Recommended for mature audiences. Not recommended for children under 15 years old but not legally restricted. The content is moderate in impact.
· MA15+ – Mature Accompanied. Unsuitable for children younger than 15. Children younger than 15 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The content is strong in impact.
· R18+ – Restricted to 18 years and over. Adults only. The content is high in impact.
· X18+ – Restricted to 18 years and over. Films with this rating have pornographic content. Films classified as X18+ are banned from being sold or rented in all Australian states and are only legally available in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory.
· RC – Refused Classification. Banned from sale or hire in Australia and cannot be legally imported. Films are rated RC if their content is very high in impact and exceeds the guidelines.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Austria
Austrian Board of Media Classification (ABMC) for the Federal Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture
· Unrestricted – Released for all age groups
· 6+ – Released for children from age 6
· 10+ – Released for children from age 10
· 12+ – Released for children from age 12
· 14+ – Released from age 14
· 16+ – Released from age 16. Restricted classification.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Belgium
Inter-Community Commission for Film Rating
· CAT.1 – Suitable for all
· CAT.2 – Unsuitable for people younger than 16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brazil
Department of Justice, Rating, Titles and Qualification
· L: Livre para Todos os Públicos ("Free For All Public")
· 10: Não Recomendado para Menores de 10 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 10")
· 12: Não Recomendado para Menores de 12 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 12")
· 14: Não Recomendado para Menores de 14 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 14")
· 16: Não Recomendado para Menores de 16 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 16")
· 18: Não Recomendado para Menores de 18 Anos ("Not recommended for ages under 18")
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bulgaria
National Film Rating Committee
· A – Recommended for children
· B – Without age restrictions
· C – Not recommended for children under 12.
· D – Prohibited for persons under 16
· X – Prohibited for persons under 18
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Canada
Canadian Home Video Rating System (CHVRS)
Outside Quebec
· G – Suitable for viewing by all ages.
· PG – Parental guidance advised.
· 14A – Suitable for people 14 years of age or older. Those under 14 should view with an adult. No rental or purchase by those under 14. Parents cautioned. (Formerly "Adult Accompaniment (14)" in the Maritimes)
· 18A – Suitable for people 18 years of age or older. Those under 18 should view with an adult. No rental or purchase by those under 18. Parents strongly cautioned.
· R – Restricted to 18 years and over. No rental or purchase by those under 18. Content not suitable for minors.
· A – Adult. Film is not suitable for viewers under 18 years of age. (Formerly "Explicit Material (XXX)" in the Maritimes)
· E – Exempt
Inside Quebec
· G: Visa général (General Rating) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by persons of all ages.
· 13+: 13 ans et plus (13 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by children 13 years of age or over. Children under 13 may be admitted only if accompanied by an adult.
· 16+: 16 ans et plus (16 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by children 16 years of age or over.
· 18+: 18 ans et plus (18 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by adults 18 years of age or over.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chile
Council of Cinematographic Classification
· Todo Espectador – General Audience
· Inconveniente para menores de 7 años – Not suitable for children younger than 7 years
· Mayores de 14 años – Suitable for people aged 14 and older.
· Mayores de 18 años – Suitable for people aged 18 and older.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
China
China does not have a rating system. Only films that are passed as "suitable for all ages" are released although some exhibitors have introduced informal ratings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Colombia
Ministry of Culture
· T: For general audiences.
· 7: Advisory
· 12: Advisory
· 15: Restricted
· 18: Restricted
· X: Pornographic content.
· Prohibited: Contains elements that incite or advocate crime.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Denmark
Media Council for Children and Young People
· A Approval of the film for general admittance.
· 7 Approval of the film for general admittance, but not recommended for children younger than the age of 7.
· 11 Approval of the film for admittance of children from the age of 11.
· 15 Approval of the film for admittance of children from the age of 15.
· F Exempt from classification – only used on home video products (mostly documentaries, Danish stand-up shows and educational material)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Estonia
Child Welfare Act
· PERE – Family Film.
· L – Allowed to all.
· MS-6 – Not recommended for under 6.
· MS-12 – Not recommended for under 12.
· K-12 – Prohibited for under 12 unless accompanied by an adult.
· K-14 – Prohibited for under 14 unless accompanied by an adult.
· K-16 – Prohibited for under 16 unless accompanied by an adult.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finland
Finnish Centre for Media Education and Audiovisual Media
· S – For all ages.
· 7 – Over 7 years.
· 12 – Over 12 years.
· 16 – Over 16 year.
