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PEN Català, in collaboration with Barcelona City of Literature, has opened the call for applications for two international literary residencies in 2026 as part of the UNESCO Cities of Literature Network.

This fourth edition aims to promote the mobility of refugee writers in Europe and support literary creation in a context of cultural exchange.

What does the residency include?
The residency offers accommodation and a grant of €600 to cover travel and living expenses.

Who can apply?
Refugee writers and translators based in Europe, working in any literary genre—fiction or non-fiction—are eligible to apply. Special attention will be given to writers from communities facing cultural or linguistic persecution.

Duration
The residency will last 21 days, from July 7 to July 27, 2026.

Requirements
Proof of two published literary works (self-publishing excluded), or two productions in the case of playwrights.
Sufficient knowledge of English.
Willingness to participate in cultural activities and exchanges with publishers, librarians, authors, and cultural institutions in Barcelona.

Selection criteria
Membership in a PEN Centre, previous participation in the ICORN Writers in Refuge programme, or a demonstrated connection to these networks.The literary and linguistic quality of the proposed project, as well as its engagement with contemporary issues.
The applicant’s interest in the city of Barcelona, its culture, and the Catalan language.

Required documentation
– Motivation letter and CV.
– List of published works.
– Presentation of the literary project (title, 1–2 page description, and a 3–5 page writing sample).
– Documentation proving refugee status, application for international protection, or statelessness.

Application deadline
The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2026.

The residency
The residency takes place at Vil·la Joana (MUHBA), a historic building surrounded by nature in the Collserola hills. Although it is located away from the city and there are no nearby shops or supermarkets, it is well connected to central Barcelona by train (Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat, Baixador de Vallvidrera stop).

Each writer will have a private room with an en-suite bathroom, workspace, and a balcony with views. Residents will share common spaces such as a fully equipped kitchen and will live together during the stay. Accompanying persons are not allowed.

Cultural activities will be organized in Barcelona during the residency, and participants are expected to take part in all of them. While a PEN Català coordinator will provide support, residents are expected to manage their daily routines independently, including shopping and cooking.

For more information: pen@pencatala.cat