Looking for a fully funded fellowship in Europe? Applications are now open for the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 in Netherlands, an exceptional opportunity for scientists, academics, journalists, authors, and artists facing challenges in their home countries. Hosted by the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS), this fellowship provides a secure platform for researchers, creatives, and professionals at risk to conduct uninterrupted, independent research or creative projects. NIAS, located in the vibrant cultural hub of Amsterdam, welcomes nearly 50 fellows annually to its prestigious program, fostering a diverse and dynamic academic community. Don’t miss this chance to engage in transformative research read on for full details.

Since February 2025, University of Amsterdam (UvA) and Maastricht University (UM) have partnered with NIAS, enhancing the program’s credibility and global reach. The NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 is designed for individuals whose work is obstructed due to war, conflict, or political repression. Fellows participate in weekly academic seminars, creative writing workshops, and lively interdisciplinary discussions, creating a collaborative environment. The fellowship, running from September 2026 to January 2027 (5 months), also includes opportunities to organize professional workshops, cultural events, and public engagements, enriching both professional and personal growth.

The NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 is fully funded, covering travel expenses, a monthly stipend of €3,500, and subsidized accommodation in Amsterdam. Fellows gain access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including a private office with a phone, laptop, printer, and internet, as well as free library services. This program invites talented scholars from regions such as Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Latin America, prioritizing diversity in gender, career stage, and academic disciplines. To learn about eligibility, requirements, benefits, and how to apply, continue reading.

More Details About the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 in Netherlands

The Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS), part of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), is a globally recognized hub for interdisciplinary research in the humanities and social sciences. Located in Amsterdam, a city celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, museums, dining, and festivals, NIAS fosters a supportive environment for fellows to pursue groundbreaking projects. The Safe Haven Fellowship specifically targets individuals whose academic or creative freedom is restricted by conflict or oppression, offering a temporary relocation to a safe and inspiring setting.

In 2026, the program emphasizes fostering inclusivity and innovation, with fellows contributing to discussions on global challenges like human rights, cultural preservation, and social justice. The partnership with UvA and UM strengthens NIAS’s commitment to academic excellence, providing access to additional resources and networks. Fellows are encouraged to propose projects that align with their expertise, ensuring impactful contributions to their fields and communities.

Host Institute

• Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS)

NIAS Program Location

• Amsterdam, Netherlands

NIAS Fellowship Duration

• 5 months (September 2026 – January 2027)

Financial Coverage

• Fully Funded

Deadline

• December 31, 2025

Eligibility Criteria for the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 in Netherlands

Interested in this transformative European fellowship? Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026:

• Eligible Regions: Open to talented individuals from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Applicants affiliated with institutions boycotted by the Dutch government are not eligible.
• Scientific Proposals: Applicants must have a PhD and at least 3 years of post-doctoral research experience at the time of application.
• Artistic or Journalistic Proposals: A PhD is not required, but applicants must demonstrate significant professional experience or a strong project portfolio.
• Project Scope: Proposed projects must fall within the humanities or social sciences, such as history, sociology, political science, literature, journalism, or the arts.
• Language Proficiency: Strong command of English (written and spoken) is mandatory for participation in seminars and discussions.
• Commitment: Applicants must be available to reside in Amsterdam and engage actively in the NIAS community for the full 5-month duration.
• At-Risk Status: Priority is given to individuals facing barriers to their work due to war, conflict, or political repression.

Note: NIAS values diversity and strives for balance in gender, career stage, and disciplines when selecting fellows.

Benefits of the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 in Netherlands

Eligible for this exceptional fellowship? Prepare your application for the fully funded NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship. Here are the comprehensive benefits:

• Monthly Stipend: €3,500 per month to cover living expenses.
• Travel Coverage: Full reimbursement for round-trip travel to and from Amsterdam.
• Subsidized Accommodation: Affordable housing options in Amsterdam, a city known for its vibrant cultural scene.
• Research Facilities: Access to a private office equipped with a phone, laptop, printer, and high-speed internet at subsidized rates.
• Library Services: Free access to NIAS’s extensive library resources, including digital databases and archives.
• Community Engagement: Participation in the NIAS community through weekly seminars, creative writing workshops, and interdisciplinary discussions.
• Professional Development: Opportunities to organize workshops, cultural events, and public engagements, enhancing your professional profile.
• Cultural Immersion: Live in Amsterdam, exploring its rich heritage, museums, and festivals while connecting with a global network of scholars.

This fellowship offers a unique chance to advance your work in a safe, supportive environment while contributing to global academic discourse.

NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship Requirements

To apply, prepare the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight your academic achievements, professional experience, and relevant publications or projects.
• Motivation Statement: A 500-1,000-word essay explaining your reasons for applying, how the fellowship aligns with your goals, and the challenges you face in your home country.
• Project Description: A detailed proposal (1,000 words maximum) outlining your research or creative project, its significance, and its alignment with humanities or social sciences.

Optional but Recommended:

• Letters of recommendation (1-2) from academic or professional referees to strengthen your application.
• Portfolio (for artists or journalists) showcasing previous work, such as articles, artworks, or media projects.

For More Fellowships, keep visiting out Fellowship Catalog.

Application Process for the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026

The application process for the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 is straightforward and online. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Visit the official NIAS website and access the online application portal.
2. Complete the NIAS fellowship application form with accurate personal and professional details.
3. Answer all fellowship-specific questions, such as your project’s scope and how it addresses challenges in your field.
4. Upload the required documents: CV, motivation statement, and project description. Ensure all files are in PDF format and meet specified guidelines.
5. Review your application carefully to avoid errors or omissions.
6. Submit your application before the December 31, 2025, deadline.
7. Await confirmation of receipt from NIAS. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview or additional clarification.

Tip: Apply early to allow time for document preparation and to demonstrate proactive engagement. Use NIAS’s application guidelines for detailed instructions.

NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship Deadline

• Application Deadline: December 31, 2025

Why Apply for the NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026?

The NIAS Safe Haven Fellowship 2026 offers a transformative experience for scholars and creatives at risk. Here’s why it stands out:

• Safe Environment: Conduct your work in a secure, supportive setting, free from the constraints of conflict or oppression.
• Global Network: Connect with nearly 50 fellows from diverse regions, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Amsterdam’s Cultural Hub: Immerse yourself in a city renowned for its intellectual and cultural vibrancy, enhancing both your work and personal experience.
• Research Excellence: Leverage NIAS’s world-class facilities and partnerships with UvA and UM to advance your project.
• Impactful Outcomes: Past fellows have published books, secured grants, and influenced policy, demonstrating the program’s global reach.

In 2026, NIAS emphasizes themes like resilience, cultural dialogue, and social equity, aligning with global priorities and offering fellows a platform to address pressing issues.

How to Strengthen Your Application

To stand out in this competitive program:

• Craft a compelling motivation statement that highlights your challenges and how NIAS can help you overcome them.
• Ensure your project description is clear, feasible, and impactful, with a strong connection to humanities or social sciences.
• Include recommendation letters to validate your expertise and at-risk status.
• Demonstrate English proficiency through your application materials or prior work.
• Use professional counseling services to refine your proposal and align it with NIAS’s mission.

Contact

For more details and to apply, visit the official NIAS website