Help Those Most in Need

Volunteering abroad means traveling to another country to perform humanitarian or environmental service by contributing to various organized projects. Volunteer organizations arrange accommodation, meals, and local support for international volunteers during their volunteering duration.

Certainly. Not only do volunteers create a positive impact on the local communities and the environment, but they also achieve both personal and professional development through new working experiences and learning valuable work skills. With perfectly balanced schedules, as we offer in IFRE, volunteers get to explore and immerse themselves in fun activities abroad while contributing their time to service.

Anyone aged 18 or older is welcome to join, including students, professionals from various fields, gap-year travelers, and retirees. Minors aged 16 and 17 can still participate with parental consent. Couples, families, and groups are also suited to join with duty-sharing opportunities. Most programs do not require prior experience, and having it serves as an addition.

Yes. Volunteer abroad projects are beginner-friendly and include orientation sessions, guidance, on-ground support, as well as the opportunity to work alongside fellow volunteers.

Yes. Volunteering abroad is safe with well-structured programs, proper orientation, safe housing, and local support. In addition to all these, IFRE also provides incoming volunteers with pre-departure guidance, safety-related awareness, and offers ongoing in-country assistance available to volunteers at all times.

Safe and ethical volunteer abroad programs are transparent about their fees, clearly define volunteer roles, prioritize community needs, and have a proven track record. IFRE follows these principles by charging affordable and transparent fees that directly contribute to volunteer projects and cater to the needs of volunteers, such as safe housing and nutritious local meals. We operate established projects that adhere to local guidelines and international safety standards.

Voluntourism focuses on the travel experience of individuals and bypasses real community benefit. It is a superficial way to gain volunteering experience without really having to do much for the community. In contrast, responsible volunteering focuses on ethical work, sustainability, and long-term impact. IFRE’s volunteer projects across 19 destinations follow responsible volunteering initiatives where volunteers are expected to fully contribute their skills and time to benefit the social cause the project is supporting.

IFRE places volunteers where they are truly needed. We offer meaningful volunteer roles and regular project monitoring. All our projects follow local guidelines, and volunteers are oriented on do’s and don’ts and safety practices beforehand.

Selecting a volunteer program abroad should be based on:

• Your skills and area of interest (childcare, teaching English, healthcare, medical projects, and conservation)
• Your availability and preferred length of stay (short-term or long-term)
• The level of support you need upon arrival, including safe accommodation, meals, and in-country support

If you inquire with IFRE, we will provide you with a detailed explanation of daily tasks and schedules involved in our various volunteering abroad programs, so that you can decide the most suitable program for you with confidence.

All our volunteer programs are suited for first-time volunteers. We provide proper orientation before you start your placement, and local staff will be there to assist you. You will serve in your own capacity and will not be expected to perform duties that your skills do not allow for. Childcare, teaching English, and conservation programs are popular among first-time volunteers.

The best international volunteer programs are structured with defined work for volunteers, have local supervision, follow local health and safety guidelines, and have continuity beyond volunteers. IFRE operates ongoing volunteering projects where volunteers support existing staff rather than replace them.

Avoid programs that cannot clearly explain what you will do, who supervises the work, and how the project helps the local community. Ethical volunteer abroad programs work closely with local staff, have clearly defined roles, and provide placements to volunteers on ongoing projects only where their help is genuinely needed.

Selecting a volunteer abroad organization can be a demanding task. Here are important matters to keep in mind:

• Proven experience and track record in the field
• Local management of projects
• What accommodation, meals, and support are included
• How your program fees are used

There are numerous affordable volunteering projects you can participate in abroad. You can choose which project best aligns with your personal interests, values, and area of work or study. IFRE offers various volunteer projects in childcare, teaching, healthcare, community development, and conservation. Our clearly defined volunteer abroad projects and volunteer roles are explained in a dedicated webpage for each program in all available destinations, enabling volunteers to know their roles clearly.

Yes! Childcare, teaching, healthcare, and conservation projects are available year-round across multiple destinations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. IFRE has 20 years of experience in operating these highly impactful volunteer abroad projects.

