Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about volontariat with Volontariat.com.
- How do I become a volontaire in France?
- Find a volontariat mission that fits you (Service Civique, the reserves, volunteer firefighter…) on Volontariat.com, then create your account on the scheme's official platform and apply.
- Who can do volontariat?
- It depends on the scheme. Service Civique is open to 16–25-year-olds (30 with a disability), with no qualification required. The reserves and volunteer firefighters have their own age and fitness conditions. What they share: motivation matters more than qualifications.
- What is the difference between volontariat and volunteering (bénévolat)?
- Bénévolat is free and unpaid: you give your time when you want, with no contract. Volontariat is a commitment framed by law, with a contract, an allowance and a set duration. Bénévolat is a gift of time; volontariat is a status. For bénévolat, see our partner site benevole.com.
- What forms of volontariat are available?
- Service Civique, the armed forces operational reserve, the gendarmerie and police reserves, the civic reserve, volunteer firefighters, and international volunteering (VSI, VIE/VIA).
- Is a volontaire paid?
- Not in the sense of a salary. A volontaire receives an allowance (for example around €620 a month in Service Civique), which is not pay and creates no relationship of subordination.
- Where do the missions on Volontariat.com come from?
- All missions come from API Engagement, a digital public service that aggregates engagement missions from more than 50 partner platforms.
- Is Volontariat.com free?
- Yes, Volontariat.com is completely free. It is a service of the Benevole.com association (loi 1901): we charge no commission and store no personal data.
- How do I apply to a volontariat mission?
- Click 'Apply' on the mission page. You will be redirected to the scheme's official platform (for example Service Civique) to complete your application.