The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has asked filmmakers and production houses to submit only complete and final versions of films for certification. In an advisory dated October 26, 2026, the board also clarified that announced release dates will not be considered a basis for expedited certification and warned producers against accepting film titles as final before obtaining certification.
The advisory, issued under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, lays down five key guidelines for applicants seeking certification for films and other materials.
As per the first directive, the films submitted for examination should be in their complete and final form in all respects. This includes the final graphics, titles, credits, subtitles, disclaimers, censor certificate slate, background score, music and sound mix. Any accessibility features required for the theatrical performance, such as closed captioning, subtitles for the hearing impaired and audio description, should also be included where applicable.
The CBFC added that only the version of the film certified by the board can be screened in theatres.
CBFC says that film titles are not final till certification
In another key directive, the board clarified that film titles mentioned by producers or applicants in their certification applications, including titles in trailers, teasers and promotional materials, should not be considered final merely because an application has been submitted or registered.
The advisory states that the titles remain subject to investigation, review and amendment by the Inquiry or Revision Committee under Section 5B(1) of the Cinematograph Act, 1952 and Rule 25 of the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024.
Producers and applicants are advised against publicizing or committing to a final film title prior to certification.
No unfinished prints or work-in-progress submissions
The board has also cautioned filmmakers against submitting incomplete or work-in-progress prints. Applications with temporary or placeholder graphics, scratched or temporary scores, or missing accessibility elements may be considered non-compliant.
Such requests may result in delays, return of applications or even rejection.
The CBFC clarified that an application will be considered complete only after all required documents are submitted and the prescribed formalities are completed. The date on which the application is approved will be treated as the date of its receipt, and the application will be queued for examination accordingly.
Release dates will not ensure fast certification
Addressing concerns about certification timelines, the CBFC said the proposed or announced release date of a film, including the launch date of its trailer or teaser, will not be taken into account while processing certification applications.
The board emphasized that the certification will follow the prescribed procedures and timelines, irrespective of the release dates announced by the manufacturers.
It further states that sufficient time is required for examination, review and certification, including any revisions, reductions or revisions directed by the Examination or Revision Committee. Applicants should not expect the Board to shorten statutory or procedural deadlines because of a self-imposed release schedule.
CBFC advises manufacturers to plan for certification in advance
As its final directive, the Board has advised all producers and applicants to submit certification applications well in advance of their scheduled release dates. They are asked to keep in mind the time required for examination, committee review and compliance with any directions issued by the Board.
The advisory, signed by CBFC Chief Executive Officer Rajendra Singh, concluded by urging applicants to cooperate with the Board and strictly adhere to the Cinematograph Act, 1952, Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, and other applicable guidelines.
The board said such compliance would help in the smooth running of its statutory functions and ensure an efficient and timely certification process.