International Youth Volunteer Service (IJFD)

The International Youth Volunteer Service (IJFD) enables young people to spend a voluntary year abroad. It combines voluntary work abroad with important intercultural learning opportunities and provides volunteers with personal, social and intercultural skills. The IJFD is regulated in the ministerial directive of December 20, 2010 - last amended on May 29, 2020

The IJFD lasts between 6 and 18 months. The service can be carried out worldwide via a German organization in non-profit organizations abroad. Educational specialists from the organization accompany the volunteers throughout their service.

In preparation for the International Youth Volunteer Service and for further support, there are seminars which can be co-designed by the volunteers. These can be held within 5 months before, during and within 6 months after the assignment abroad.

The assignment opportunities are usually in the social or ecological area as well as in peace and reconciliation work .

Application requirements :

• Completion of compulsory full-time schooling and
• not yet 27 years of age at the end of service.

During their service abroad, volunteers are covered by private insurance contracts and statutory accident insurance. insured .

As a rule, volunteers receive an allowance during their service. pocket money . In most cases board and lodging provided.

If the general legal requirements are met, child benefit is also paid during the IJFD. child benefit is paid.

Volunteers perform a full-day service at the assignment locations abroad without the intention of gainful employment, outside of vocational training. The activities are predominantly practical support activities .