Volunteer Programs in Switzerland
Featured Provider of the Month
3 Volunteer Programs in Switzerland
Volunteers For Peace
9.26
35
Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best way to meet people from all over the world. Work project types vary by country but may include environmental and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, educational and language learning, archaeology, organic farming, and arts and festivals. We also have social services projects, which could involve working with children, the elderly, or refugees. Projects are designed to combine service with recreational activities and cultural exchange – whether by visiting local beaches, learning local dances, meeting local officials, or volunteering with residents at the place you’re visiting. Each project is unique, but all bring people together for the most meaningful travel experience imaginable. Please note that VFP can only place US Citizens. This is due to our agreements with our international partners.
Synergy Village
9.33
3
The Synergy Village association manages a large property in Feldbach, ZH, located near Lake Zurich. The former farm has been transformed into a cultural center and meeting place for local and international visitors. The beautiful surroundings feature an enchanting grotto with a waterfall, idyllic gardens with secluded lounges, and a lookout at the top of the property. Synergy Village runs a café, a guesthouse, and an event venue, and organizes cultural public events. Our property features the “KREIS-Haus”, a nearly self-sufficient tiny house that operates as a field lab in collaboration with the Zurich University of Applied Sciences. Synergy Village collaborates with international volunteers and local association members to manage and maintain the property. Synergy Village aims to be a "Place of Inspiration" where people can be creative, try new things, and learn from each other. By doing so, we follow the principles of a future-oriented and sustainable way of working and living.
United Planet
0
0
Spend 6 or 12 months soaking in the stunning beauty of Switzerland while volunteering with United Planet. Located right in the heart of Europe, Switzerland lies landlocked between Austria, Germany, France, Italy, and Lichtenstein. The beautiful Alps fill the lower two-thirds of the country, creating an attraction for millions each year. Become amazed at its majesty, as it soars up an incredible 15,782 feet! This program is for citizens or residents of the United States and Canada aged 18 – 30. United Planet is the US and Canadian partner of the International Cultural Youth Exchange or ICYE. As a volunteer in Switzerland, you will be hosted by ICYE Switzerland, ICYE’s Swiss partner organization. Get ready to be “more than a tourist” as part of Switzerland’s volunteer exchange program.
A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Switzerland
Prepare for Volunteering
Set goals
Switzerland has so many cool volunteer opportunities, but figuring out what you want from the experience will make it way more meaningful. Here are some ways to set goals that actually help:
- Pick your passion. Are you more into hands-on conservation work in the Alps, helping refugees adjust to life in Switzerland, or working with local youth programs? Choose something that excites you!
- Learn something new. Maybe you want to brush up on your French, German, or Italian, or gain skills in community outreach or environmental sustainability.
- Go beyond the tourist experience. Set a goal to really experience Swiss culture, whether that means sharing meals with locals, learning traditions, or even tackling a new outdoor adventure.
Understand the benefits
Switzerland has its own distinct way of drawing people in, even volunteers. Beyond the picture-perfect landscapes, volunteering here lets you connect with the country on a whole new level. Here’s what makes it special:
- Be part of something bigger. Whether you're protecting Alpine wildlife, helping refugees settle into a new life, or working on sustainability projects, your efforts actually count. You’re not just passing through, you’re part of something bigger.
- Level up your skills. Want to practice your French, German, or Italian without boring textbooks? Or get hands-on experience in conservation or social work? Volunteering in Switzerland is a crash course in both.
- Live like a local. Weekend hikes in the Alps, cheese fondue nights, navigating Swiss efficiency, this is your chance to see Switzerland beyond the postcard-perfect views.
Things to know
Volunteering in Switzerland is an unforgettable experience, but there are a few practical things to keep in mind. Between the high cost of living and the country’s ultra-efficient way of doing things, being prepared will help you settle in smoothly.
- Switzerland is pricey, but you can budget smart - The cost of living is high, but planning ahead makes all the difference. Grocery shopping instead of eating out, sticking to local cafés, and avoiding touristy areas can save you a ton.
- Housing can make or break your budget - Some volunteer programs offer housing, often in homestays (which may include meals). If you’re finding your own place, look outside city centers for better prices.
- Visas are usually not required - If you’re staying less than three months, you likely won’t need a visa, but always check with your host organization.
- Huge benefits, a few challenges - You’ll experience one of the safest, most successful countries while making a real impact. The biggest challenge? Affordability. Fundraising and smart spending can help.
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Volunteer programs in Switzerland are available in cities like Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Lausanne. These programs often focus on community development, environmental conservation, and cultural exchange. Many NGOs and local organizations run projects, so exploring options through platforms like GoAbroad can help you find the best fit for your interests.
In Switzerland, volunteer opportunities include environmental conservation, social services, education, and cultural preservation. You might help in animal shelters, assist refugees, support elderly care, or participate in sustainable farming. Many projects focus on community impact and personal growth, making it easy to find something that fits your skills and passions.
Yes, if you're not from an EU/EFTA country, you'll typically need a visa to volunteer in Switzerland. Short-term volunteers often apply for a Schengen visa, while longer stays may require a specific permit. It's important to secure an invitation or confirmation from a Swiss host organization before applying.
The best time to volunteer in Switzerland depends on the program. Summer offers outdoor and environmental projects in the Alps, while winter may involve community support or roles at ski resorts. Spring and fall are great for year-round social and cultural programs in cities.
Volunteering in Switzerland is unique because it blends meaningful work with stunning natural scenery and rich cultural diversity. You might help in Alpine conservation by day and enjoy world-class public transport, multilingual communities, and high living standards by night—making the experience both impactful and enriching.
Latest Program Reviews
Popular Searches
to get exclusive discounts on meaningful travel programs!
Travel Tools
Recent Volunteer Abroad Articles
