Volunteer in Sweden

How to Volunteer in Sweden

Sweden has given the world the Nobel Peace Prize, Swedish meatballs as well as ABBA, IKEA and H&M. If you would like to give something back then volunteering could be for you.

Volunteering is very popular with international students studying in Sweden and also people seeking to experience the highlights of the country whilst getting to give something back. If you would like to live and work in Sweden long term then volunteering is a great way to make new professional contacts and also improve your language skills.

There are large international charities and also local organisations which offer volunteering placements to internationals in Sweden, a lot are free or pay you a stipend salary. You can find skilled and non-skilled opportunities for both short and long term periods.

Where You Can Help

You can join programs throughout the country, popular places to volunteer include:

Gothenburg
Malmö
Helsingborg
Linköping
Örebro
Stockholm
Uppsala
Västerås
Rural areas

How You Can Help

There are short and long term volunteer opportunities in various areas including:

Helping Communities

A lot of charities have been set up to work with physically and mentally disabled individuals in support centers and also help elderly and vulnerable members of society. Tasks can depend on your experience and skill level, international volunteers generally help everyday activities like education, community development, handicraft, farming, and more. In Sweden there are special homes and centers with full-time local staff who help elderly people. There are various support roles available where you can help local staff.

Environmental Projects

Sweden is one of the most sustainable countries in the world because of its use of renewable energy which has resulted in very low carbon dioxide emissions. As an environmental volunteer in Sweden you will be able to help protect the environment and popular opportunities include working on ecologically sustainable farms. Positions can include caring for animals, planting and harvesting, agriculture and general tasks.

Requirements

Most organisations will require volunteers learn some Swedish, as not all people in the country speak English. You usually need to be aged 18+ unless participating as part of a group or with a family member.

How to Apply

You can search featured organisations and apply direct. Some international organisations offer structured programs where you will need to pay a fee to participate, this generally includes:

Extensive pre-departure preparation, including a training weekend
Accommodation
Airport transfers
Medical insurance
In-country orientation upon arrival and ongoing support and supervision throughout your program
Language courses
Monthly stipend for incidental expenses

You might also like to view our volunteer programs in Europe for more options.