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Applications open for the Berlin Artist-In-Residency Program (Germany)

Deadline: 03-Feb-2026

The Berlin Artist-In-Residency (BERLIN AiR) Program 2026 offers German film professionals opportunities to develop projects and gain international experience in Guanajuato, Mumbai, Paris, or Thessaloniki. The fully supported residencies provide housing, travel, and stipends, connecting filmmakers with local industry professionals while enhancing their skills and professional networks.

Opportunities for German Film Professionals

The BERLIN AiR Program provides German filmmakers, primarily directors and scriptwriters, with residencies abroad to develop new projects, gain professional skills, and connect with international film industries. Each residency offers a unique cultural and professional experience, depending on the host city.

Available Residency Locations and Details

1. Berlin-Guanajuato, Mexico – Two Months

  • Duration: Mid-July to Mid-September 2026

  • Focus: Develop a new project and skills, learn about the Mexican film industry

  • Benefits: Economy-class airfare, housing for two months

  • Opportunities: Meet producers and professionals, gain insight into the Mexican production landscape

2. Berlin-Mumbai, India – Three Months

  • Duration: Up to three months

  • Focus: Develop a new project and skills, learn about the Mumbai film industry

  • Benefits: Transportation, housing for three months, monthly allowance of €1,200

  • Opportunities: Industry networking, insight into Indian production practices

3. Berlin-Paris, France – Three Months

  • Duration: Three months

  • Focus: Develop a new project and skills, learn about the French film industry

  • Benefits: Monthly allowance of €1,500, housing at Cité des Arts (€550/month to be paid by participant)

  • Opportunities: Access to French producers and film professionals, networking

4. Berlin-Thessaloniki, Greece – Three Months

  • Duration: Three months

  • Focus: Develop a new project and skills, learn about the Greek film industry

  • Benefits: Transportation, housing for three months, monthly allowance of €800

  • Opportunities: Engage with local producers, gain insight into Greek production landscape

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Be German film professionals, primarily directors or scriptwriters

  • Be permanent residents of Germany

  • Have a proven professional background in film and television

  • Have completed or worked on at least one film of a minimum of 30 minutes in any genre or format, supported by:
    • Film funds
    • Professionally recognized organizations
    • Broadcasters
    • Awards or recognition locally or internationally

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted in English and include:

  • Completed application form

  • Motivation statement explaining why the applicant wants to participate in the chosen residency

  • CV and filmography

  • Written project description and concept (maximum five pages)

  • Example of previous work (e.g., Vimeo link)

Why Participate in BERLIN AiR

  • Gain international experience in key film production hubs

  • Develop new projects with professional guidance

  • Build industry connections with producers, filmmakers, and cultural institutions

  • Enhance skills in project development, production, and storytelling

  • Experience cultural exchange and broaden professional perspectives

Tips for Applicants

  • Provide a clear and compelling project concept

  • Include a high-quality example of previous work

  • Highlight prior professional achievements and awards

  • Submit all materials in English and within the guidelines

  • Tailor motivation statements to the specific residency location

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is eligible to apply?

German film professionals, primarily directors and scriptwriters, who are permanent residents of Germany and have completed at least one recognized film of 30 minutes or more.

2. How long are the residencies?

Residency durations vary:

  • Berlin-Guanajuato: 2 months

  • Berlin-Mumbai: up to 3 months

  • Berlin-Paris: 3 months

  • Berlin-Thessaloniki: 3 months

3. What costs are covered?

Airfare, housing, and monthly allowances are provided depending on the residency location.

4. Can multiple residencies be applied for?

Yes, but applicants must submit a separate application for each location.

5. In what language must applications be submitted?

All applications must be submitted in English.

6. What should the project submission include?

A detailed project description (max five pages), motivation letter, CV-filmography, and an example of previous work.

7. Are there financial obligations for the applicant?

Some residencies (e.g., Paris) require participants to pay housing costs; others provide full coverage including allowances.

Conclusion

The BERLIN AiR Program 2026 provides German filmmakers with unparalleled opportunities to develop new projects, gain international exposure, and strengthen professional networks across Mexico, India, France, and Greece. This program is ideal for directors and scriptwriters seeking to expand their skills and engage with global film industries.

For more information, visit BERLIN AiR.