Volunteer Service Germany (BFD 27+) 🥇 [Top guide 2024 ]

You can apply for the Federal Volunteer Service Germany (BFD 27+) from any country in the world. We explain everything you need to know about the Federal Volunteer Service Germany (BFD 27+).

What is BFD 27+?

BFD 27+ is the Federal Volunteer Service for people older than 27 years. It differs from the “normal” BFD by some details. For example, you can do the BFD 27+ part-time, i.e. work less than 100 percent (full-time).

The most important facts about the Federal Volunteer Service Germany (BFD 27+)

The Federal Volunteer Service Germany (BFD 27+):

• Is very similar to the Voluntary Social Year and Voluntary Ecological Year in its basic features.
• is suitable for men and women from all countries
• once you have found an employer for a BFD27+, you can apply for a visa for Germany if you need one
• offers practical work experience in the field of social affairs, environment, sports, education
• lasts between 6 months and a maximum of 24 months
• is usually a full-time job (if you are older than 27, then part-time is also possible).

During the BFD 27+ you will work at a “Einsatzstelle” (Assignment site) in Germany. An “assignment site” is the employer where you do your service. Such employers can be for example: school, museum, kindergarten, nursing home, clubs.

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The Federal Volunteer Service Germany (BFD 27+): Suitable for internationals?

The Federal Volunteer Service Germany (BFD 27+) is also suitable for people over 27 if they come from abroad. If you are older than 27 and come from an international country, the BFD 27+ can offer you

Reasons to start a BFD

According to an analysis we conducted in the first half of 2022, international applicants over the age of 27 decide to participate in BFD 27+ for the following reasons:

• Finding opportunities in Germany (81%)
• Looking for a job (71%)
• No job in home country (67%)
• Improve German language skills (66%)
• Do something good (44%)
• Preparation for studies or apprenticeship (22%)
• Bridging to studies or apprenticeship program (12%)

Source: Own survey of N=213 people interested in a BFD 27+ aged 27 and older. Surveyed 1/1/2022 and 7/21/2022.

In many cases, a BFD appears more attractive to many interested parties than an internship in Germany.

Facts and figures on the Federal Volunteer Service (BFD 27+)

The Federal Volunteer Service is open to all age groups. There is no age limit. So through the Federal Volunteer Service 27+ (BFD 27+), you can also do voluntary service in Germany if you are, for example, 40 years old or older.

So it’s not unusual if you decide to do a BFD 27+ for one of the following reasons:

• Finding a break from your studies or your job, but you don’t want to stay at home, you want to be around people
• To fill the gap between one job and the next: For example, to preserve social security entitlements
• make sense of your pension or (pre)retirement: If you are older, but still active and want to be involved
• Find orientation and meaning: pursue a meaningful activity and help other people.
• However, you should keep in mind that the BFD 27+ is usually an auxiliary activity. You take on routine tasks that do not require any special qualifications.

You can work full-time or part-time. If you participate in the BFD, you will receive a small payment (“pocket money”) and a food allowance. In addition, the employer pays the costs for your social insurances.

If you participate in the Federal Volunteer Service Germany (BFD 27+), you usually also have a good opportunity for further education. You should ask your placement (school, club, care facility) right from the start how you can continue your education during your BFD in a structured and degree-oriented way.

Example of a Federal Volunteer Service Germany: Church Parish

If you do a BFD 27+ in a church community in Germany, you will actively work in the local community. Among other things, you can participate in pastoral care or specialize in working with children and young people.

Depending on your aptitudes, interests and abilities, you can work in the following areas:

• Participation in church services
• Event management
• Organization
• Childcare and youth care (homework supervision, basel afternoons, excursions)
• Collaboration in the social institutions of the community.

In Germany, there are suitable church congregations of various denominations in at least every major city. Not all of them advertise BFD positions. If you want to do a service in a particular church, you should contact them directly.

Example of a Federal Volunteer Service Germany: School

You can also do a Federal Volunteer Service Germany in a school in Germany. This will give you a deep insight into the extensive tasks involved in running a German school. This is ideal if you want to work as an educator in Germany or abroad.

