San Sebastián International Film Festival

About San Sebastián International Film Festival

The 74th edition of the San Sebastián International Film Festival (Donostia Zinemaldia) is a major event held in September featuring over thirty distinct sections and competitions. It operates as an all-year-round initiative called Z365 that combines film screening with talent

Awards this festival can qualify you for

• BIFA Best Film · Best British Independent Film

  In-person official selection at this BIFA Section A festival is sufficient (one Section A festival confers eligibility; the alternative is two Section B British festivals). No win required. Online-only screenings do not qualify. British independent film (BFI cultural test). 2026 window: 1 Nov 2025 to 30 Nov 2026.

• BIFA Documentary · Best British Documentary

  In-person official selection at this BIFA Section A festival qualifies a British independent documentary (BIFA docs use the same routes as features: one Section A festival, or two Section B British festivals). No win required. Online-only screenings do not qualify. 2026 window: 1 Nov 2025 to 30 Nov 2026.

• BIFA Short · Best British Short Film

  In-person official selection is sufficient; no win or competition placement required. BIFA Short Section A: one Section A festival confers eligibility. British production, under 40 minutes.

• Oscar Documentary Feature · Documentary Feature Film

  Must win the Award for Documentary Film. Then submit separately to Academy.

• Oscar Live Action Short · Live Action Short Film

  Must win the Award for Best Short Film.

San Sebastián International Film Festival submission FAQ

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