The Estonian Literary Society, in cooperation with the Tartu Literature House Foundation and other literary organisations, invites writers and translators to apply for a residency in Tartu, Estonia, November–December 2025.
Tartu, Estonia’s second-largest town and UNESCO City of Literature, offers a vibrant and diverse literary scene. The Tartu City of Literature residency programme aims to foster international literary exchange, support creative work, and introduce international authors and translators to Estonian audiences. In 2025, Estonia marks the 500th anniversary of the first printed book in Estonian, with national programmes celebrating literature and book culture. International guests are encouraged to participate.
The residency supports one writer or translator for a two-month stay in Tartu, enabling literary work, participation in local events, and engagement with the community. The programme includes involvement in festivals such as the interdisciplinary ‘Crazy Tartu’, taking place 6–8 November 2025.
Applicants must be writers or translators translating from Estonian into another language. They must have at least one published book (fiction or non-fiction), screenplay, theatre script or translation. Applicants must be over 18 and have upper-intermediate English. The call is open to individuals from any country.
One resident will be selected. The programme provides free accommodation in the Karl Ristikivi residency apartment, a scholarship of 600 EUR per month, and travel compensation up to 350 EUR. The apartment includes a bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathroom, and exhibition space. Residents receive administrative support and opportunities to present their work and participate in local literary life.