Yes. Volunteer abroad programs are designed to suit beginners and do not require prior experience of any kind. Volunteers are offered comprehensive orientation sessions and local supervision throughout their placements. IFRE only expects interest, motivation, and dedication from the volunteers.

Yes. Short-term volunteering is open in all of IFRE’s volunteer projects. You can volunteer for only a week or two, or extend your volunteering up to twelve weeks. It is ideal for students, working professionals, or travelers with limited time to spend abroad or in service. As a short-term volunteer in a project and destination of your choice, you will contribute to existing local projects with your time, skills, and dedication.

Yes. Short-term volunteers help reduce workload for local staff, provide individual attention to children or patients, introduce fresh and innovative ideas to the project, and support daily activities that might otherwise be limited. IFRE gives clear responsibilities, proper guidance, and well-needed placements so your presence adds real value. Volunteers are expected to fully contribute their time, energy, and skills to the projects.

Yes. Long-term volunteering with IFRE often comes with greater responsibility, such as leading activities, mentoring local staff, and supporting program development. Volunteers are expected to contribute based on their skills, commitment, and project needs. With that, IFRE programs do not allow placements to become exhausting for volunteers; schedules serve a perfect balance of service and time for leisure and fun activities.

Your dedicated time will be beneficial for both you and the community you serve, whether it is for a short or longer period. Short-term volunteering abroad is ideal for participants with limited time but a genuine interest in contributing to local communities and experiencing a foreign culture firsthand. You will quickly get involved in ongoing projects and contribute your skills to them.

On the other hand, long-term volunteering abroad will allow you to develop a deeper understanding of the project you are working on and create a more lasting impact, and strengthen community relationships. Long-term volunteering will result in more experiential learning, although both types of volunteering will be a rewarding experience for you.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your available time, personal goals, and the level of involvement you want.

The best countries to volunteer abroad span Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Top Volunteering Abroad Destinations are:

• KH – Cambodia
• CR – Costa Rica
• EC – Ecuador
• GT – Guatemala
• IN – India
• KE – Kenya
• MX – Mexico
• NP – Nepal
• PE – Peru
• LK – Sri Lanka
• ZA – South Africa
• TZ – Tanzania
• UG – Uganda
• TH – Thailand
• MR – Morocco

Choosing a volunteer destination can be confusing, with so many options available. The key factors you need to keep in mind while selecting a volunteer destination.

• You should search for where your desired volunteer project is available.
• You should match your skills with destination needs since specific volunteering destinations are in high need of volunteers with specific skills to support local communities.
• You will have to compare total costs, including program fees, flights from your home country, accommodation, meals, personal expenses, transport, and visas in different volunteering destinations.
• It is a good idea to review the safety ratings of the volunteering destination abroad, political stability, health risks associated with travelling to the destination, and local guidelines.
• You will also have to consider language barriers you may face in the destination (for example, if the destination has a primarily French, Spanish, or Portuguese-speaking population), availability of a specific diet (such as Halal, Kosher, Vegan, and Vegetarian), and whether you will be able to adjust in rural areas with minimal facilities.
• Living with local host families or volunteer houses in same-gendered shared rooms is common in various volunteer placements, but varies by destination; choose according to your comfort level.
• The destination should cater to your volunteering plans, whether short-term, long-term, gap-year, or summer programs.
• It is crucial to check if you need a tourist visa, a volunteer visa, or specific documents and a recommendation letter or approval before arrival, depending on your nationality.

Asia is generally the most budget-friendly for volunteers, with low-cost meals, transportation, and daily living, as well as affordable shopping and leisure activities.

Africa has numerous community and wildlife programs at affordable prices, but has slightly higher transport costs and expenses regarding leisure and fun activities. Latin America generally sits in the mid-range; it has moderate living expenses and popular adventure activities.

The best season to volunteer abroad depends on the volunteer destination. Here’s what you should expect by region:

• Best Season to Volunteer Abroad in Asia : In Asia, the best time to volunteer is generally October to March, after the monsoon season. This period offers more comfortable temperatures, especially in countries like Nepal, northern India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.
• Best Season to Volunteer Abroad in Africa: In Africa, the best season is typically the dry season from June to October, ideal for community work, conservation, and outdoor volunteering in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
• Best Season to Volunteer Abroad in Latin America: In Latin America, the best time to volunteer is often during the drier months from December to April, particularly for countries like Costa Rica, Peru, Ecuador, and Guatemala.