Your tasks in a Federal Volunteer Service at a school can be, for example:

• Assistance in foreign language classes
• Individual supervision of students in need of support
• Supervision of study groups and interest groups
• Accompanying students in their daily lives
• Helping with the school newspaper
• Writing the school chronicle
• Event management (for example, graduation ceremonies).

There are also schools in almost every major city in Germany. Many special schools, secondary modern schools and secondary modern schools offer places for a BFD. But you can also do a Federal Volunteer Service Germany at high schools, vocational colleges, Studienkolleg in Germany and universities.

Example of a Federal Volunteer Service Germany: Kindergarten

You can also do your BFD 27+ in kindergartens and daycare centers in Germany. Depending on the orientation, tradition and commitment of the kindergarten, there are various possibilities for tasks in the Federal Volunteer Service here:

• targeted development of individual children
• playing, crafting, reading, moving and making music together
• event management
• Help with housekeeping activities in the kindergarten (reception, keeping lists, help with catering, cleaning up)
• Diapering of small children.

Many international applicants decide to do this kind of work in order to be able to switch to an apprenticeship program to become a kindergarten teacher and to secure a practical position for an apprenticeship.

Where can I find a place for BFD 27+?

You can search on the job portal of the German Federal Employment Agency for currently available places. Organizations that regularly offer many BFD places include Arbeiterwohlfahrt, the German Red Cross, the Paritätische Wohlfahrtsverband, Caritas and Diakonie.

Visa Process for BFD 27+ Participants from Non-EU Countries

For individuals over the age of 27 from outside the European Union interested in participating in the BFD 27+ (Federal Voluntary Service for adults), navigating the visa process is crucial. Unlike younger volunteers, BFD 27+ participants typically have established careers or families and thus may require additional information and support to meet German immigration requirements. The visa needed is generally a national visa (Type D) that allows entry for volunteer work, and the process can vary based on the applicant’s country, personal background, and the German embassy or consulate processing the application.

Visa Documentation and Requirements

The documentation for the BFD 27+ visa is straightforward, yet each requirement must be met precisely:

1. Invitation Letter from the Hosting Organization: The volunteer must have a formal invitation from the German organization offering the BFD placement. This letter typically includes a description of the volunteer’s role, confirms that the organization is officially recognized for BFD placements, and indicates that the participant will be involved in meaningful service activities within a specific area, like healthcare, education, or community services.
2. Proof of Financial Stability: Applicants must show that they have enough resources to support themselves during their stay, either through personal savings or financial support from the host organization. Since BFD 27+ positions often include a stipend or living allowance, this can usually serve as proof, supplemented by personal funds if needed.
3. Health Insurance: Health insurance is a key requirement for international volunteers. The policy must meet EU standards, including comprehensive coverage for hospital care, accidents, and emergency services. Some host organizations may offer insurance packages or help participants find affordable options.
4. Language Skills: Some embassies may require proof of basic German language skills, typically at A1 or A2 level, to ensure that participants can navigate daily life in Germany. However, this depends on the consulate and the type of placement.

Visa Application Steps

The application process typically involves submitting forms and attending an interview at the German consulate or embassy in the applicant’s home country. Here’s a general overview:

• Document Submission: The applicant needs to submit forms like the visa application, a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and the invitation from the hosting organization. They may also need to show bank statements or other proof of financial support.
• Visa Interview: Many consulates require a brief interview to assess the applicant’s motivation and to verify their knowledge of the BFD program. Questions may touch on the applicant’s experience, goals for participating, and understanding of German customs or the organization they will work with.
• Final Steps in Germany: Once the visa is approved and the participant arrives in Germany, they must register at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) and visit the foreigner’s office (Ausländerbehörde) for final residency documentation, which finalizes their legal standing in Germany.

Navigating the visa process can be time-consuming but is manageable with preparation. A well-supported application can make this journey far smoother, allowing volunteers to focus on the transformative experience of the BFD 27+.

Recognized Qualifications and Career Development in BFD 27+

The BFD 27+ is not just a volunteer opportunity; it’s a path to new professional skills and career insights. Many participants enter the program as a way to refocus their careers, gain qualifications relevant to Germany’s job market, and even open doors to long-term employment in fields like healthcare, education, and social services.

