The Swiss Arts Council supports studio and research residencies in the regions covered by the liaison offices it maintains in Egypt, India, Poland and South Africa. Swiss artists and cultural practitioners (e.g. curators, event organisers, promoters) in the areas of the visual arts, music, literature, theatre and dance are eligible to apply. Conversely, Pro Helvetia facilitates residencies in Switzerland for interested persons from the above-mentioned regions. Each year between four and six applications per region can be considered. 

Studio residency
The residency (max. 6 months) gives artists and cultural practitioners the chance to get a broad insight into a different cultural environment. During this time they can find inspiration, establish networks and make their work known in a new context, without being under the pressure of production. In addition to a place to work and accommodation, Pro Helvetia provides a specialist from their field to support them. The Swiss Arts Council also pays the costs of travel, board and insurance.

Selection criteria:   
Convincing track record, personal motivation, adequate command of English or a relevant foreign language and eagerness to become involved in exchange with the Swiss local cultural scene. The selection is made by a jury set up by the liaison office in conjunction with the specialised division in Zurich.

Applications:          
The deadline to submit the application is 1.February of each year for the following year. Starting 2010 applicant’s can also apply via myprohelvetia - Pro Helvetia's online portal for applications (under «Inter-/Multidisciplinary projects/Residencies»).

Research residency
The short residency (max. 4 weeks) enables artists and cultural practitioners to carry out research in the regions covered by the liaison offices, or conversely in Switzerland. The residency is an opportunity to get to know a different culture or to prepare a project. An expert in the relevant field will help to put together the programme for the visit and will be available to give support during the residency. Pro Helvetia pays the costs of travel, board and lodging and insurance.

Selection criteria:   
Convincing track record, outline of a project with sustainable impact and international resonance or another plausible motivation, adequate command of English or a relevant foreign language. The selection will be made by the liaison office.

Applications:   
Artists who wish to apply for research residencies in the first half of the year should send their applications before 1st of August. For residencies in the second half of the year, applications should be sent before 1st of February. Starting 2010, application may also be submitted via myprohelvetia - Pro Helvetia's online portal for applications (under «Knowledge sharing»).