Here are the crucial considerations to make:

• Check seasonal weather in your volunteering destination before booking.
• Pack clothing for variable temperatures, since temperatures can change dramatically from one season to another.
• Prepare for humidity and safe sun exposure in tropical climates with sunscreen, hats, scarves, and breathable fabrics.
• If you prefer mild temperatures due to health reasons, choose your destination accordingly.

Yes. All international volunteering requires a valid passport. Ensure it is valid for at least six months beyond your return date and has sufficient blank pages for visas and entry stamps.

In most countries, yes. For many short-term trips, volunteering on a tourist visa may be permitted; however, for longer programs, this usually requires a volunteer visa or work permit.

Depending on the country:

• Volunteer Visa: Some countries will have a visa specifically for volunteering.
• Work visa: Some of them require a short-term work visa, even for unpaid volunteering.
• Tourist visa: It is allowed only in some countries, for short-term volunteering.

IFRE guides documentation, required for the particular destination that volunteers are taking.

Yes, volunteering has different rules in every country. To accurately verify this, always look at official government guidelines, as visa type, allowed duration, and entry requirements change from time to time.

You should apply 2-3 months before the beginning of your program for the processing of applications, appointments, and possible delays. Other countries may take longer, especially if travel is during peak season.

The time taken for the processing of a visa application depends on the country.

• Quick: 1 - 2 weeks in some countries
• Average: 4–6 weeks in some countries
• Long: 2-3 months in some countries

Yes. IFRE provides:

• Invitation letters or program confirmation
• Guidance on visa application forms and other documents
• Tips on embassy requirements to improve the chances of visa acceptance

Yes, in some countries. Short-term volunteering is permitted on a tourist visa (< 3 months). Meanwhile, for more extended placements, it’s better and obligatory to obtain a volunteer or work visa instead. Without a proper visa for volunteering, one may face fines and deportation, or restrictions on entry into a country.

For international volunteer work, one needs to be motivated, flexible, and ready to be an understanding participant in local cultures. Most volunteer programs require volunteers to be able to communicate in English, be in good physical and mental health, and be interested in helping the project.

Volunteer programs are for those who are 18 years and older. Some projects may accept volunteers who are still young (Ages 16 and 17) with consent from a parent or guardian.

Absolutely! Many students like to volunteer during the summer holidays, winter holidays, or semester breaks. IFRE Volunteers provides flexible program lengths, making it convenient for students wishing to earn international experience credit without having to drop studies.

No, you do not have to have any working experience to join our volunteer programs.

Yes, minors aged 16 and 17 can participate in volunteer abroad programs, with the submission of a signed parental or legal guardian consent form.

Minors should also provide other supporting documents, such as a parent or guardian’s ID copy, emergency contact information, and other relevant information. Depending on the destination country, additional permissions may be required. IFRE will guide you through this process.

Yes. Minors aged 16 and 17 will be required to submit a signed parental or legal guardian consent form. This will ensure parents and guardians of minor volunteers approve their child/ward’s international travel, participation in IFRE’s volunteer program, and agree to the housing, meals, and supervision provided by IFRE during the volunteering duration.

Yes, absolutely! You can volunteer abroad with a friend, partner, or travel companion. Many IFRE welcomes couples and friends, and they are placed in the same project and accommodation. This is a great opportunity for sharing responsibilities, peer learning, and fostering deeper connections.

Yes, IFRE Volunteers offers family-friendly volunteer abroad programs. These programs allow parents and children to volunteer together while participating in age-appropriate activities. Family volunteering is a great way to share meaningful family moments, teach children and young adults the value of service, and learn about new cultures as a family.

Yes, student groups, clubs, and organizations are welcome to volunteer together. IFRE Volunteers supports group volunteering for schools, universities, youth organizations, and professional groups. We tailor the volunteer placements to match the group’s interests, skills, and time availability.

