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Applications open for Residency Program (Switzerland)

Deadline: 01-Mar-2026

Pro Helvetia invites applications for its Residency Program to support Swiss artists and cultural practitioners across all disciplines. The program promotes contemporary Swiss art, linguistic and cultural exchange, and international dissemination. Funding covers travel, accommodation, production costs, and professional coaching, with priority given to projects of nationwide relevance, sustainability, and diversity.

Overview of the Residency Program

Pro Helvetia’s Residency Program supports Swiss artists and cultural practitioners in developing new works, fostering exchanges, and promoting Swiss art internationally. The program emphasizes:

  • Contemporary Swiss art and cultural production

  • Diversity and inclusivity

  • Creation of new artistic works

  • Strengthening exchange between Switzerland’s linguistic regions

  • Dissemination of Swiss art abroad

  • International cultural exchange

Who is Eligible?

  • Applicants: Swiss citizens or permanent residents regularly active in Switzerland

  • Groups or Institutions: Independent entities with a sustained presence and production in Switzerland

  • Artist Types: Individual artists or artist duos

  • Projects must have a clear connection to Switzerland and nationwide significance

  • Applicants must demonstrate strong professional interest in the destination and propose a project that engages with the local cultural field

  • Sufficient knowledge of English or the relevant local language is required for effective communication

Funding Details

  • Financial contributions may cover:

    • Accommodation and travel costs

    • Daily allowances

    • Professional coaching by a local cultural practitioner

    • Access to a workstation, if requested

    • Production or material costs related to the project

  • Childcare Support: Up to CHF 1,000 per month, subject to detailed budgeting

  • Projects must demonstrate sustainable planning, proportional costs, and potential lasting impact

  • Priority is given to projects demonstrating:

    • Professional competence and independence

    • Social and thematic relevance

    • Commitment to diversity and ecological responsibility

Nationwide Relevance Criteria

  • Regular involvement in nationally recognized institutions

  • Exceptional potential for emerging practitioners

  • Significant contribution to Swiss cultural production and dissemination

  • Strengthening exchange between Switzerland’s linguistic regions

How to Apply / How It Works

  1. Prepare Application – Include:

    • Project title and brief description

    • Motivation outlining professional interest in the destination

    • Desired length of stay and chosen location

    • CV and portfolio

  2. Submit Application – Applications must be submitted in English via the official platform

  3. Application Limits – Up to two applications may be submitted per call for liaison office residencies, but only one may be approved

  4. Selection Process – Applications are evaluated based on professional competence, project relevance, sustainability, and potential impact

  5. Decision Notification – Decisions communicated within four months of submission

  6. Project Start – Eligible to begin in the following year

  • Note: Pro Helvetia does not handle visa approvals for artists or accompanying persons

Common Mistakes and Tips

  • Do not submit incomplete applications or miss the deadline

  • Clearly establish the connection to Switzerland and national relevance

  • Ensure the budget is proportionate to the expected impact

  • Emphasize sustainability, diversity, and ecological responsibility

  • Highlight professional competence, independence, and engagement with the destination’s cultural scene

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the residency? Swiss citizens or permanent residents, as individuals or duos, or independent groups with a sustained Swiss presence.
2. What types of funding are available? Accommodation, travel, daily allowances, professional coaching, workstation access, production costs, and optional childcare support.
3. How many applications can I submit? Up to two distinct proposals per call; only one may be approved.
4. What is required for nationwide relevance? Active involvement in recognized institutions, significant contributions to Swiss culture, or projects strengthening regional exchange.
5. In what language must applications be submitted? Applications must be submitted in English.
6. When are applications accepted? From 1 January to 1 March, 23:59 CET.
7. When are decisions communicated? Within four months of submission; projects may begin the following year.

Conclusion

The Pro Helvetia Residency Program provides Swiss artists and cultural practitioners with funding, mentorship, and opportunities to deepen artistic exchange locally and internationally. By prioritizing projects with nationwide relevance, professional competence, sustainability, and diversity, the program strengthens Switzerland’s cultural production and fosters meaningful international collaborations.

For more information, visit Pro Helvetia.