Ecological Voluntary Services
Engage now, shape tomorrow!

Voluntary service means committing yourself for a certain period of time to a social, cultural, ecological, or other non-profit activity.

In return, you receive an allowance (“pocket money”), gain valuable practical experience, and develop personally – all while making a positive contributing to society.

Voluntary services in Germany:

• FSJ – Voluntary Social Year: for young people under 27, working in social and welfare institutions.
• FÖJ – Voluntary Ecological Year: for young people under 27, focused on nature and environmental protection.
• BFD – Federal Voluntary Service: for all ages starting at 16. This includes the ÖBFD – Federal Voluntary Service in Ecology.

-> FÖJ and ÖBFD both focus on environmental and/or nature protection.

In an ecological voluntary service (FÖJ, ÖBFD), you can contribute your skills and energy to protecting nature, promoting sustainability, and supporting society – while gaining new experiences.

There are hundreds of possible assignment locations across Germany, for example, in:

• Forest and landscape conservation
• Environmental and sustainability organizations
• Scientific and ecological labs
• Educational projects with children and youth

No matter where you do your voluntary service, it’s worth it – because you’re making a difference. For yourself, for others, and for the future.

FÖJ – Voluntary Ecological Year

• For young people between 16 and 26 years
• Usually lasts 12 months
• Start date: August or September, depending on the Region

ÖBFD – Federal Voluntary Service in Ecology

• Open to all ages starting at 16
• Duration: 6–18 months
• Flexible start dates, depending on your needs and your Placement

General requirements

• You need a residence in Germany – once your voluntary service begins (this can also be accommodation provided by your placement).
• German citizenship is not required, but you should have sufficient German language skills (B1–B2). The exact level will be determined by the respective agency.
• Commitment to the agreed duration, usually at least one year.
• Participation in seminar days (at least 25 days in FÖJ/ÖBFD if under 27, 12 days if over 27 in ÖBFD).
• Willingness to engage in full-time service (40 regular working hours per week).
• Interest in environmental topics and motivation to get involved.

👉 You can find more detailed requirements on the websites of the respective voluntary service agencies.

💡 Please note: You will receive pocket money, but this usually does not cover all living expenses.

You’ll have the same conditions as applicants from Germany. On top of that, there are a few additional points you should keep in mind:

• Minimum age: usually 18 years.
• A visa is required (once you have a confirmed contract).
• You will need a German bank account for the duration of your service.
• Travel costs must be covered by yourself.

! Important: Make sure to start your application and visa process as early as possible, since both steps can take some time.

• A monthly allowance (pocket money). Please note: this usually does not cover all living expenses.
• Depending on your placement: accommodation and meals may be provided (sometimes with additional costs).
• Health insurance through your agency of voluntary service (“Träger”) for the entire duration of your service.
• Opportunities to gain valuable skills and experience for your future studies and career.
• The chance to take responsibility in environmental and sustainability projects that truly make a difference.

-> Use the Ö-Finder (our online placement map, available in German). There you can search for placements by age, location, or field of action. It is also possible to look specifically for placements that include accommodation. Once you have chosen a suitable institution, please apply directly to the respective voluntary service agency (“Träger”).

If you live abroad (“Incoming”):

• Please make sure to inform yourself thoroughly about voluntary services. Carefully check the requirements for international applicants here and on the website of the respective agency of voluntary service. Please note: FÖJ and ÖBFD are not intended for people who only want to learn German or get to know the country.
• Since FÖJ and ÖBFD primarily address applicants from Germany, placements for international participants are limited. You are welcome to contact the agency directly to ask whether they currently accept “Incoming” applicants.

Yes. However, you will need to apply for a new visa specifically for voluntary service. Please note that voluntary service must begin directly after your Au-pair stay. For this purpose, contact your local immigration office to apply for a new residence permit.

Yes, there are some opportunities, although FÖJ and ÖBFD are mainly carried out in Germany. Certain voluntary service agencies also offer ecological voluntary services abroad. In addition, there are other international programs you can explore. Check out further information on ecological voluntary services abroad (in German).