Group applications may be eligible for some reductions in program fees. Depending on the group size, destination, and program duration, some discounts or cost adjustments may be offered, along with added support such as shared accommodations and coordinated placements. We encourage interested groups to contact us in advance so we can review available options and provide the best possible arrangements for your team.

The cost of volunteering abroad depends on the destination, program duration, and project type. IFRE Volunteers aims to keep programs affordable while ensuring safe and comfortable volunteer experiences. Volunteers pay a fixed registration fee of $299 and program fees weekly starting at just $150. The program fees cover accommodation, meals, airport pick up, orientation, local supervision, and in-country support.

In reality, participation fees help to pay for the real costs of managing volunteer programs. These costs include accommodation and meals, support from local staff, management of project operations, safety measures, and payments to host communities. The fees ensure the projects are run in a manner that is sustainable and that the volunteers are supported during their stay.

The program cost generally includes accommodation, meals, airport pickup, orientation, in-country support, project placement, and local coordinators.

No, international flights are not included in the volunteer abroad program fee. It gives volunteers the flexibility to choose airlines, travel dates, and routes that better suit their budget and schedule.

To find affordable options, consider choosing programs in developing countries due to lower living costs and traveling during off-peak seasons to ensure flight tickets do not cost you a lot. IFRE’s affordable volunteer abroad programs are highly impactful and have been trusted by over 22,000 international volunteers since 2006. As a registered non-profit, IFRE offers the most affordable program fees with professional field volunteer support and ample opportunities for cultural immersion and travel.

Yes. IFRE’s weekly program fees start at just $150 to allow accessible and low-cost volunteering abroad. Your fees are used in a fully transparent way: 50% covers accommodation and meals, while the remaining 50% directly supports local projects and community initiatives. We do not charge any hidden fees, making international volunteering affordable for high schoolers.

No. We do not offer scholarships. Since our fees are already as low as possible to cover accommodation, meals, and project support, we are not able to offer any fee waivers. For those in need of funding, IFRE provides fundraising ideas and all necessary supportive documents.

Yes. Volunteers can explore diverse ways to fundraise for their volunteering mission abroad. Here are some ways to get financial support:

• Inquire about government or educational funding programs you may be eligible for
• Research nonprofit and foundation grants supporting international volunteers
• Launch a crowdfunding campaign on popular sites to cover expenses
• Seek support from your employer and/or school
• Request support from local community groups, churches, or clubs
• Apply to multiple funding sources so that you receive the maximum support

It is very easy to apply with IFRE Volunteers. You can choose any program from our website, fill out the online application form, and submit it. Our team will review your application and will guide you through each step, making the whole process smooth and stress-free for you.

You can apply year-round to any of the IFRE Volunteers' programs. We encourage applicants to apply 4–8 weeks in advance to allow for ample time to confirm placement, prepare travel, and make any necessary visa arrangements.

Once you apply, the IFRE Volunteers team reviews your application and contacts you about what to do next. Details of the program, cost, and how to prepare, travel, and get to the placement upon arrival would then be provided. There will also be support from local coordinators before and during the volunteering process.

Yes, in most cases, you can change your program after applying, depending on availability and timelines. IFRE understands that plans can change, and our team will help you switch to another suitable program.

Yes, it is possible to apply to more than one volunteer program. Our staff will be available to help you make a comparison to ensure the selection is the best fit for you.

Bring your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, flight tickets, and IFRE Volunteers program confirmation. Carry printed and digital copies of all important documents, including emergency contacts and accommodation details.

Comfortable and modest clothes are best for volunteering abroad. Lightweight, breathable clothes are ideal. In many destinations, clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended. IFRE will provide destination-specific guidance on clothing before departure.

Pack comfortable, closed-toe shoes for daily volunteering. These are essential for teaching, childcare, construction, or conservation work. You may also pack sandals and flip-flops for personal time.

Most projects provide all the necessary materials. Other items helpful in the project are appreciated. Bring small, lightweight items such as notebooks, flashcards, or reusable supplies if you want.

You should carry enough personal prescription medication in its original packaging, along with a basic first-aid kit. Other common items include pain relievers, insect repellent, sunscreen, motion-sickness tablets, and hand sanitizer.

A mobile phone, charger, and universal travel adapter are recommended. A power bank is useful, especially in areas with limited electricity.

