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Published: 01/05/2013 12:30

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european youth portal

European Voluntary Service: what is it really?

Are you between 18 and 30 and willing to spend from 2 to 12 months abroad as an EVS volunteer?

How does it work?

An EVS  project is a partnership between two or more promoting organisations. These promoters are responsible for recruiting volunteers for their project.

Volunteers participate in EVS through a Sending Organisation in the country where they live and a Host Organisation that receives and hosts them during their period of service.


You will receive free accommodation, food, insurance and pocket money. The only thing you might have to pay is a small part (maximum 10%) of your travel costs.


"The action is immensely valuable and provides opportunities to many young people who would otherwise not get the chance to travel and experience other cultures" 
K. Rice - EVS volunteer in England


How can you apply?

If you are between 18 and 30 (or at least 16 if you are from a disadvantaged background), you have two options:

1. Contact an organisation  that is recruiting volunteers for a granted project OR

2. Contact an organisation to discuss starting a project

To contact an organisation, consult the database of accredited organisations.

You can check the list of eligible countries in the Programme Guide.


Read more about the EVS at the website of the Swiss National Agency of the Youth in Action programme.