To better reflect the world in which we live and to ensure more global filmmakers have their vital films seen and heard, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has enacted new eligibility rules for the Academy Award for the Best International Feature Film (IFF).
In 2025, the Academy created a new IFF rule allowing filmmakers with refugee or asylum status to be represented by a country other than their own. This gives filmmakers who may face censorship or oppression in their home countries a new pathway for their films to gain recognition by the Academy and the broader filmgoing public.
In 2026, to further widen the ability for more films to qualify for IFF consideration, the Academy approved a new rule to allow non-English language films to qualify by winning a top juried award at the following international film festivals: Berlin International Film Festival (Golden Bear for Best Film), Busan International Film Festival (Busan Award – Best Film Award), Cannes Film Festival (Palme d'Or), Sundance Film Festival (World Cinema Grand Jury Prize), Toronto International Film Festival (Platform Award), and Venice International Film Festival (Golden Lion). This rule further helps global filmmakers have their voices amplified based entirely on artistic merit.
Additionally, in 2026, the Academy enacted a rule stating that the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film is now officially credited to the film and its director, rather than the submitting country or region. This is designed to center the artists who make movies rather than a country or region.
As with all awards rules, the Academy will continue to review these regulations to ensure we best serve our global community of filmmakers. The Academy remains deeply committed to elevating the voices and work of filmmakers worldwide.