Voluntary Service Visa — FSJ / BFD
Visum für Freiwilligendienste · §19c Abs. 1 Aufenthaltsgesetz in conjunction with §14 Abs. 1 Nr. 1 BeschV
What this visa is
Germany offers two main voluntary service programmes open to non-EU nationals:
FSJ — Freiwilliges Soziales Jahr (Voluntary Social Year): a full-time voluntary placement in social, cultural or sports organisations — hospitals, care homes, schools, youth centres, and more.
BFD — Bundesfreiwilligendienst (Federal Voluntary Service): similar in scope to the FSJ but open to people of all ages, not just young people.
Both programmes are widely used by international talent as a structured, low-barrier entry route into Germany. Since you earn money and accommodation is often provided, candidates do not need to find the funds for a blocked account. Moreover, finding a paid apprenticeship or employment is much easier if you are already in Germany and have learned German there — allowing participants to learn German, build a local network, and explore longer-term pathways such as an Ausbildung or skilled worker visa, all while contributing meaningfully to German society.
Who it is for
FSJ
- ✓Those aged 16 to 26 (compulsory schooling must be completed)
- ✓German language skills at A1 level are required
- ✓Must have a confirmed placement agreement with a recognised German voluntary service organisation before applying for the visa
BFD
- ✓Open to all ages (compulsory schooling must be completed); those over 27 may participate part-time
- ✓German language skills at A1 level are required
- ✓Must have a confirmed placement agreement with a recognised German voluntary service organisation before applying for the visa
- ✓No Federal Employment Agency approval is required
Key facts
- →Duration: minimum 6 months, usually 12 months, maximum 24 months
- →Participants receive pocket money, accommodation, meals and social insurance coverage — the exact amounts vary by organisation and placement
- →Additional paid employment is not permitted alongside voluntary service
- →No blocked account required — living costs are covered by the placement organisation
- →A particularly accessible route for candidates who do not yet have the German language level or qualifications for other visa types, but want to establish themselves in Germany and build towards longer-term options
How MiGreat can help
We help you find a suitable FSJ or BFD placement, review your placement agreement, and prepare your visa application so you can get to Germany and start building your future.
Find out if this visa is right for you