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VOLUNTEERING

weltwärts — Supported Volunteering Abroad

Apply to an approved German sending organisation for a defined partner project, with preparation, support and public funding.

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At a glance

TypeSupported development volunteering
WhoGerman citizens or people with permanent German residence rights
AgeUsually 18–28; approved routes extend to 35
Duration6–24 months; placement-specific
SupportAccommodation, food, insurance, seminars and mentoring
ApplicationApproved sending organisation ↗

Programme highlights

✓ A defined social, educational or environmental partner project✓ Preparation and support in Germany and abroad✓ Work and learning alongside a local organisation✓ Current roles and deadlines in the official exchange

About weltwärts — Supported Volunteering Abroad

weltwärts is financed by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and delivered by approved non-profit sending organisations with partners abroad. It is not one central application or one uniform placement.

Start with the official exchange. Compare organisations, countries, activities, departures and deadlines, then apply directly to the sending organisation. That organisation runs selection and preparation, agrees the placement with its partner and remains responsible for support during service.

Eligibility criteria

  • AgeYou normally serve between ages 18 and 28. You may apply at 17 if you will be 18 by departure. Participation through age 35 is possible under specified inclusion or approved exceptional routes.
  • Germany connectionYou need German citizenship or a permanent right of residence in Germany. Another EU citizenship alone is not enough.
  • EducationA school qualification, vocational qualification or another form of demonstrated suitability is accepted; university education is not required.
  • LanguageSchool-level English, Spanish or French is often sufficient initially, but the exact placement and destination control the requirement.
  • ExperienceProfessional experience is not a general requirement. Motivation, openness, teamwork and willingness to learn are important.
  • PlacementSelection, destination, activity, duration and deadline depend on the live sending organisation and partner project.

Important to know

A country in the general programme network is not proof of a currently available place. Check the live organisation profile, placement, deadline, language, visa conditions and exact support package before applying or booking travel.

weltwärts — eligibilityweltwärts — current organisation exchange

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