Beldocs 2027: International Documentary, Hybrid Film and XR Submissions Open Until 20 January
Belgrade's Beldocs International Documentary Film Festival will hold its twentieth edition from 21 to 27 April 2027. The open call welcomes documentary and hybrid films, with an explicit mention of XR projects and serious video games. Entries are open through FilmFreeway. The regular deadline is 6 December 2026 for a US$30 fee, and the final deadline is 20 January 2027 for US$35.
Which film and immersive programmes qualify?
The International Competition is for feature nonfiction of 45 minutes or more, while its Short Competition accepts films up to 45 minutes. The Meteors and Fireworks strands foreground experimental nonfiction and genre-crossing work. Beldocs Teen also specifically accepts XR projects. A VR or interactive author should not assume eligibility for every category solely from the general invitation; the technical programme and presentation format should be confirmed with the festival.
Costs, deadlines and premieres
The US$25 early-bird period ended on 20 October 2026, before this article. Current submissions cost US$30 through 6 December, then US$35 until 20 January 2027; FilmFreeway Gold members are offered a 10% discount. Films must have been completed after 1 January 2026. International and short competition programmes impose premiere conditions, so check whether previous online screenings disqualify the work. The organiser intends to notify selected artists by 20 February.
Beldocs and rights clearance
Beldocs is a long-running festival and industry forum based in Serbia, presenting nonfiction cinema to audiences and film professionals. Its own website defines competition programmes and links the FilmFreeway application. Entrants must have rights for archival footage, soundtracks, interview recordings, software and interactive assets. Entry fees do not guarantee selection or the repayment of travel, installation or equipment costs.
Official information
Source checked on 23 October 2026. Please confirm all deadlines, fees, eligibility and rights against the current official form.