Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions What does DutchCulture do?We support you in working internationally in the cultural and creative sector, across all disciplines.You can come to us for:information and practical advice, for example on working with one of the 24 focal countries, regulations, mobility, partners abroad, artist-in-residencies, and fundingtraining and eventsconnections to relevant partners and networksinsights into international cultural developmentsWe also support international partners who want to collaborate with the cultural and creative sector in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. And we work with public authorities, policymakers, and diplomatic missions to strengthen international cultural exchange.What we don’t do: provide direct funding, manage projects, or act as a booking or intermediary agency.Can I receive support from DutchCulture? Yes—if you have the ambition, or plans to work internationally in the cultural or creative sector and you are:based in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, regardless of your nationalityor a Dutch citizen (temporarily) living or working abroad.We also support partners worldwide who want to collaborate with the sector in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.On our website you’ll find: funding opportunities (information and overviews)*open calls for international projects and residenciesguidance on practical and legal requirements (for travelling and working abroad, or working with international partners)country information for the Dutch Government’s 24 focal countriesinsights in international developments in the sectora Cultural Database with international activities by makers based in or from the Kingdom of the Netherlandsevents by DutchCulture or in cooperation with partners, such as webinars, workshops, networking sessions, trainingsnews and stories, videos and podcastsStill not sure where to start, or whether your question fits our scope? Contact our Advice Desk.*Please note: we don’t provide direct funding, but we can help you navigate funding opportunities, regulations, and relevant networks.We don’t manage projects or act as a booking or intermediary agency.I want to work internationally. Where do I start on this website? If you’re exploring international opportunities, these three pages are a good starting point: 1. Focal countries – practical information on working in any of the Dutch Government’s 24 focal countries.2. Funding opportunities – browse funding opportunities and open calls, also for artist-in-residence programmes.3. Cultural Database – search international activities to see where other makers have worked and travelled.Do you already have concrete plans and a specific question? Contact our Advice Desk.Can you fund my project or help me find funding? DutchCulture is not a funding body. But you can use our guides to find funding that fits your plan, for example:The Mobility Funding Guide (an overview of major funding options for international cultural projects)Open calls, including Creative Europe opportunities and artist-in-residence callsWe do manage two small grant schemes for specific forms of heritage exchange:Europe + Heritage programme – heritage cooperation between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Europe (Travel Scheme and General Support Scheme)International Heritage Cooperation – Matching Fund and Travel CompensationWhat is the Creative Europe Desk, and how can I apply for Creative Europe support?Creative Europe (2021–2027) is the European Commission’s support programme for the cultural, creative, and audiovisual sectors. Every European country has their local Creative Europe Desk. The Creative Europe Desk NL is part of DutchCulture. The Creative Europe Desk NL can support you in:identifying which calls and funding streams may fit your plannavigating the application processFor specific questions about the Creative Europe programme, you can also contact our Advice Desk.How can I find an international artist-in-residence programme?You can visit TransArtists, DutchCulture's platform for artist-in-residence programmes and other international opportunities.With 1,700+ residencies worldwide, you can search for programmes that match your discipline, destination, and needs. You’ll also find practical guidance on how residencies work and how to prepare (including a checklist).Start here:explore and filter options in the TransArtists residency databasecheck the TransArtists open calls page for programmes currently accepting applicationslook at the Cultural Mobility Funding Guide for possible support with travel and accommodation costsNeed help choosing options that fit your practice? Contact our Advice Desk.How can I find open calls?Go to our Open calls page to find calls for the Creative Europe programme, artist-in-residence programmes and from partner organisations.Can you help me with visas, permits, taxes, transportation, and other paperwork?Yes. If you’re planning to work abroad, collaborate with international artists in the Netherlands, or work here as an international artist, use our Travel & docs page.You’ll find guidance on topics such as:visas and work permitscontractssocial securitytax-related matterspractical tips and common issues to watch out forPlease note: we provide information and advice, but you remain responsible for applications and procedures. We can’t influence decisions by public authorities, we don't give legal advice, and we don’t review tax returns or application forms. If you need formal legal or tax support, contact the relevant authorities or a qualified advisor.Need tailored guidance? Contact our Advice Desk.Can we partner up?Possibly. If your organisation works on international cultural cooperation and your plans connect to our mission, we’re open to exploring collaboration.We work with cultural organisations, public authorities, diplomatic missions, and international partners on projects, knowledge exchange, and thematic programmes.Let us know what you have in mind via our Advic