Have you ever thought about leaving for a few months, living in another country doing something useful, but you gave up because you didn’t know how to afford it? The European Solidarity Corps is a European Union program that allows young people to participate in volunteering projects, putting themselves to the test in new contexts without having to bear all the costs of a normal trip.
Volunteering abroad: but how much does it really cost me?
Leaving for an experience abroad can seem like a luxury, especially when you have to take into account tickets, rent and daily expenses. The voluntary activities of the European Solidarity Corps instead provide a series of concrete supports: the essential costs of round trip travel, food, accommodation and insurance coverage are included according to the rules of the program.
There is also a contribution for small personal expenses, as well as support services such as training and language support. It is therefore not a paid job, but a volunteer experience with the main participation costs covered. To find out the specific conditions, it is however important to always read the individual project sheet and the instructions of the organization proposing it.
Who can leave? (Spoiler: you don’t need a super CV)
The European Solidarity Corps is aimed primarily at young people between 18 and 30 years old. For volunteering activities in the humanitarian aid sector, the age limit reaches 35 years. It is possible to register on the portal at the age of 17, but to start a business you must be at least 18 years old.
It is not necessary to already have a CV full of experience or to know the language of the destination country perfectly. However, you must respect the requirements of the opportunity chosen and verify that it is open to those residing in Italy. Each project may include specific conditions, so it is advisable to read the description carefully before applying.
From biodiversity to theatre: 4 opportunities to discover
In Ecuador, discovering biodiversity: what if your next project was to explore Ecuadorian nature? In Quito you can participate in field activities to observe flora and fauna, document species and create social content together with young people from the local community. An experience that combines environmental protection, communication and participation, scheduled from 1 February to 31 August 2027. Discover the project and the requirements to apply.
In Germany, between stage and festival: If you love theater and performing arts, STUDIO 7 Theater, in Schwerte, offers the possibility of collaborating on shows, festivals and cultural projects. You will also be able to contribute to the organization of events and educational activities, working with people of different ages. The experience is scheduled from November 1, 2026 to October 31, 2027. Find out all the details.
In the Netherlands, telling the story of the museum of the future: In Eindhoven you can test your creativity by creating content for Instagram, TikTok and other social channels, talking about exhibitions and events and contributing to communication campaigns. The Next Nature project is designed for those interested in storytelling, video and digital communication and will take place from 4 January to 31 December 2027. Read the official sheet.
In Nepal, alongside local communities: Here volunteering translates into educational activities with boys and girls, initiatives for female autonomy and projects to support and recover local communities affected by floods. An experience of international solidarity, scheduled until 1 April 2027, for those who wish to put themselves at the service of others in a context different from their own. Consult the sheet and check the requirements.
These are just a few examples: on the European Youth Portal you will find many other opportunities, from environmental protection to culture, up to education and social inclusion. Each project has its activities, dates and requirements: consult the official sheet to understand if it is right for you and check how to apply.
From “I would like to” to “how do I do it?”: we talk about it live on YouTube
How do you find the right project? How do you apply? And what expenses are covered? We will talk about it on Tuesday 10 November 2026, at 5pm, in a live online broadcast on the GreenMe YouTube channel, as part of the Green EU&ME project.
Joining us will be Leonardo Dongiovanni (European Commission), Silvia Zandomeneghi (Joint Association) and the direct testimony of those who have already lived an ESC experience. We will answer your questions in chat to help you move from theory to practice!
BOOK YOUR FREE PLACE HERE
Green EU&ME | Let’s tell young people about Europe
Project co-financed by the European Union.
The opinions expressed, however, belong to the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the European Union or of the Representation in Italy of the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the providing administration can be held responsible.
