Must I be British to register? Original Volunteers accepts applications from people all over the world regardless of nationality.

Volunteering can be a life-changing experience, from increased self-confidence and tolerance of other cultures to specific skills such as teaching English, putting conservation methods into practice, team working skills and new friends amongst volunteers and local people.

Original Volunteers has teamed up with grass roots organizations around the world which provide programs that are fun, rewarding, affordable, provide opportunities for learning and self-development, are meaningful for volunteers and are situated in or close to some of the world’s most incredible locations. The request for support always comes from the projects we work with so we are confident that you will be filling a gap and genuinely making a difference.

At most volunteer projects there is a degree of flexibility regarding what you can do or how you can be involved so we are confident that volunteers will find a gap that suits their skills, interests and local need. If you are not sure about volunteering, perhaps this will be your first experience of volunteering why not ask us about flexible placements where there is more than one area to work try after arrival.

Almost all Original volunteers travel alone to their destination. Rarely do two friends share the same passion for volunteering and the same budget for a trip together! (If you are going with a friend/partner lucky you!). However if you are travelling alone in most cases the only time you will be on your own is during the flight there. At most destinations you will be met on arrival and there are usually plenty of volunteers to greet you once you get to the volunteer accommodation.

Yes. Volunteers are encouraged to think carefully about the following when taking on more than one placement : do allow extra time and money for travel between the two and do not forget that there may be different requirements regarding visa and inoculations between countries.

For almost all the projects on our web site you can arrive at any time unless stated on the web page for your chosen destination. Your placement starts usually the following day after you have arrived.

British passport holders do not require visas for Latin America or South Africa. For Kenya, Nepal and Thailand visas can be obtained on arrival. For Ghana, Tanzania and India visas are required in advance and we will send you visa forms once registered. If you are not a British Passport holder please consult the nearest embassy for your destination for a tourist visa. For jabs please consult your nurse or nearest independent travel clinic and volunteers should usually allow at least 2-4 weeks depending on what is required for your destination.