· 18 – Adults only.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
France
Ministry of Culture
· U – certificate authorising the screening of the film to all members of the public
· 12 – certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under twelve
· 16 – certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under sixteen
· 18 – certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under eighteen
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Germany
Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle der Filmwirtschaft (Voluntary Self-Regulation of the Film Industry, FSK)
· 0 Ohne Altersbeschränkung (FSK 0): no age restriction (white sign)
· 6 Freigegeben ab 6 Jahren (FSK 6): released to ages 6 and older (yellow sign)
· 12 Freigegeben ab 12 Jahren (FSK 12): released to ages 12 and older; children who are at least age 6 may be admitted with parental accompaniment (green sign)
· 16 Freigegeben ab 16 Jahren (FSK 16): released to ages 16 and older, nobody under this age admitted (blue sign)
· 18 Keine Jugendfreigabe (FSK 18): "no youth admitted", adults only. (red sign)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greece
Youth Committee
· Unrestricted – No restrictions
· 13 – Suitable for people aged 13 and above.
· 17 – Not permitted to young people under the age of 17.
· 18 – Not permitted to people under the age of 18.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hong Kong
Film Censorship Authority (FCA)
· I – suitable for all ages (circle sign)
· IIA – not suitable for children (square sign)
· IIB – not suitable for young persons and children
· III – for persons aged 18 or above only
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hungary
National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH)
· Green circle Universal, for all ages
· 6 Not recommended below age of 6
· 12 Not recommended below age of 12
· 16 Not recommended below age of 16
· 18 Not recommended below age of 18
· X Restricted below 18, for adults only
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Iceland
Smáís (See: Netherlands' Kijkwijzer)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
India
Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)
· U – Unrestricted Public Exhibition.
· UA – Unrestricted Public Exhibition but with a word of caution that Parental discretion required for children below 12 years.
· A – Restricted to adults.
· S – Restricted to any special class of persons.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Indonesia
Indonesian Film Censorship Board
· SU (Semua Umur): All ages
· R (Remaja): Teen
· D (Dewasa): Adult
· Limited (Terbatas): Passed uncut for film festival screenings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ireland
Irish Film Classification Office (IFCO)
· GGeneral home video.png General – Suitable for children of school going age.
· PGPG home video.png Parental Guidance – Suitable for children over the age of 8. Parental guidance is recommended for children under the age of 12.
· 12A12 Suitable for viewers of twelve and over. Younger children may be admitted to the film at cinemas if accompanied by an adult; on home video younger viewers are not permitted to purchase/rent.
· 15A15 Suitable for viewers of fifteen and over. Younger viewers may be admitted to the film at cinemas if accompanied by an adult; on home video younger viewers are not permitted to purchase/rent.
· 16 (cinema only) Suitable for viewers of sixteen and over. Younger viewers are not admitted.
· 1818 home video.png Suitable only for adults. Viewers under 18 are not admitted at cinemas or permitted to purchase/rent the video.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Italy
Committee for the Theatrical Review of the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities
· T (all): All ages admitted.
· VM14: Not suitable for children under 14.
· VM18: Not suitable for children under 18.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Japan
Eirin
· G: General, suitable for all ages
· PG-12: Parental guidance requested for young people under 12 years.
· R15+: No one under 15 admitted.
· R18+: No one under 18 admitted.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kazakhstan
Committee for Culture of the Ministry for Culture and Information
· К: Film is allowed for any audience.
· БА: Suitable for children over the age of 12.
· Б14: Supervision by parents recommended for children under the age of 14.
· Е16: Supervision by parents recommended for children under the age of 16.
· Е18: For viewers aged over 18.
· НА: For viewers aged over 21. Restricted to licensed venues between 10pm and 6am local time.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Latvia
Duty of the director or distributor
· U (universal audience) – Suitable for persons of all age groups
· 7+: Suitable for a person who has reached at least 7 years of age
· 12+: Suitable for a person who has reached at least 12 years of age
· 16+: Suitable for a person who has reached at least 16 years of age
· 18+: Not suitable for a minor (prohibited to people under 18)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Malaysia
Film Censorship Board (LPF)
· U (Umum) - No age limit.
· P13 (Penjaga) – Viewers under 13 years of age need parental/guardian supervision while viewing.
· 18 – For viewers aged 18 and above.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maldives
National Bureau of Classification (NBC)
· G – Suitable for all ages.
· PG – Parental Guidance.
· 12+ – For ages 12 and above.
· 15+ – Suitable for ages 15 and above.
· 18+ – Suitable for ages 18 and above.
· 18+R – Suitable for ages 18 and above. Restricted.
· PU – For Professional Use Only
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Malta
Film Board in accordance with the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts Act
· U (Universal) – Suitable for all.
· PG (Parental Guidance) – General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.
· 12A – Suitable for persons of 12 years and over: Provided that persons younger than 12 years may attend only when accompanied by an adult.
· 12 – Suitable only for persons of twelve years and over.
· 15 – Suitable for persons of fifteen years and over.
· 18 – Suitable only for persons of eighteen years and over.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mexico
The General Directorate of Radio, Television and Cinematography
· AA Informative-only rating: Understandable for children under 7 years.
