19th Mumbai International Film Festival 2026 Opens for Entries with Expanded Categories

The 19th edition of the Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) has officially opened its call for entries, inviting filmmakers from around the world to submit their works in documentary, short fiction, and animation categories.

Organized under the aegis of India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the festival remains one of the most prominent platforms dedicated to non-feature filmmaking.

According to official regulations, films produced between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2025, are eligible for submission. The competition is divided into two main sections: the International Competition, open to filmmakers worldwide, and the National Competition, reserved exclusively for Indian citizens.

A total of 14 awards will be presented across various categories. Major highlights include Best Documentary Film, Best Short Fiction Film, and Best Animation Film in the international segment. The top award carries a cash prize of INR 10 lakhs, along with the prestigious Golden Conch.

The national segment will also recognize excellence across several categories, including awards for debut directors and student filmmakers.

Technical achievements will be honored through awards for Best Cinematography, Best Editing, and Best Sound Design. Additionally, a special thematic award will be presented for short films centered on “Viksit Bharat / 150 Years of Vande Mataram / Bharat@2026.”

Submissions must be made exclusively through the FilmFreeway platform. Entry fees vary depending on the category and applicant origin. International filmmakers are required to pay USD 50, while Indian filmmakers must pay INR 1,500 for International Competition entries and INR 1,000 for National Competition entries.

The deadline for submissions is April 7, 2026, with all required documents to be submitted by April 13, 2026. Selected films will be screened in DCP format, and filmmakers whose works are chosen will receive travel and hospitality support.

In addition to the main competition, the festival will feature several non-competitive sections, including MIFF Prism, retrospectives, and curated special packages, offering additional exposure to noteworthy films.

Organizers have emphasized that films previously submitted or screened in earlier editions will not be eligible. All entries must strictly comply with technical and copyright requirements. Final selections will be made by a designated committee, and jury decisions will be final.

Widely regarded as a leading global platform for documentary and short filmmaking, MIFF continues its legacy of promoting cinematic excellence and fostering international creative exchange.

Filmmakers and interested participants are encouraged to review the official guidelines and submit their entries before the deadline.

For full submission guidelines, refer to the attached official regulations document.