FEST New Directors New Films 2027: Animation, Shorts and Features, €14 Regular Short Film Entry
The 23rd FEST – New Directors New Films festival in Portugal welcomes film submissions for its 19–27 June 2027 edition. International filmmakers can enter films across the programme's competitive sections, including shorts, features and work with creative new cinematic approaches. The regular submission period is already running as of 22 October 2026. It ends on 26 January 2027 at 23:59 GMT, charging €14 for short films and €20 for features. A final extended window runs until 24 February 2027 at higher rates.
Which films qualify, and the subtitle rule
The official FEST 2027 regulations state that films must have been completed after 1 January 2026 and must not have been screened in earlier FEST editions. Entries are submitted online through the festival's approved platforms. Every film needs English subtitles even when the dialogue is in another language; entrants should not assume that a Portuguese original is automatically exempt. The organiser asks applicants to keep screener links active through 31 May 2027, and delivery of exhibition copies may be required by 10 May.
Fee tiers and a specific exemption
The early-bird window ended on 12 October. For submissions from 13 October 2026 to 26 January 2027, the official fees are €14 for shorts and €20 for features. From 27 January to 24 February the fees increase to €20 and €30 respectively. The rules exempt majority-Portuguese productions from the charge; simply being in the Portuguese language or a Portuguese-speaking country does not confer that exemption. Other exceptional waivers can apply to productions from countries facing specified sanctions or transfer obstacles, with organiser confirmation.
How to prepare for selection
Select a section appropriate for the film's format and subject and prepare a reliable preview link, creator credits, synopsis, production year, subtitles and rights-clearance documents. Submission is not an assurance of exhibition or a meeting with an international buyer. FEST integrates its screenings with education, networking and professional encounters, so filmmakers should assess whether travel to Portugal is feasible if selected. Travel, visas or accommodation should not be treated as included merely because entry fees were paid.
An established Portuguese film event
FEST takes place in Espinho and has a multi-edition record of presenting new directors while running workshops, training and industry activity. Its official site gives both the 2027 dates and a separate, more detailed Rules and Regulations page. The authoritative booking route starts on site.fest.pt, and organisers can be contacted through films@fest.pt about ambiguous eligibility or fee exemptions.
Official rules and application
Information verified on 22 October 2026. Confirm all current dates, conditions, fees and exhibition or rights terms with the organiser before applying.