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Volunteer in Germany
What does it mean?
Participation of foreigners in the German voluntary service (Bundesfreiwilligendienst, BFD), a voluntary social year (Freiwilliges Soziales Jahr, FSJ) or a voluntary ecological year (Freiwilliges Ökologisches Jahr, FÖJ)
FSJ means voluntary social year. It is a voluntary, unpaid engagement for several months especially in the social sector for juveniles. More precisely, the FSJ is a social educational year for people aged 17 to 27. The compulsory education must be finished. Volunteers engage in supporting activities for example in facilities for handicapped persons, homes for the elderly or hospitals. Additionally, they participate in workshops that support the development of the personality. The participants thereby get the opportunity to gain an intensive insight into different fields of social professions.
Where and How to apply?
Visa applications can only be lodged in person by prior appointment with the German Embassy in Wellington. Honorary Consuls do not handle any visa applications.
Appointments have to be booked via our online appointment booking system
New Zealand citizens can travel visa free to Germany and can apply for the necessary permit after arrival at the local immigration office.
What do I need to fill out and provide?
Please have your complete application ready for your appointment and do not include staples, post it notes, paperclips and folders of any kind. The photograph is not allowed to be stapled, glued or blue tacked to the form.
1. Please print our your completed Visa application form
2. Required documentation according to the information sheet
3. Please read the data protection regulation
and print out the data protection signature sheet
4. Visa fee
What happens after your application
The Embassy reserves the right to request further documents or information deemed necessary for processing your application at any time and assumes no responsibility for applications submitted too close to your planned departure.
Applying for a visa does not guarantee that a visa will be issued! Once you have obtained your visa please check carefully that all entries are correct and in accordance with your application.
Upon your arrival the border authorities may examine whether the requirements for your entry continue to be valid. Entry may be refused by the border authorities although you are in possession of a valid visa. We advise you carry with you documents giving evidence to the purpose of your stay.
Helpful links:
your guide for the first weeks : Arrival App
