The Pro Helvetia Residency in Switzerland 2027 (Funded) is a prestigious international residency program designed to support artists and cultural practitioners from selected regions around the world. Offered by Pro Helvetia, the Swiss Arts Council, this opportunity allows creatives to live and work in Switzerland for up to three months while engaging deeply with the Swiss cultural landscape.
The residency promotes artistic exchange, professional development, and cross-cultural dialogue by connecting international practitioners with Swiss institutions, networks, and cultural professionals. Applications are open to eligible artists across all disciplines who do not have an existing professional connection to Switzerland.
Overview of the Pro Helvetia Residency Program
The Pro Helvetia Residency offers fully supported short-term residencies hosted by partner institutions across Switzerland. Selected participants gain access to a creative environment that encourages experimentation, research, and collaboration.
This residency is open to individual artists and artist duos working in any artistic discipline supported by Pro Helvetia. The program is especially aimed at strengthening ties between Switzerland and cultural scenes in Africa, Asia, South America, and the Arab region.
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Who Can Apply?
The residency is specifically designed for artists and cultural practitioners without prior professional ties to Switzerland. Applicants must be permanently based in one of the regions covered by Pro Helvetia’s liaison offices.
Eligible regions include:
- Arab region
- East Asia
- South America
- South Asia and Vietnam
- West Africa
- Central Africa
- East Africa
- Southern Africa
Applicants must be actively engaged in their local cultural scene and demonstrate a strong professional practice. Importantly, applications are accepted from both individuals and artist duos.
Residency Duration and Structure
Selected artists will take part in a residency lasting up to three months at one of Pro Helvetia’s partner institutions in Switzerland. The residency period allows participants to focus on artistic research, conceptual development, or creative production while building professional networks within Switzerland’s cultural ecosystem.
The earliest possible start date for approved residencies is the year following application, meaning this call applies to residencies taking place in 2027.
What the Residency Covers (Financial Support)
The Pro Helvetia Residency in Switzerland is fully funded, offering comprehensive financial support to ensure participants can focus entirely on their artistic work. The financial contribution includes:
- Accommodation in Switzerland
- International travel costs
- Daily living allowances
- Access to a cultural coach from the local artistic field to support networking and exchange
- A workstation, available upon request
- Contributions toward production or material costs, available upon request
In addition, artists and cultural practitioners with childcare responsibilities may apply for extra financial support of up to CHF 1,000 per month. This support can be used for childcare expenses or for covering travel costs for children and, if necessary, a caregiver. Applicants must submit a detailed budget outlining anticipated expenses in advance.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated by Pro Helvetia based on clear professional and artistic criteria. To be competitive, applicants must demonstrate:
- Permanent residence in an eligible region and active involvement in the local cultural scene
- A strong portfolio and proven professional track record
- A clear professional interest in the chosen Swiss destination
- A well-developed project or research proposal that fosters cultural exchange between Switzerland and the applicant’s home country
- A strong motivation to connect with Switzerland’s local cultural field
- Working knowledge of English or one of Switzerland’s national languages to ensure effective communication
Application Requirements
All applications must be submitted in English and include the following materials:
- A title and brief description of the proposed project or research idea
- A motivation statement explaining interest in the selected Swiss destination
- Preferred length of stay and chosen residency location
- A professional CV
- A comprehensive portfolio showcasing previous work
Incomplete or non-compliant applications may not be considered.
Important Exclusion Criteria
Certain applicants are not eligible for this residency. Pro Helvetia will not consider applications from:
- Artists based outside the regions served by its liaison offices
- Applicants currently enrolled in formal education, including universities, schools, or basic training programs
Additionally, Pro Helvetia does not take responsibility for visa approvals for artists, accompanying family members, children, or caregivers.
Application Timeline
- Applications open: 1 January
- Submission deadline: 1 March at 23:59 (CET)
- Notification of decision: Within four months of submission
- Earliest residency start: The following year (2027)
Applicants are encouraged to submit early and ensure all required documents are complete.
Why Apply for the Pro Helvetia Residency?
The Pro Helvetia Residency in Switzerland 2027 offers a rare opportunity for international artists to expand their practice within one of Europe’s most dynamic cultural environments. Through professional coaching, institutional support, and immersive cultural exchange, participants gain long-term benefits that extend well beyond the residency period.
By supporting global artistic mobility and collaboration, Pro Helvetia continues to strengthen international cultural dialogue and foster meaningful connections between Switzerland and creative communities worldwide.
For more information, visit the Pro Helvetia Residency in Switzerland.
