Long-term programmes

ICYE’s long-term exchanges offer young people aged 18 to 30 (and above 30 in certain countries) the chance to volunteer abroad in local community projects, with or without prior qualifications after secondary school or during your university studies or (un)employment, while experience living in another country with a host family or in a residential project.

Volunteering with ICYE is about active participation, solidarity, and social change. Volunteers become part of the life and work of their host organisation and local community, taking on responsibilities that match their skills, interests, and the needs of the project.

Each year, ICYE connects over 400 young people with volunteering projects lasting from six to twelve months.

In collaboration with local communities, volunteers live and work at the heart of projects developed by and for locals. These placements span areas such as environmental protection, education, socio-cultural activities, and combating inequality, serving as tools for local development and community education in the public interest.

These individual projects provide a high level of autonomy, as participants do not always join pre-formed groups. The number of volunteers varies depending on the period, and you will often collaborate with other local and international volunteers.

Our programmes are open to all motivated volunteers, offering a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where everyone can contribute, learn, and grow.

Volunteers with disabilities are encouraged to submit applications at least six months before the programme starts. This allows ICYE and the National Committee in your chosen country to make appropriate arrangements to support your participation. Please note that Personal Assistants must be recruited and funded by you or by a suitable organisation.

More than travel, more than living abroad — ICYE is a full transformative experience · More than travel, more than living abroad — ICYE is a full transformative experience ·

Before your departure

Our global network of ICYE staff and co-workers carefully select and prepare programme participants before departure. Each ICYE National Committee organises information and recruitment days and a “pre-departure camp” where you can meet fellow-volunteers and share excitement, expectations and fears about the experience abroad.

During your project abroad

Upon arrival you will attend an “orientation camp” during which you will have the chance to learn more about the people and culture of the host country, the local ICYE member and your work placement. You will receive an introductory language course. You will live with a family or in a shared flat, and work as a volunteer in a local project for 6 or 12 months.

The “mid-year camp” is a chance to catch up with other volunteers and evaluate your first six months with the ICYE hosting committee.

The last official meeting for volunteers is the “end-of-stay evaluation”, where you will discuss your experiences, reflect on the competences your strengthened and and prepare to return home – which is often the hardest part!

Returning Home

Upon your return home, your sending National Committee will organise a “returnee camp” together with other returning volunteers. You will also be invited to join ICYE’s membership scheme in your country that will give you access to national and international events, meetings and seminars.

How do I apply?

To find out more about the ICYE volunteering programme, including project details, costs, and other participation conditions, please contact the ICYE office in your home country to get guidance on available opportunities, application procedures, and support throughout your volunteering experience.

As a global federation, ICYE does not register or host volunteers directly, so your national office is the best place to get guidance on available opportunities, application procedures, and support throughout your volunteering experience.

For how long can I volunteer? 

ICYE long-terme projects run between 6 months and one year and usually start in August-September or in January-February.

How old do I have to be?

Placements are open to anyone aged 18 to 30 (and above 30 in certain countries). We welcome all young people motivated to contribute, learn, and grow in solidarity with communities worldwide.

Where will I live or eat?

Most of the volunteers live with local host families selected by ICYE staff in the host country, providing an authentic opportunity to immerse yourself in daily life and culture. Some placements are in residential projects or shared flats with other international volunteers. Meals are usually provided: breakfast and dinner by the host family and lunch by the volunteering placement.

Funded volunteering opportunities

ICYE works with public programmes such as Erasmus+, the European Solidarity Corps, and national volunteering initiatives to make international exchange and volunteering accessible to more young people. For decades, we have supported youth mobility and ethical volunteering through community-based projects that focus on learning, solidarity, and social change. From Erasmus+ to the European Solidarity Corps and government programmes like Weltwärts, these initiatives enable young people to live intercultural experiences, build skills, and take action for justice and inclusion. Across all programmes, ICYE stands for volunteering that is youth-led, responsible, and rooted in mutual exchange.

Our partners

We work with the support of or in cooperation with: