Open call: 2026 Pro Helvetia residency programme

The programme allows selected artists and cultural practitioners to spend up to three months in Switzerland or in regions served by Pro Helvetia’s liaison offices.

The residencies are designed to provide time and space for reflection, experimentation and collaboration. While some residencies may result in public presentations or open studios, the programme primarily prioritises artistic process and research rather than production.

Programme overview

• Residency duration: Up to three months
• Location: Switzerland, or regions covered by Pro Helvetia’s liaison offices
• Start period: Residencies take place the year following selection
• Application window: Annually from 1 January to 1 March

Who can apply

Based in Switzerland:

• Artists and cultural practitioners (individuals or artist duos) active in disciplines supported by Pro Helvetia may apply for residencies in the regions of the liaison offices.

Based in liaison office regions:

• Artists and cultural practitioners (individuals or artist duos) permanently resident in eligible regions may apply for a residency in Switzerland.

Eligible regions include:

• West Africa
• Central Africa
• East Africa
• Southern Africa
• Arab region
• East Asia
• South America
• South Asia and Vietnam

A full list of eligible countries is provided by Pro Helvetia here.

What the residency supports

The residency programme typically includes:

• Accommodation
• Travel costs
• Daily allowances
• Professional guidance from a local cultural practitioner (coach)
• Access to a workspace (on request)
• Contribution towards production or material costs (on request)

Artists with childcare responsibilities may apply for additional support of up to CHF 1,000 per month to cover childcare costs or travel expenses for children and, where necessary, a carer. Applicants must submit a detailed budget in advance.

Selection criteria

Applications are assessed on the basis of:

• Permanent residence in an eligible region and active engagement in the local cultural scene
• A strong portfolio and demonstrable professional experience
• A clear professional interest in the selected destination and its cultural context
• A project or research proposal that encourages exchange between Switzerland and the applicant’s country of residence
• Sufficient knowledge of English or one of the Swiss national languages to ensure effective communication

Application requirements

Applications must be submitted in English and include:

• Title and brief description of the proposed project or research
• Motivation outlining professional interest in the chosen destination
• Preferred length of stay and selected location
• Curriculum vitae
• Portfolio of relevant work

Exclusions

• Applicants from countries outside Pro Helvetia’s liaison office regions are not eligible.
• Applications from individuals enrolled in formal education or training programmes, including university or basic training, will not be considered.

Key dates

• Applications open: 1 January
• Submission deadline: 1 March, 23:59 (CET)
• Decision notification: Within four months
• Residency start: From the following year

Additional information

Pro Helvetia does not take responsibility for visa approvals for artists, accompanying children, partners, family members or carers. Applicants are advised to consider visa requirements independently when applying.

View the original call here.