Submit Your Film

LEGAL STANDARDS

“Protecting the integrity of cinematic expression through uncompromising transparency and institutional ethics.”

OFFICIAL GOVERNANCE

PRIVACY POLICY

INFORMATION COLLECTION

USAIFA collects data through three primary channels to facilitate global cinematic excellence:

REGISTRATION DATA

Account credentials, identity verification, and professional biographical information provided during the
entry process.

SUBMISSION MATERIALS

Digital masters, screenplays, promotional assets, and
intellectual property documentation required for
adjudication.

COOKIES & TRACKING

We utilize advanced telemetry and session identifiers to
optimize screening performance and ensure portal
security.

TRANSACTION HISTORY

Secure processing of entry fees and ticket procurement
via encrypted third-party financial gateways.

USE OF INFORMATION

Adjudication

Processing creative works for
professional evaluation by our
international jury panels and
selection committees.

Communications

Essential updates regarding entry
status, event logistics, and official
archival announcements.

Marketing Opt-Out

Promotional materials regarding
future cycles may be sent; users
retain the right to opt-out via the
Privacy Center at any time.

DATA SHARING & SECURITY

RESTRICTED SHARING

We share sensitive information only with vetted entities
necessary for operation:

  • Jury Members (subject to strict individual NDAs)
  • Official Sponsors (for award fulfillment only)
  • Technical Service Providers (under confidentiality)

ARCHIVAL PROTOCOL

Assets are protected via AES-256 encryption. Our high-
security digital vault ensures that film masters are stored
on isolated, air-gapped segments during the final phase of
judging to prevent leaks.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

TERMS OF SERVICE

01. SUBMISSION ELIGIBILITY

Mandatory Requirements:

  • Entrants must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Submissions must represent original creative works.
  • International residency is permitted for all open categories.

02. Ownership Warranty

Ownership Warranty:

Entrants warrant they are the sole creators or authorized presentatives with the full legal capacity to enter the work and have cleared all third-party rights (music, likeness, scripts).

03. Submission Format:

File Requirements:

  • All entries must be submitted in digital format.
  • Accepted file types include JPEG, PNG, MP4, and PDF.
  • Maximum file size per submission is 100MB.

04. PRIZE DISTRIBUTION

Awards and Recognition:

  • Winners will be notified via email within 30 days post-judging.
  • Prizes include cash awards, trophies, and publication opportunities.
  • All decisions by the judging panel are final and binding.

05. ENTRY PROCEDURES

How to Enter:

  • Complete the online entry form accurately.
  • Upload all required materials before the deadline.
  • Pay the non-refundable entry fee as specified.

06. JUDGING CRITERIA

Evaluation Standards:

  • Creativity and originality will be heavily weighed.
  • Technical skill and craftsmanship are considered.
  • Relevance to the theme enhances scoring potential.

CODE OF CONDUCT

We maintain a professional environment of mutual respect. Harassment, unprofessional communication with staff/jury, or disruptive on-site behavior will result in immediate disqualification and revocation of credentials.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Filmmakers retain 100% of the copyright. By submitting, you grant USAIFA a non-exclusive, limited license to screen the work during official festival dates and use snippets for promotional archival broadcasts.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

USAIFA IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY TECHNICAL FAILURES, LOSS OF DIGITAL ASSETS DURING TRANSMISSION, OR UNAUTHORIZED THIRD-PARTY ACCESS BEYOND OUR REASONABLE SECURITY MEASURES.TOTAL LIABILITY IS LIMITED TO THE AMOUNT OF THE ENTRY FEE PAID.

GOVERNING LAW

These terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, USA. Any disputes shall be resolved exclusively through binding arbitration in the County of Los Angeles.

INTERNATIONAL COMPLIANCE

We adhere to the highest international standards for digital rights and data protection, ensuring your creative work is handled with institutional integrity across all global borders.

GDPR COMPLIANT CCPA AUTHORIZED DMCA PROTECTED

LEGAL INQUIRIES

Our specialized legal counsel is available for detailed clarification regarding film rights, data handling, and archival protocols.