VISAFF celebrates stories usually not represented by mainstream cinema or contemporary Bollywood film formulas. Features, shorts and documentaries, all chosen to engage, educate and inspire audiences by promoting free expression, cross-cultural interactions and understanding, and combating intolerance and stereotypes.

VISAFF originated in 2008 to "bridge the gap" between South Asian talent and mainstream audiences by connecting directors, actors, producers, community organizations, corporate brands and South Asian cinephiles.

The festival is committed to promoting diverse stories of South Asians through films from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Afghanistan and the global South Asian Diaspora.