Valuable Skills and Certifications

Participants receive official documentation of their role and contributions, which helps with job applications or future educational pursuits. Here’s what volunteers can typically expect:

• First Aid and Nursing Basics: For those working in medical or care settings, training in first aid, basic caregiving, or patient assistance is often provided. These certifications are respected in Germany, especially for anyone interested in future roles in healthcare or elder care.
• Communication and Conflict Resolution: Many BFD placements involve roles that build interpersonal skills, from teaching or tutoring to community service. Participants may attend workshops on mediation, cultural sensitivity, and handling challenging social situations, all of which are critical for roles in education, counseling, and social work.
• Practical Work and Technical Skills: Depending on the placement, volunteers may learn hands-on skills like facility maintenance, administrative tasks, or computer skills for project management. Such experience can be beneficial for transitioning to a variety of sectors in Germany.

Pathways to Employment

A key benefit of the BFD 27+ is its reputation among German employers, particularly in fields experiencing high demand, such as healthcare, education, and non-profit work. Many BFD alumni find that their experience and certification make them competitive in the job market, with some able to transition directly into employment with their host organizations.

Moreover, many organizations offer career counseling to help participants develop their skills, update their resumes, and connect with potential employers. This support makes the BFD 27+ an ideal bridge for those interested in a long-term career in Germany.

Support and Integration for Older Volunteers in BFD 27+

The BFD 27+ is unique because it’s tailored to adults with different life experiences and often different motivations compared to younger volunteers. Many participants come with professional backgrounds, life skills, and family responsibilities. Recognizing this, Germany provides integration and support services specifically designed for BFD 27+ volunteers.

Integration Programs and Community Networks

Several organizations facilitate BFD placements and go beyond job roles to offer full support networks that include:

• Mentorship Programs: BFD 27+ mentors are often former volunteers who help new participants navigate their roles, understand German workplace culture, and find resources for any challenges they face.
• Workshops and Social Events: Frequent workshops on German culture, regional tours, and social events are arranged to help volunteers build a community and feel at home. These programs are especially beneficial for those without family nearby.
• Local Community Centers: Many towns have community centers dedicated to supporting adult learners and volunteers. These centers provide spaces for cultural exchange, offer German language classes, and serve as social hubs for BFD participants.

Emotional and Social Support Services

Many BFD 27+ volunteers are moving to a new country, often alone, and dealing with the emotional demands of a new career focus or even a major life transition. Recognizing this, Germany offers a range of psychosocial services for participants, which may include counseling, peer support groups, and guidance on work-life balance in a new cultural context.

For many older adults, the BFD 27+ is a fulfilling experience but also a demanding one. The resources and networks in place make it easier to adjust and find satisfaction in this new chapter of life.

Typical Areas of Work and Roles for BFD 27+ Participants

BFD 27+ roles are diverse and designed to leverage the experience and maturity that older volunteers bring. Common placements include social services, healthcare, and educational settings where patience, life experience, and empathy are assets.

Primary Work Areas for BFD 27+ Volunteers

Volunteers also support community centers, environmental groups, and cultural initiatives, taking on roles that range from event coordination to offering practical assistance to those in need.

Language Requirements and Support Programs in BFD 27+

A foundational knowledge of German is essential for most BFD 27+ positions, as it enables volunteers to communicate with colleagues, understand safety protocols, and connect with those they serve. Many organizations help by providing access to language courses tailored to the needs of volunteers in specific fields.

Language Training and Development

To meet the demands of volunteer work, BFD 27+ participants can access various language resources:

• Intensive Courses: Before starting their roles, many participants attend intensive German courses to build essential skills. These courses focus on everyday vocabulary and practical communication skills.
• Work-Specific Language Classes: For roles in healthcare, education, or administration, organizations may offer specialized language training that includes sector-specific vocabulary and scenarios.
• Ongoing Language Support: Volunteers often have access to continued language support during their service, enabling them to improve progressively and gain confidence.

Advantages of Language Skills for Future Opportunities

Language proficiency not only helps in daily tasks but also significantly increases the volunteer’s potential for a smooth transition to employment in Germany. Many employers value German language skills and practical experience as essential for professional integration, making BFD 27+ volunteers particularly competitive in the job market.

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