· A Information-only rating: For all age groups.
· B Information-only rating: For adolescents 12 years and older.
· B-15 Information-only rating: Not recommended for children under 15.
· C Restrictive rating: For adults 18 and older.
· D Restrictive rating: Adult movies.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Netherlands
Netherlands Institute for the Classification of Audiovisual Media (NICAM)
· AL All ages.
· 6 Potentially harmful to children under 6 years.
· 9 Potentially harmful to children under 9 years.
· 12 Potentially harmful to children under 12 years; broadcasting is not allowed before 8:00 pm.
· 16 Potentially harmful to children under 16 years; broadcasting is not allowed before 10:00 pm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Zealand
Office of Film and Literature Classification
· G: Suitable for general audiences.
· PG: Parental guidance may be needed for younger viewers.
· M: Suitable for mature audiences 16 years and over.
· R13: Restricted to persons 13 years and over.
· R15: Restricted to persons 15 years and over.
· R16: Restricted to persons 16 years and over.
· R18: Restricted to persons 18 years and over.
· RP13: Children under age 13 are not admitted unless accompanied by a parent or an adult.
· RP16: Children under age 16 are not admitted unless accompanied by a parent or an adult.
· R: Restricted exclusively to a certain audience.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nigeria
The National Film and Video Censors
· G (Green Sign): Suitable for viewing by persons of all ages.
· PG (Green Sign): Parental Guidance advised.
· 12 (Yellow Sign): Not suitable for people under the age of 12.
· 12A (Yellow Sign): Not suitable for people under the age of 12. A child must be accompanied by an adult to view the film.
· 15 (Red Sign): Not suitable for persons under the age of 15.
· 18 (Red Sign): Not suitable for people under the 18.
· RE (Red Sign): Films which fall under this category are to be exhibited and distributed only in specially licensed premises.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Norway
The Norwegian Media Authority (Medietilsynet)
· A – Suitable for all
· 7 – 7 years (children from 4 years old accompanied by an adult)
· 11 – 11 years (children down to 8 years accompanied by an adult)
· 15 – 15 years (young down to 12 years accompanied by an adult)
· 18 – 18 (absolute lower limit)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philippines
Movie and Television Review and Classification Board
· G (General Audiences) – Viewers of all ages are admitted.
· PG (Parental Guidance Suggested) – Viewers below 13 years old must be accompanied by a parent or supervising adult.
· R-13 (Restricted-13) – Only viewers who are 13 years old and above can be admitted.
· R-16 (Restricted-16) – Only viewers who are 16 years old and above can be admitted.
· R-18 (Restricted-18) – Only viewers who are 18 years old and above can be admitted.
· X (Not For Public Exhibition) – "X-rated" films are not suitable for public exhibition.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Poland
Since 1989 there is no official classification system, with age ratings being self-prescriptive and set by the distributors.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portugal
Comissão de Classificação de Espectáculos of the Ministry of Culture
· Para todos os públicos – For all the public (especially designed for children under 3 years of age).
· M/3 Passed for viewers aged 3 and older.
· M/6 Passed for viewers aged 6 and older.
· M/12 Passed for viewers aged 12 and older.
· M/14 Passed for viewers aged 14 and older.
· M/16 Passed for viewers aged 16 and older.
· M/18 Passed for viewers aged 18 and older.
· P Special rating supplementary to the M/18 age rating denoting "pornography"
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Russia
· 0+ Фильм разрешён для показа в любой зрительской аудитории (Film allowed for any age) – All ages are admitted. No age restrictions.
· 6+ Фильм разрешён детям, достигшим 6 лет (Film for those above 6) – Unsuitable for children under 6.
· 12+ Детям до 12 лет фильм разрешён в сопровождении родителей (Film for those above 12) – Unsuitable for children under 12.
· 16+ Фильм разрешён детям старше 16 лет (Film for those above 16) – Unsuitable for children under 16.
· 18+ Фильм разрешён детям старше 18 лет (Film for those above 18) – Prohibited for children under 18.
· Фильмы, которым отказано в классификации (Refused classification) – Banned.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Singapore
Board of Film Censors (BFC)
· G: General – Suitable for all ages.
· PG: Parental Guidance – Suitable for all but parents should guide their young.
· PG13: Parental Guidance 13 – Suitable for persons aged 13 and above but parental guidance is advised for children below 13.
· NC16: No Children Under 16 – Suitable for persons aged 16 and above.
· M18: Mature 18 – Suitable for persons aged 18 and above.
· R21: Restricted 21 – Suitable for adults aged 21 and above.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Africa
Film and Publication Board
· A: Suitable for all.
· PG: Parental Guidance
· 7–9PG: Not suitable for children under the age of 7. Children aged 7–9 years old may not be admitted unless accompanied by an adult.
