1.   VNIFF accepts films of all lengths, genres, and formats, including narrative, documentary, experimental, animation, and hybrid works.

    •    Submissions must fit into one of the following categories: Professional Filmmaker, Postmodernist, Art Youth, Uncategorizable, or AI Pilot.
    •    Non-English films must include English subtitles.
    •    Work-in-progress films are accepted, but final versions must be submitted before the festival screening.

    •    AI films must be submitted in AI Pilot catagory. Submission in all other categories will be disqualified automatically.

2. Submission Guidelines
    •    All submissions must be made through FilmFreeway.
    •    Each filmmaker may submit multiple films, but each requires a separate submission fee.
    •    We do not accept physical media—all submissions must be digital screeners.
    •    Refunds will not be granted under any circumstances.

3. Screening & Selection Process
    •    VNIFF’s programming team reviews all submissions and makes final selections.
    •    Selection is based on artistic merit, originality, and alignment with the festival’s curatorial vision.
    •    Official selections will be notified via email and FilmFreeway.
    •    Submitting does not guarantee selection, and the festival is not obligated to provide feedback on non-selected films.

4. Exhibition Format
    •    Selected films must be provided in DCP, ProRes, or high-quality digital format for screening.
    •    The festival reserves the right to adjust screening schedules, venues, or formats as necessary.

5. Rights & Permissions
    •    By submitting, filmmakers grant VNIFF the right to screen their film at the festival.
    •    Filmmakers retain full ownership of their work.
    •    VNIFF may use clips, stills, and promotional materials from selected films for marketing and publicity purposes.
    •    The filmmaker warrants that they have all necessary rights, permissions, and clearances for exhibition.

6. Liability & Agreement
    •    VNIFF is not responsible for any copyright infringement, legal claims, or damages related to submitted films.
    •    By submitting, you agree to all terms and conditions outlined here and acknowledge that submission fees are non-refundable.
    •    The festival reserves the right to make changes to the rules, schedule, and event structure at its discretion.