Volunteering
Volunteering is a good way to meet people, practice Dutch, and get involved in your local community. In Northern Netherlands, you can find volunteer opportunities in Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe. Some positions require Dutch, while others may also be suitable for English speakers. Before you start volunteering, check which rules apply to your situation. The rules may depend on your residence permit, the type of organisation, and whether you receive any compensation.
What you can find on this page:
What to check before you start
In general, volunteering should meet the following conditions:
- The organisation must be a non-profit and have a volunteer permit (for refugees and asylum seekers).
- The work benefits society or the local community.
- The role does not replace paid work.
- You are not paid a regular salary.
- The organisation may need a volunteer declaration from UWV, depending on your situation.
Before you start volunteering, check which rules apply to your situation. This may depend on your residence status, the type of organisation, and whether you receive any compensation.
If you have a residence permit, check the back of your permit card. If it says “TWV vereist”, check whether you are allowed to volunteer before you start. In some cases, the organisation may need a volunteer declaration from UWV instead of a work permit.
If you are an asylum seeker or have refugee status, it is best to check with your case manager, contact person, or the organisation offering the volunteer position. They can help you understand which rules apply to your situation.
If you receive compensation for volunteering, check the current tax-free volunteer compensation rules with the Belastingdienst. The maximum amount can change each year. Depending on your situation, receiving compensation may also affect whether you need Dutch basic health insurance.
For official information, check UWV, IND, the Belastingdienst, or your local municipality. You can also contact the organisation offering the volunteer position, as they may know what needs to be arranged before you can start.
Where to find volunteering opportunities
You can find volunteer opportunities through national platforms and local organisations in Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe:
All provinces:
Groningen:
- Vrijwilligers Groningen
- Link050
- Make it in the North (Shares the vacancies from Link050 suitable for non-Dutch speakers)
- Mamamini
- IWCN Connect
- Forum Groningen
Drenthe:
- Vrijwilligerswerk Drenthe
- Zorggroep Drenthe
- Servicepunt vrijwilligerswerk
- Dierenbescherming Noord & Midden Drenthe & Zuidoost Drenthe
Friesland:
FAQ about volunteering
Can I receive compensation for volunteering?
Sometimes volunteers receive a small compensation, but this is not the same as a salary. Check the current tax-free volunteer compensation rules with the Belastingdienst, as the maximum amount can change each year.
Can I volunteer if I do not speak Dutch?
Yes, some volunteer roles are suitable for English speakers. Volunteering can also be a good way to practise Dutch and build confidence in everyday situations. However, some organisations may prefer basic Dutch, especially for roles that involve direct contact with residents, clients, children, or vulnerable groups.