The International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) has announced its call for entries, inviting filmmakers from around the world, including Africa, to submit their documentary films for consideration in the upcoming edition of the festival.
The IDFA made the announcement in an Instagram post, inviting filmmakers to submit their projects. The post read: “Filmmakers! Mark your agendas for the first upcoming deadline for film entries: April 24. We are looking forward to your entries!”
The festival, which will take place from 12 to 23 November 2025, invites filmmakers from around the world to submit their documentary films, performances, and new media projects.
To be eligible, films must have been completed after 11 July 2024. All submissions must be made via the IDFA registration page, with a completed entry form, an English-subtitled screener, and payment of the entry fee.
Filmmakers can submit their films in three rounds, with varying entry fees. The early entry deadline is set for 24 April 2025, with entry fees ranging from €25 for student films and shorts under 40 minutes, to €45 for films 40 minutes or longer.
The second entry deadline is 28 May 2025, with entry fees increasing to €35 for shorts under 40 minutes and €65 for films 40 minutes or longer. Student films remain at €25.
The final entry deadline is 10 July 2025, with entry fees set at €45 for shorts under 40 minutes and €85 for films 40 minutes or longer. Student films again remain at €25.
In addition to the main festival program, IDFA will also present its New Media program, IDFA DocLab. Details about IDFA DocLab, including submission guidelines and deadlines, will be announced later.
Each year, IDFA welcomes over 295,000 attendees and more than 3,500 documentary film professionals from over 100 countries. The festival takes place in more than 40 venues across Amsterdam, including the Tuschinski Theatre and EYE Filmmuseum.
In addition to its international film program, the IDFA also hosts debates, forums, and workshops. The festival is held annually in November.
