The 16th International Short Film Festival of Cyprus has extended its submission deadline following increased interest, giving filmmakers a few additional days to complete their entries. The new final deadline is set for 10 May 2026.
The open call, launched by the Department of Contemporary Culture of the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Culture and the Rialto Theatre, invites filmmakers from Cyprus and abroad to submit short films across a range of categories.
Extended deadline and submission details
Originally scheduled to close on 2 May, the late submission window has now been extended to 10 May. This marks the final opportunity for filmmakers to submit their work for consideration.
Submissions must be completed online via dedicated platforms, with full regulations and application details available on the festival’s official website.
The festival accepts short films with a maximum duration of 30 minutes. Eligible genres include fiction, documentary, experimental, student productions and animation. The aim of the festival is to promote the art of cinema through a diverse international programme, while also highlighting filmmakers who demonstrate a strong and creative use of cinematic language.
National and international competition
Selected Cypriot entries will compete in both the national and international sections. Cypriot directors, whether based in Cyprus or abroad, are eligible to participate, provided their films are Cyprus premieres.
The international competition section continues to hold particular significance. Since 2019, the festival has been part of the European Film Academy’s network of partner festivals, with the authority to nominate one short film for the European Film Awards.
Festival dates
The 16th International Short Film Festival of Cyprus will take place at the Rialto Theatre in Limassol from 10 to 16 October 2026.
With the extended deadline now in place, filmmakers are given one last chance to submit their work and be part of one of Cyprus’s key cinematic events.
