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!
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Voluntary Service in Germany
Volunteering in Germany provides an excellent opportunity to:
Germany offers several voluntary service programs, including:
To apply for a voluntary service program in Germany, you typically need:
A B1 level in German (as per the European language framework).
Yes, a B1 level in German is required to effectively communicate and work in German-speaking environments.
Volunteers can work in various sectors, such as:
Healthcare: Supporting medical centers and awareness campaigns.
Volunteers receive a monthly stipend of at least €455.
Yes, in most cases, accommodation is provided for free or at a low cost.
Volunteers usually work around 40 hours per week, and some may be required to work on weekends depending on the project.
Employment Bridge assists volunteers by providing:
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.
Are you wondering if the requirements for traveling to Germany and applying to our programs apply to you?
Fill out the form now, and our team of specialists will get in touch with you to answer all your questions.
