NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 is now accepting applications for a fully funded academic opportunity in the Netherlands. Hosted by the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS) in the Humanities and Social Sciences, this fellowship supports international scholars, writers, artists, and journalists who are unable to continue their work safely in their home countries due to war, conflict, or political repression. The fellowship offers a vital space for free intellectual and creative expression in Amsterdam.
This five-month residential program runs either from September 2026 to January 2027 or from February to June 2027. Participants will receive full financial support, including accommodation and a monthly stipend, allowing them to focus on their work in a secure and inspiring academic environment. The NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship is more than just a relocation, it’s a lifeline for those whose scholarly and creative freedom is under threat.
Benefits of the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship
- Return Airfare Tickets
- Accommodation
- Stipend
- Letter of invitation
- Private office space
- Access to the Library and other Facilities.
Eligibility Criteria for the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship
- Candidates from all countries are eligible to apply for the Safe Haven Fellowship.
- For Scientific Proposals: You’ll need at least three years of research experience since earning your doctorate by the time you apply.
- For Artistic or journalistic Proposal: A PhD or three years of research experience is not required.
- Your proposed project must fall within the humanities or social sciences.
- Must have a good command of the English Language.
- Must be available physically for 4 Days a week.
Required Documents
- Project Proposal
- Motivation Letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Description of why you were compelled to leave your workplace.
About Research Area
Fellows can continue their research on a project of their own choice.
How to Apply for NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship
- Visit the official website
- Complete the online application form with accurate details
- Ensure all required documents are attached before submission
- Submit the application before the deadline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship offers a fully funded five‑month academic residency in Amsterdam for scholars, artists, writers or journalists at risk. Benefits include stipend, accommodation, workspace, travel support and community access. Applications accepted continuously.
What is the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship?
The NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship supports scholars, writers, artists and journalists at risk due to conflict or repression, by offering temporary relocation to NIAS in Amsterdam to continue work securely for five months.
Who is eligible for the Safe Haven Fellowship?
Applicants must be scholars at risk—authors, artists, journalists or researchers—unable to work safely in their own country. Academic candidates need a PhD and three years postdoc experience; artists/journalists may apply without it.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship offers a five‑month residency either from September to January or February to June, hosted at NIAS in Amsterdam.
What does the Safe Haven Fellowship provide?
Fellowship benefits include €3,500/month stipend, subsidized accommodation or commuting reimbursement, office space, research facilities, communal lunches, and travel reimbursement to and from Amsterdam.
Which disciplines are accepted under the Fellowship?
Projects must fall within the humanities or social sciences. Eligible applicants include those working in academic research, journalism, creative writing or the arts, provided the work is at risk.
How do I apply for the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship?
Submit a complete online form on the NIAS site, including a project proposal (max 1000 words), short motivation (max 150 words), CV and explanation of your forced departure circumstances.
What are the selection criteria?
Applications are evaluated on clarity, relevance, feasibility, methodology, expected outcomes, necessity of NIAS environment and the fellow’s potential contribution to the NIAS community.
Is the Fellowship open year‑round?
Yes: since January 15, 2025 NIAS runs a continuous call for Safe Haven Fellowship applications, reviewing submissions two or three times per year.
Does the Fellowship assist with visa arrangements?
NIAS issues an invitation letter to facilitate visa applications, but visa application and legal residency in the Netherlands are the responsibility of the fellow.
Does the Fellowship support long-term relocation?
No: the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship is strictly temporary and does not provide options for long‑term residence or employment in the Netherlands.
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