European Voluntary Service (EVS) was a European Union volunteering programme that enabled young people to take part in projects abroad with non-profit organisations, associations and local communities.

The name EVS has now fallen out of use. However, it can still be found in older articles, project descriptions and online searches. This page is maintained as a historical archive for readers who are still looking for information using the former name.

What was the European Voluntary Service?

EVS offered young people the opportunity to volunteer in another country for a limited period. Projects were generally organised through cooperation between the participant, a sending organisation and a host organisation.

Activities could involve environmental protection, arts and culture, youth work, community projects, heritage, sports and other non-profit initiatives. EVS was not regular paid employment and projects were expected to provide an educational and intercultural experience.

Is EVS still active?

No new European projects should normally be advertised under the EVS name. European youth volunteering funded through the current EU programme is now associated with the European Solidarity Corps.

If an organisation advertises a new “EVS project”, it may simply be using outdated terminology. Ask for the official project name, current programme details and a link to the corresponding opportunity on an official European Union website.

Readers looking for current projects can visit our European Solidarity Corps opportunities page.

What did EVS projects usually include?

Depending on the programme period and the individual project, EVS placements generally included accommodation, food or a meal allowance, insurance, travel support, training and a small amount of pocket money.

These historical conditions must not be assumed to apply to a current opportunity. Always request updated written information about:

• the organisation and project status;
• application and activity dates;
• participant eligibility;
• accommodation and meals;
• insurance and travel reimbursement;
• weekly tasks and working hours;
• visa or residence requirements;
• supervision and emergency support.

How to use this archive

Open the announcement that interests you and check its publication date. Most EVS articles should be treated as historical material rather than active calls for volunteers.

If the organisation still exists, visit its official website and check whether it currently participates in European volunteering programmes. Do not send money, identity documents or sensitive information based only on an old announcement.

Voluntouring is an independent directory and is not an official European Union portal, recruitment agency or intermediary. We cannot confirm that an archived opportunity is still available.

Safety and responsible volunteering

Before accepting any international volunteering project, check official travel advice, entry requirements and local laws. Read Voluntouring’s information about visas for volunteering and safety and legality.

Projects involving children or vulnerable people require appropriate safeguarding rules, supervision and volunteer screening. Read our guide to safer volunteering with children.

Archived EVS opportunities

This archive displays approximately 12 to 15 articles per page. Use the “Older Posts” navigation below to continue browsing. Assume that an opportunity has expired unless the organisation confirms otherwise through an official and current source.

Does your organisation offer a current volunteering or hospitality opportunity? Please use the present name of the programme in your submission. New announcements will not be classified as EVS projects.

Submit a current opportunity