We’re excited to announce that submissions are now open for IFFLA 2026!
Marking its 24th anniversary, IFFLA 2026 will take place April 23-26 in Los Angeles.
We’re inviting filmmakers to submit their short films for consideration for the IFFLA 2026 Shorts competition category.
Early Bird Deadline: Sun November 23, 2025
Submission fee: $40
With Student discount: $30
Final Deadline: Sun January 4, 2026
Submission fee: $55
With Student discount: $40
Please note: selections for the IFFLA 2026 Features category will be curated by invitation-only.
Eligible in the Shorts category are:
- Narrative, documentary or animated films, with a running time of less than 40 minutes
- From India, the greater South Asian subcontinent and its diasporas (irrespective of theme)
- By international filmmakers worldwide (with a prevalent South Asian focus)
- Films with key creatives of South Asian descent (defined here as director, writer, producer, or lead cast) are also eligible
- South Asia defined here as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
- Los Angeles premiere status is strongly preferred, but is not required
- Films must have been completed in 2024 or later
- Films must not be available online or on streaming services, on or before the festival dates
Please be sure to read the complete Submission Rules and Terms prior to submitting your film.
To begin the application process, please visit our page on FilmFreeway.
For Programming questions, please contact IFFLA Programming Coordinator: Anna Li, ali@indianfilmfestival.org
We look forward to watching your work!
IFFLA Programming team