Reusable water bottle, toiletries, towel, wet wipes, small backpack, copies of emergency contacts, and comfortable sleepwear are commonly overlooked but important.

Gifts are not required. If you wish to contribute, IFRE Volunteers recommends small, practical items or donating through local coordinators to ensure appropriate help.

Yes. Most daily necessities such as toiletries, snacks, and basic clothing are available locally. Purchasing locally also supports the host community. However, if you are particular about using products of certain brands, it is better to bring enough supplies for your volunteer duration.

We recommend you pack one main suitcase or backpack and one small daypack. Traveling light makes movement, storage, and daily activities easier, especially in shared or rural accommodations.

Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for participating in all IFRE Volunteer programs. It covers medical emergencies, accidents, and trip interruptions. Having insurance ensures you are well-protected during your volunteering placement, giving you and IFRE staff peace of mind.

Recommended and required vaccines depend on the destination. IFRE Volunteers provides destination-specific health guidance before departure. Common recommendations include routine vaccines like tetanus, hepatitis A/B, and typhoid. Volunteers should consult their doctor or a travel clinic well in advance before traveling.

If you become ill or injured, IFRE’s local coordinators will ensure you get proper medical attention right away. You will be allowed to rest and continue your placement after you get well, or extend the duration of your stay if you wish to do so. Volunteer safety and health are a top priority in all our programs.

During your volunteer placement abroad, you will be accommodated in a safe and comfortable home provided by a local host family. The homes are secure and have basic facilities. In some countries and depending on the project, you will stay in a secure volunteer hostel or in the project site itself.

Yes. IFRE’s weekly program fees include three traditional and delicious meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) every day for volunteers. In some placements, lunch can be arranged independently, giving you the chance to explore local eateries.

IFRE makes every effort to accommodate the dietary preferences and restrictions of our volunteers. Please inform IFRE about your dietary preferences beforehand, so that we can plan your meals accordingly.

During your life abroad as an international volunteer, you will live on a dedicated but flexible schedule. IFRE volunteering programs are scheduled in a way that volunteers get the perfect balance of service and leisure time for exploration and fun activities.

Here is an overview of what your daily schedule generally looks like:

• 7.00 AM – 7.30 AM – Enjoy a delicious breakfast and get ready to start your day
• 7.45 AM – After breakfast, you will head to your project site (schools/orphanages/local hospitals and clinics, conservation sites, etc.)
• 12.00 PM – Lunch break: Enjoy a delicious traditional meal with your host and fellow volunteers
• 3.00 PM– You will complete your volunteer service for the day at this time. Now you can freely explore nearby places
• 6.45 PM–A great time to enjoy a delicious traditional meal with your host and fellow volunteers

Volunteers work for 4 to 5 hours on weekdays (Monday- Friday) in each project across 19 destinations. This allows for local exploration and other leisure activities you might want to pursue during your time abroad.

Yes! You will be happy to learn that you will have plenty of free time during the evenings and weekends. Moreover, IFRE staff will give you advice, travel tips, and help you book your tours and excursions. Free time will allow you to fully immerse yourself abroad and experience new sites and activities actively, while performing humanitarian and environmental service.

Yes! All volunteers receive a certificate of completion at the end of their program. This certificate highlights volunteers’ contributions, skills gained, and the volunteer project. It is especially helpful for building an impressive CV and Resume.

Absolutely. Volunteering abroad demonstrates initiative, adaptability, teamwork, and cross-cultural skills, which are highly valued by employers, organizations, and educational institutions.

Most certainly. Volunteering abroad enhances your career and academic profile. It gives you hands-on experience, global exposure, and practical skills in areas like teaching, conservation, childcare, or community development. Universities and employers recognize international volunteering as a sign of global awareness, good character, and leadership.

After your program, IFRE Volunteers provides guidance for staying connected with IFRE. You’ll have the opportunity to share your experiences, continue supporting projects remotely, receive a certificate of appreciation, and be able to leverage your skills and experience for future studies, internships, or jobs.

IFRE welcomes and encourages re-volunteering, giving volunteers the chance to return, explore new projects, and continue contributing to a better world.