· 10: Not suitable for children under the age of 10.
· 10–12PG: Not suitable for children under the age of 10. Children aged 10–12 years old may not be admitted unless accompanied by an adult.
· 13: Not suitable for children under the age of 13.
· 16: Not suitable for persons under the age of 16.
· 18: Not suitable for persons under the age of 18.
· X18: No One Under 18 Admitted; restricted to licensed adult premises.
· XX: Must not be distributed or exhibited in public.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Korea
Korea Media Rating Board
· All (전체 관람가) – Suitable for all audiences.
· 12 (12세 이상 관람가) – Suitable for persons aged 12 years and over.
· 15 (15세 이상 관람가) – Suitable for persons aged 15 years and over.
· Teenager restricted (청소년 관람불가) – Prohibits children under 18.
· Restricted – Restricted to "special theaters".
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spain
ICAA
· APTA – General admission
· 7 – Not recommended for audiences under 7
· 12 – Not recommended for audiences under 12
· 16 – Not recommended for audiences under 16
· 18 – Not recommended for audiences under 18
· Película X – Prohibited for audiences under 18
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sweden
Statens Medieråd (Swedish Media Council)
· Btl (Barntillåten) – All ages.
· 7 – Children under the age of 7, who are accompanied by an adult (a person aged 18 or over), are admitted to films that have been passed for children from the age of 7.
· 11 – Children over the age of 7, who are accompanied by an adult, are admitted to films that have been passed for children from the age of 11.
· 15 – Children under the age of 15 are not admitted to any film that is "not approved" for viewing by children.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Switzerland
Switzerland has adopted Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle der Filmwirtschaft (FSK), Germany's classification body (See: Germany FSK)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taiwan
The Government Information Office (GIO)
· General audiences category (普遍級(普)) – (G) Viewing is permitted for audiences of all ages.
· Protected category (保護級(護)) – (P) Viewing is not permitted for children under six; children viewers between six and 11 shall be accompanied and given guidance by parents, teachers, seniors, or adult relatives or friends.
· Parental guidance category (輔導級(輔)) – (PG) Viewing is not permitted for children under 12; attention and guidance from parents, teachers, or seniors are required for adolescent viewers between 12 and 17.
· Restricted category (限制級(限)) – (R) Viewing is not permitted for those under 18.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thailand
Film and Video Act of 2007
· P – Educational.
· G – General Audience.
· 13 – Suitable for viewers aged 13 years and over.
· 15 – Suitable for viewers aged 15 years and over.
· 18 – Suitable for viewers aged 18 years and over.
· 20 – Suitable for viewers aged 20 years and over. Restricted.
· Banned – Films that are not allowed to screen publicly in Thailand.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Turkey
Evaluation and Classification Board of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism
· 7+ – Suitable for viewers aged 7 and over.
· 7A – Viewers under the age of 7 may watch with accompanying family mambers.
· 13+ – Suitable for viewers aged 13 and over.
· 13A – Viewers under the age of 13 may watch with accompanying family members.
· 15+ – Suitable for viewers aged 15 and over.
· 15A – Viewers under the age of 15 may watch with accompanying family members.
· 18+ – Suitable for viewers aged 18 and over.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United Arab Emirates
The Ministry of Information of the United Arab Emirates
· G (General admission) – All ages are allowed.
· PG13 – All ages allowed but children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
· PG15 – All ages allowed but children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
· 15+ – 15 years old and above only. Children aged 14 and under are not allowed even if accompanied by adults.
· 18+ – 18 years old and above only. Children aged 17 and under are not allowed even if accompanied by adults.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United Kingdom
British Board of Film Classification (BBFC)
· Uc – Especially suitable for pre-school children. The category is now deprecated, although older video works still in circulation may carry the label.
· U (Universal) - Suitable for all. A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over.
· PG (Parental Guidance) - General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. A PG film should not unsettle a child aged around eight or older.
· 12A - Cinema release suitable for 12 years and over. No one younger than 12 may see a 12A film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult.
· 12 – Video release suitable for 12 years and over. Video recordings with this rating are not to be supplied to anyone below that age.
· 15 - Suitable only for 15 years and older. No-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 film at the cinema or buy/rent a 15 rated video.
· 18 - Suitable only for adults. No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18 film at the cinema or buy/rent an 18 rated video.
· R18 (Restricted 18) - Adult works for licensed premises only. The R18 category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops. R18 videos may not be supplied by mail order.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United States
Motion Picture Association of America
· G (General Audiences) – All Ages Admitted.
· PG (Parental Guidance Suggested) – Some Material May Not Be Suitable For Children.
· PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned) – Some Material May Be Inappropriate For Children under 13.
· R (Restricted) – Under 17 Requires Accompanying Parent Or Adult Guardian.
· NC-17 (Adults Only) – No One 17 and Under Admitted.