Traditionally, 6 countries are automatically pre-qualified for the Grand Final. The so-called 'Big 5' — France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom — and the host country. The remaining countries will take part in one of the two Semi-Finals. From each Semi-Final, the best 10 will proceed to the Grand Final.

Why do some countries automatically qualify for Eurovision?

The UK automatically qualifies for the final of Eurovision because it is one of the song contest's “big five” nations, alongside Italy, Germany, France and Spain. These countries bypass the semi-final stage alongside the host nation's act, meaning the Netherlands gets the sixth slot this year.

Can any country participate in Eurovision?

Participation in the contest is primarily open to all broadcasters with active membership of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). To become an active member of the EBU, a broadcaster has to be from a country which is covered by the European Broadcasting Area or a member state of the Council of Europe.