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Volunteering in Germany

If you want to gain practical experience after graduation or even develop your practical and professional skills, volunteering in Germany gives you the opportunity to contribute to society, gain new experiences, and explore different fields of work. Learn how to join, the qualifications and requirements, and everything you need to know about volunteering and traveling to Germany, all with the support of the Employment Bridge team!

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Federal Voluntary Service (BFD)

Voluntary Social Year (FSJ)

Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ)

European Voluntary Service (EVS)

Weltwärts & Nord-Süd Voluntary Service

Requirements for International Applicants

Working Hours, Salary, and Accommodation

Why Choose a Volunteer Year with Employment Bridge?

Federal Voluntary Service (BFD):

  • The Bundesfreiwilligendienst (BFD) is an opportunity for people of all ages to volunteer outside of work and study.
  • BFD is a voluntary commitment in various social, cultural, or other public institutions in Germany. These include kindergartens, schools, nursing homes, and more, where volunteers primarily assist with practical tasks.
  • Duration: Usually 12 months.
  • Compensation: Volunteers receive a monthly stipend.
  • Eligibility: Anyone who has completed high school can participate.

Age Limit:

  • There is no age limit

Workplaces:

  • Elderly care homes
  • Schools
  • Kindergartens
  • Institutions for people with disabilities
  • Social organizations

Voluntary Social Year (FSJ):

  • The Freiwilliges Soziales Jahr (FSJ) is a program in Germany that allows young people to engage in volunteer work in various fields for a period of about 12 months.
  • During the FSJ, you will receive guidance and support from supervisors at your volunteering site and participate in seminars with other volunteers. The program is designed for individuals aged 18 to 27 who have completed their school education and are looking to gain practical experience, contribute to social work, and develop their careers. Participants in the FSJ receive a monthly stipend.

Age Limit:

  • Up to 27 years old.

Workplaces:

  • Elderly care homes
  • Child and youth care
  • Institutions for people with disabilities

Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ):

  • The Freiwilliges Ökologisches Jahr (FÖJ) is an educational year that gives young people aged 18 to 27 the chance to contribute to environmental protection and sustainability.
  • By joining an environmental organization and participating in seminars with other volunteers, you will gain in-depth knowledge about ecological issues and sustainability. The FÖJ is a great opportunity to develop professional skills and gain valuable practical experience.

Age Limit:

  • Up to 27 years old.

Workplaces:

  • Environmental associations
  • Organic farms (without chemicals)
  • Nature and environmental education centers
  • Conservation stations (protecting animals and plants)

European Voluntary Service (EVS)

  • The European Voluntary Service (EVS) is an opportunity for young people to engage intensively with a new culture while gaining practical experience and personal development in Germany. The duration of the voluntary service can extend up to two years and involves participation in social, environmental, and cultural projects

Age Limit:

  • Minimum age: 18 years at the start of the service
  • Maximum age: 30 years at the time of application

Workplaces:

  • Social Sector: Working with people with disabilities, refugees, or the homeless.
  • Environment & Sustainability: Projects focused on nature conservation, organic farming, and animal welfare.
  • Education & Culture: Assisting in schools, youth centers, or cultural projects.

Weltwärts & Nord-Süd Voluntary Service

  • The Weltwärts program is a voluntary initiative organized by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. It provides young people from around the world with the opportunity to spend a year abroad, explore new cultures, and broaden their perspectives. The program consists of two components:
  • South-North Voluntary Service: German youth travel abroad for a year to participate in development projects.
  • North-South Voluntary Service: Young people from other countries travel to Germany to engage in enriching voluntary experiences.
  • The program aims to promote cultural exchange and foster connections between the Global North and South. It also enhances the personal and professional skills of volunteers while supporting civil society in their home countries. Returning volunteers bring back valuable knowledge and experiences that contribute to sustainable development and international cooperation.

Age Limit:

  • 18 to 29 years old

Workplaces:

  • Education & Community: Assisting in schools, orphanages, or youth projects.
  • Environment & Development: Nature conservation, climate protection, and sustainable agriculture.
  • Healthcare: Supporting health centers or awareness projects.

Requirements for International Applicants:

  • Minimum age: 18 years
  • High school diploma (Egyptian secondary education)
  • German language level: B1 (according to the European framework)

Working Hours, Salary, and Accommodation:

  • Salary: At least €455 per month
  • Working hours: Around 40 hours per week (with possible weekend shifts)
  • Accommodation: Free in most cases

Why Choose a Volunteer Year with Employment Bridge?

  1. Gain practical experience in Germany
  2. Improve your German language skills in a real-world environment
  3. Explore different career fields to determine your future profession
  4. Volunteering helps develop essential skills
  5. Receive a certificate detailing the type and duration of your volunteer work
  6. Get comprehensive support from our team at every step

Your Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Voluntary Service in Germany

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  • What are the benefits of participating in a voluntary service program in Germany?

    Volunteering in Germany provides an excellent opportunity to:

    • Gain practical experience in various fields.
    • Improve your German language skills in a real-life setting.
    • Explore different career paths before committing to a specific profession.
    • Contribute to social and environmental causes.
    • Receive a certificate recognizing your voluntary work.
  • What are the different types of voluntary service programs in Germany?

    Germany offers several voluntary service programs, including:

    • Bundesfreiwilligendienst (BFD) 
    • Freiwilliges Soziales Jahr (FSJ) 
    • Freiwilliges Ökologisches Jahr (FÖJ) 
    • Europäischer Freiwilligendienst (EVS) 
    • Weltwärts (Nord-Süd)
  • What are the eligibility requirements for international applicants?

    To apply for a voluntary service program in Germany, you typically need:

    • A minimum age of 18.
    • A high school diploma High school diploma (Egyptian secondary education.

    A B1 level in German (as per the European language framework).

  • Do I need to know German to apply?

    Yes, a B1 level in German is required to effectively communicate and work in German-speaking environments.

  • How long does a voluntary service program last?

    Most programs last 12 months, but some can extend up to 24 months, depending on the type of service.

  • What kind of work can I do during my voluntary service?

    Volunteers can work in various sectors, such as:

    • Social Sector: Assisting people with disabilities, elderly care, working with refugees, or supporting children and youth.
    • Education & Culture: Helping in schools, kindergartens, and cultural institutions.
    • Environmental Work: Conservation projects, sustainable farming, and wildlife protection.

    Healthcare: Supporting medical centers and awareness campaigns.

  • Will I receive a salary?

    Volunteers receive a monthly stipend of at least €455.

  • Is accommodation provided?

    Yes, in most cases, accommodation is provided for free or at a low cost.

  • How many hours will I work per week?

    Volunteers usually work around 40 hours per week, and some may be required to work on weekends depending on the project.

  • What support does Employment Bridge offer?

    Employment Bridge assists volunteers by providing:

    • Guidance throughout the application process.
    • Help in finding the right program that suits your interests.
    • Support with visa  applications and acceptance to volunteering programs.
  • How can I apply for a voluntary service program in Germany?

    You can start by contacting Employment Bridge for guidance, where you will receive guidance throughout the entire application process, including choosing the right program, preparing documents, and submitting your official application.

Start Your Journey with Us

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