Work as a volunteer

As an applicant for international protection, you may work as a volunteer. This is a good way to meet new people, learn the language and gain new experiences.

What is volunteer work?

If you help others without personal gain, on a voluntary basis and without making money, then this is called voluntary work. As a volunteer

  • You do not earn any money. You will sometimes get a small volunteer fee
  • You do work outside your family or friend circle
  • You do not have an employment contract. You can however ask for a volunteer's contract.

Examples of volunteer work:

  • helping children with their school work
  • training young people at a sports club
  • supporting older people or people with disabilities
  • helping an organisation with a concert or activity.

It is possible that the organisation for whom you are doing volunteer work will pay for your bus, tram or train ticket.

Volunteering

Who can work as a volunteer?

  • You must be at least 15 years old.
  • You have submitted an application for international protection
  • Or you are entitled to reception (you stay in a reception centre)

Do you need help?

Tell your social worker that you want to do volunteer work.

Video Volunteering. Click on 'cc' to change the language of the subtitles