Get a passport. A passport is an official document issued by a national government and is required for traveling internationally. You can get a passport application at your local post office or court house. Make sure you apply for your passport before you start looking for international volunteer positions. Already having a valid passport will show that you are serious about volunteering abroad.
Join a reputable international volunteer organization. You can find a list of organizations offering all kinds of different international volunteer opportunities on the Purdue and University of Illinois Extension websites. (See Resources.)
Choose a country that interests you and the type of volunteer work you'd like to do. According to the International Volunteer Programs Association, you can choose to help construct a school or clinic, teach English, practice sustainable agriculture, promote healthcare in rural villages, help protect sea turtle habitats and much more (see Reference 1).
Get a visa. The International Volunteer Programs Association recommends contacting the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you intend to volunteer in to find out about visa requirements (see Reference 2). You must have a valid passport before you can apply for a visa.
Complete the organization's volunteer application form. The volunteer application asks for general personal information and is used by the organization to determine your suitability in volunteering in one of their international volunteer programs. You can complete an application form at the organization's official website.
Visit your doctor and get a health screening and any vaccinations required or recommended for the country to which you will be traveling. You can determine which specific vaccinations you will need by talking to someone at the volunteer organization or by asking your doctor which vaccinations you will need.
Learn as much as you can about the country or countries you plan on volunteering in. The International Volunteer Programs Association recommends learning as much as possible about local customs, beliefs and language (see Reference 2). See if there is anyone at the volunteer organization who can talk to you about her personal experience of volunteering in another country. You can talk to friends or family members who have experience traveling or volunteering internationally.
