Dec 09, 2023
How to get a residence permit for volunteering in Germany
Volunteer programs are usually available for up to 1 year. Volunteering does not guarantee a permanent residence permit, but it allows you to live in a new country, make acquaintances, find a future job, and think about your next steps. Most programs provide accommodation and food, some programs provide flight expenses and pocket money.
Well-known programs
workaway.info
helpx.net
hippohelp.com
wwoof.net
mir-tesen.org
After completing a volunteer program, it is possible to legalize in the country on other grounds - e.g. Digital Nomad, education, work. Volunteer programs can apply for a long-term visa (for the duration of the program) or get a residence permit for volunteering.
Participants of internships or volunteer programs can get a temporary residence permit in Germany.
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One of the popular programs is Au Pair It has an age limit: 18-27 years old. Volunteers live with a host German family and help take care of the children and the house. All other conditions for participation are spelled out on the website of the program.
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Once you have been accepted as a volunteer in the program, you must obtain a D visa in your home country.
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Au Pairs usually receive a 90-day visa, which they must extend as a temporary residence permit while already in Germany. This will require registration with the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) and the Aliens Office (Ausländerbehörde).