Call for Creative Submissions: Fiction and Non-Fiction

Wasafiri is open for creative submissions in fiction and non-fiction from 1 April – 1 May 2026. We seek innovative creative writing that in form, focus, or theme aims to expand the boundaries of global literary culture. Throughout our decades-long history, we have platformed and sparked exciting cross-genre and inter-regional conversations, and we welcome your work in our pages.

Writers can be based anywhere in the world, but the work must be in English — either originally written in, or translated into, English. Submission to the magazine is free, and we hope to respond to all writers within six months. Submitted work must be between 3,000-5,000 words. When completing the submission form, please select ‘I cannot find my organisation’ and write ‘Wasafiri’ if asked to provide an Organisation.

Please ensure that your submission is thematically, structurally, conceptually, and grammatically polished before submission. Above all, we look for submissions that are thoughtful and nuanced, formally outstanding, and profoundly absorbing. We allow simultaneous submissions but ask that you notify us as soon as possible if your work is accepted elsewhere.

We pay writers for all published creative writing. 

Visit our Submit page for full details, including word count, format, and fees.

Deadline for submissions: Midnight BST, Friday, 1 May 2026

Cover image: Lotus, 1957 by Paul Jenkins