Arranging a volunteer permit
Asylum seekers and refugees can volunteer for non-profit organisations in the Netherlands. They do not need a work permit to do this. But, the non-profit organisation must have a permit for the type of service the volunteers will be providing. Non-profit organisations can apply for these permits via UWV.
What are the criteria for a volunteer permit?
- Your organisation must be a non-profit organisation.
- Your volunteers cannot be paid for the services they provide.
- Your volunteers must provide services that benefit society. For example, volunteering in community centres or going on a weekly walk with senior citizens.
Please note: Asylum seekers will need a noncitizen’s ID (‘vreemdelingen identiteitsbewijs’) to qualify for a volunteer permit.
How to apply for a volunteer permit
To apply, complete the Volunteer permit application form (‘Aanvragen verklaring vrijwilligerswerk’). Make sure you keep a copy of this form once you have signed and completed it. You might need it later.
Keep in mind you will not be using this form to apply for a volunteer permit for a specific person. Instead, you will apply for a permit based on a particular type of volunteering service.
You should only apply for a permit for a volunteering service that you do not already have a permit for. A permit is valid for 3 years.
What happens after you have sent your application?
We will confirm we have received your application. Volunteers can start volunteering for your organisation as soon as you have received this confirmation. Just make sure you have a copy of our confirmation and your signed application form.
You will receive our decision about your application within 2 weeks of you sending us your form. If we reject your application, your volunteers will not be able to continue providing the service you requested a permit for.