How It Works

At United Volunteer, we organize life-changing volunteer projects and internships in Sri Lanka. It’s quite simple – you choose what you want to do, where you want to go, and when you want to do it. You pay us a fee, and we provide you with:

Unrivalled support from our staff before, during, and after your trip

A hassle-free experience where everything is taken care of for you

A real project with real impact

We create meaningful change through our projects. Each one addresses a specific issue in a specific location – whether it’s saving sea turtles from extinction or empowering women in need. Our projects run year-round, regardless of the number of volunteers or interns.

We’ve been doing this for over five years. That means you’ll be part of something that brings long-term, meaningful change – not just a quick fix. Every time a volunteer or intern joins one of our programs, they’re making an investment in a better world.

WHERE DO I START?

Step 1: Research

Check our projects and Choose your ideal trip from a wide range of options, including hospital internships in Colombo or turtle conservation projects in Galle—something meaningful for every interest and passion.

Get in touch with our team. They are experts and can help you decide on the most suitable project, destination, and dates.

Step 2: Booking

Once you’ve made a decision, fill out our apply form and pay a $50 deposit, which comes off the total cost. You can always book over the phone if you prefer – either way it will take about 10 mins.

We normally recommend booking at least three months before you’d like to go. However, our staff have been known to perform miracles with short notice, so if in doubt, please give us a call!

If you’re not sure what kind of information we’ll need to complete your booking, take a look at our how to apply page.

Step 3: Confirmation

You’ll receive a confirmation email immediately after booking. Following that, our team will carefully review your booking form to ensure all necessary details are complete—this process usually takes up to five working days.

Once everything is in order, you’ll receive a welcome email and a call from your dedicated Volunteer Advisor. They will be your personal point of contact and will support you with everything you need before your arrival.

Step 4 : Pre - Departure

Your dedicated Volunteer Advisor will guide you through everything you need to know before your departure. We will provide you with all the essential pre-departure advice, including accommodation details, helpful resources, and lesson plans to help you prepare for your project.

If a visa is required, we’ll also send you step-by-step information on how to apply. Additionally, if you would like assistance with booking your flights, we can provide a no-obligation quote and help you organise your travel arrangements.

Step 5 : Payment

When you make a booking, only a deposit of $50 is required to secure your place. The remaining balance is due one month before your start date.
You can make payments securely online via PayPal or by bank transfer.

Step 6 : Lift off!

We’ll give you a final call/email before you fly, but then all that’s left is for you to board your flight and get ready for an adventure.

Step 7 : Arrival and Induction

Our staff will meet you at the airport upon your arrival, holding a United Volunteer sign for easy identification. They will escort you to your accommodation and give you time to settle in comfortably.

Afterward, you’ll receive a comprehensive induction and safety briefing to help you get familiar with the local area and ensure you have everything you need. On your second day, our team will introduce you to your colleagues at your placement and help you get started.

Step 8 : Have the experience of a lifetime

Now it’s over to you. You’ll meet new friends, learn new things, and be part of a long-term impact. Our staff will be on hand to help you and you’ll make memories to last a lifetime.

ARRIVAL INFORMATION IN SRI LANKA

At United Volunteer, we’re here to make your experience smooth, safe, and impactful from the moment you sign up to your very first day on placement. From visa support to airport pickup and induction, we handle the logistics so you can focus on what really matters—making a difference.

✈️ Arrival and Airport Pickup in Sri Lanka

Once you land at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a friendly United Volunteer staff member holding a clearly marked “United Volunteer” sign. Our team will then accompany you to our nearby office, located approximately 20 minutes from the airport.

For volunteers placed further from Colombo, your drive may take a little longer—but rest assured, you’ll be taken directly to your accommodation so you can relax and settle in. All airport transfers are included in your volunteer fee.

🛫 Booking Your Flights to Sri Lanka

With over 11 years of experience organizing international travel for thousands of volunteers, we can take the hassle out of booking flights. Finding the right fare online can be time-consuming and confusing—so let us help.

Our travel team will help you find the best return flights, prioritizing safety, convenience, and cost-efficiency. Whether your travel plans are simple or complex, we’ll help you get to Sri Lanka with confidence.

🛂 Visa Requirements Made Simple

Navigating visa rules can be tricky—but with United Volunteer, you’re in safe hands. Our dedicated visa team keeps up-to-date with the latest visa regulations for Sri Lanka and all other destinations we serve.

