How To Move to Germany For Free Via the Federal Volunteer Service

People from developing countries can apply for volunteer service in Germany. There are four types of voluntary services available:

1. Federal Voluntary Service (BFD)
2. Voluntary Social Year (FSJ)
3. Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ)
4. European Voluntary Service (EVS)

Before applying for a visa, you need to secure a contract for your voluntary service in Germany. Here are the requirements:

Federal Voluntary Service (BFD):

• The contract must be signed by you, the Federal Office of Family Affairs and Civil Society Functions (BAFzA), the placement department, headquarters, and, if necessary, the institution overseeing the service.

Voluntary Social Year (FSJ) / Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ):

• The contract must be signed by you and the relevant institution, and, if needed, the placement department.

European Voluntary Service (EVS):

• The contract must be signed by the National Agency for Erasmus+ Youth in Action and the coordinating organization. The Volunteer Arrangement, detailing tasks and goals, must be signed by the coordinating organization and the volunteer.

Where to Find Voluntary Service Opportunities: Check out these websites to find voluntary service opportunities:

• Caritas
• Bundesfreiwilligendienst
• Friedensdienst
• Freiwillig JA
• Freiwilligenbotchaft
• Volunta
• ijgd
• AWO
• European Voluntary Service

Additional Resources:

• Deutschland.de – Volunteering in Germany
• Volunteering in Germany: a guide
• German Embassy in Pretoria – Volunteering Visa
• Federal Ministry for Family Affairs – Civic engagement
• Bundesfreiwilligendienst
• Jugendfreiwilligendienste

Important Points:

• Volunteering periods range from 6 to 24 months, with most lasting no more than 18 months.
• For FSJ and FÖJ, you must be between 16 and 27 years old.
• FSJ and FÖJ often include accommodation, meals, and an allowance.
• If you are over 27, you can still volunteer by applying for a BFD, although it is harder to obtain from outside Germany compared to FSJ and FÖJ. Typical placements include schools, churches, and kindergartens, with specific rules regarding working hours.
• Some institutions may require proficiency in the German language and/or certain skills.
• Ensure you understand what is included in your contract and have it documented.

Benefits of Volunteering: Volunteering allows you to make a positive social or ecological impact. Other benefits include:

• Meeting new people and experiencing a new environment
• Learning about the language and culture
• Gaining experience in various competencies
• Acquiring references
• Improving social skills
• Understanding social welfare or ecological responsibilities
• Exploring careers in social fields like teaching or nursing