Tartu City of Literature residency program aims to increase international exchange and communication, contribute to the mobility of writers and translators, offer a creative and inspiring environment, and provide writers with an opportunity to introduce their work to Estonian readers.

Tartu is the second largest town of Estonia, but is widely considered its intellectual capital – vitally significant in developing the educational system, culture, science and literature in the Estonian language.

The programme is open to all writers and translators (translating from Estonian to other languages) from across the world who meet the criteria described in the application pack (downloadable below). The residency program is coordinated by the Estonian Literary Society in cooperation with Tartu Literature House Foundation and in partnership with various other literary institutions.

The spring residency period includes the week of the Tartu International Literary Festival Prima Vista, held from May 11–16. This year’s festival, titled True and False, focuses on the borderlands between human beings and technology, nature and culture, and reality and imagination. It explores how artificial intelligence and artificial environments shape human identity and creativity, how literature helps preserve human experience, the role of imagination in the formation of identity, and what cultural authenticity means in a contemporary context.

While all writers and translators are encouraged to apply, particular interest will be given to applicants who can establish a meaningful connection with the festival’s theme.

Traditionally, at least one public event with the resident is organised as part of the festival programme.

This call is for a 2-month residency period, April-May 2026. One applicant will be selected.

The deadline for applications is February 23rd. The results will be announced at the beginning of March.