Legal basis: Section 19c(1) of the Residence Act (AufenthG), Section 14 of the Residence Regulation (BeschV), or Section 19e of the Residence Act (AufenthG) for the European Voluntary Service.
Requirements:
- Participation in a recognized volunteer service (BFD, FSJ, FÖJ, or European Voluntary Service), duration 6–18 (in exceptional cases 24) months.
- Objective: Commitment to the common good, acquisition of skills, contribution to social cohesion.
Documents:
- Passport + copy, VIDEX form, biometric photos.
- Resume, letter of motivation.
- Contract/ Agreement on the volunteer service (signed by all relevant parties – BAFzA/sponsoring organization/coordination offices).
- Proof of educational/vocational qualifications, letters of recommendation if applicable.
- Proof of intent to return (confirmation from employer/university).
- Proof of language proficiency or confirmation that volunteer service is possible without German language skills; otherwise recognized language certificates.
- Health insurance effective upon entry, fee €75; processing time 1–2 months, waiting time for an appointment approx. 1 year according to the portal.