We’ll guide you through the visa process step-by-step and answer any questions—big or small—until your visa is secured. Our goal is to make the process easy and stress-free.

📋 Your Induction and Orientation in Sri Lanka

Upon arrival, our local staff will guide you through a full orientation to help you settle into your new surroundings. You’ll receive:

A guided tour of the local area
Help purchasing a local SIM card
Assistance with currency exchange
Instructions on how to use public transport
A visit to our local offices
An induction pack with maps, contact details, and key info

This orientation ensures you feel safe, informed, and ready to begin your journey.

🏥 Your First Day at the Volunteer or Internship Placement

We want you to feel confident as you start your project. On your first day, our staff will accompany you from your accommodation to the placement site. You’ll be introduced to:

Your placement supervisor and team
The daily routine and tasks
The facilities and environment you’ll be working in

This day is all about learning and settling in—your hands-on project work begins on the second day.

🛟 Ongoing Support, Safety, and Backup

Your safety is our top priority. That’s why we have 24/7 local support staff to help you throughout your journey. Whether you need help settling in, dealing with an issue at your placement, or just have a question, we are always just a call away.

Become A Volunteer And Make An Impact

ACCOMMODATION

As part of your project fee, we provide secure, comfortable accommodation conveniently located near your placement site. This ensures you have a safe and relaxing space to return to after each day’s work.

LIVING WITH A HOST FAMILY

At United Volunteer, we offer more than just a chance to give back — we provide a gateway to experiencing life from a local perspective. By living with a carefully selected host family, you'll move beyond the typical tourist route and truly immerse yourself in a new culture. Our volunteer and internship programs empower you to engage with real community issues while enjoying the warmth and support of a home away from home.

Our host families are chosen for their hospitality and dedication to cultural exchange. They offer modest, secure, and comfortable accommodations, complete with regular wellness check-ins and delicious home-cooked meals. Living with them helps you adjust quickly, offering both emotional support and a deeper understanding of local life. You’ll also join a built-in community of fellow volunteers, creating lasting friendships and shared experiences.

We are committed to making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. That’s why we ensure our host families are fairly compensated and fully aligned with our values of respect, care, and collaboration.

Embark on a journey of purpose, growth, and cultural discovery with United Volunteer.

STAYING IN SHARED ACCOMMODATION

When host family stays aren’t available, we provide clean, safe, and comfortable shared accommodation in guesthouses, apartments, or standard hotels. You’ll be living alongside other volunteers, offering a great chance to bond, share experiences, and build lifelong international friendships. A dedicated chef will prepare your daily meals, allowing you to enjoy and explore the richness of local cuisine and culture during your stay.

VARIOUS ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

We understand that every traveler is different, which is why we offer a variety of accommodation options tailored to your needs and preferences. From host families and shared housing to hotels and guest houses, our choices allow you to experience authentic local culture, enjoy comfort, or find a more private setting—ensuring your stay perfectly complements your project.

Affordable Programs

We offer the world’s most affordable and transparent volunteer programs, ideal for solo travelers seeking meaningful experiences with like-minded individuals. Our carefully selected programs combine low cost with trusted partnerships, including United Volunteer, which has hosted over 4,500 participants and provides programs starting from just US$430.

Flexibility

To make your volunteering experience in Sri Lanka as smooth and rewarding as possible, we offer complete flexibility with arrival and start dates. We understand that travel schedules vary, so you’re free to begin your journey at a time that works best for you. This approach allows you to plan with ease, ensuring a convenient, personalized, and impactful experience.

Experience

t the heart of our mission is the belief that everyone has something unique to offer. We don’t define our volunteers by fixed traits—we welcome all who are passionate about helping others, eager to work hard, and open to learning about Sri Lanka’s rich culture, warm people, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer, a curious student, a first-time traveler, or a retiree seeking purpose and adventure, you’ll find a meaningful place in our inclusive community. Come join us in creating real change and unforgettable memories.

Meaningful

United Volunteer empowers communities through meaningful service. As you give your time and talents, you’ll enrich children’s lives—and transform your own. Build deep local connections, grow personally, and gain unique cultural insights. This journey of giving and receiving offers fulfillment beyond measure. Join us and be part of a lasting, positive impact on the world.