Frequently asked questions

Please note that all positions for 2026 have been filled. Stay tuned to find out when the recruitment period for 2027 begins!

What are the basic criteria for eligibility for the TSF Volunteer Cooperation Program?

What are the basic eligibility criteria for TSF’s program:
– Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
– Be 18 years of age or older

*Several assignments require a minimum of 5 years of experience in the field of the assignment

Who can apply to become a volunteer aid worker?

TSF does not offer introductory assignments in international solidarity. Volunteer cooperation assignments are professional assignments. We are therefore looking for professionals to support our partners and field offices by transferring and strengthening skills. The most sought-after professions are in the following fields: visual health, maternal health, family health and women’s health (particularly gynecology), nutrition, oral health, nursing, pharmacy, management, and accounting. Professionals working in other fields are invited to submit unsolicited applications. These will be reviewed based on the needs of local teams.

Do you accept applications from retired professionals?

Yes, retired professionals may apply.

However, they are responsible for checking with their professional association or the relevant authorities regarding the rules governing the practice of their profession after retirement, in order to comply with the restrictions and obligations in force.

Participation will then be assessed according to the type of mandate.

How much do the mandates cost?

Some mandates are subsidized and others are not. The financial parameters will be discussed during your interview.

Does the volunteer receive a salary?

No. Professionals wishing to undertake an assignment are volunteers participating in the Volunteer Cooperation Program (PCV). They therefore do not receive a salary.

How long is a mandate ?

The minimum duration for a mandate is 3 weeks.

What is the minimum deadline for submitting an application?

The minimum timeframe is five months to ensure proper pre-departure preparation here in Canada and with the field team.

What does it mean to fully commit to a voluntary cooperation mandate with TSF?

Getting involved with TSF means, above all, offering your time, energy, and openness to support communities in their projects in a respectful and sustainable way. In concrete terms, this means:

Before departure: prepare and train yourself to understand the local context, needs, and challenges, so that you can be useful from day one.

During your assignment: work hand in hand with teams and beneficiaries, listen, learn, and actively contribute to activities with patience and humility.

After your assignment: share your experience, document the work you have done, and continue to support initiatives, even from a distance.

Getting involved with TSF is a deep human commitment based on collaboration, respect, and the desire to leave a positive and lasting impact.

What are the responsibilities and commitments of volunteer aid workers before, during, and after their assignment?

Volunteer aid workers must participate in pre-departure training sessions, help prepare logistics and equipment, send all necessary documents to TSF, and collaborate on various preparatory steps, e.g., visa applications, participation in field assignments (minimum 3 weeks), final reports (logbook, final report, boarding passes, photos, etc.). Volunteer aid workers must participate in post-assignment training and contribute to communications (testimonials, articles, etc.).

What languages are spoken during the mandate?

The cooperant must be able to communicate at an intermediate or advanced level in the working language of their assignment, which may be French, English, or Spanish.

Are there any mandatory vaccinations or other medical requirements that must be met before departure?

It depends on the country of assignment. Some destinations require specific vaccinations, such as yellow fever. If vaccination is mandatory before flying or upon entry into the country of assignment, a vaccination certificate will be required. We strongly recommend that you consult a travel clinic before your departure to obtain personalized advice based on your destination. The TSF team will also assist you in clarifying the medical requirements related to your assignment.

Do I need a visa or special permit to carry out voluntary cooperation work?

In most cases, a temporary visa (e.g., tourist visa) is sufficient. However, requirements vary depending on the country and the length of the assignment. TSF will provide you with the necessary information and assist you with the administrative procedures.

Can I participate in this volunteer program as part of an internship or study program?

Yes, it is possible, and many people undertake an assignment as part of their academic studies, whether as an internship, final project, or credited experience. However, it also depends on the needs and realities on the ground. We invite you to discuss this with the TSF team at the beginning of the process to see if such an integration is feasible and beneficial for all parties.

Will I be accompanied and supported throughout my field experience?

Absolutely. TSF provides support before, during, and after your assignment. You will receive preparatory training, logistical and moral support in the field, and follow-up upon your return. TSF works with an experienced field team and trusted local partners who ensure your safety and well-being at all times during the mission. You will never be alone in this experience.

Is it possible to extend the duration of my assignment, either before departure or once I am there?

No. Voluntary cooperation assignments have a predetermined duration, based on needs in the field and available resources. For organizational and security reasons, and to ensure proper monitoring of the volunteer throughout their assignment, it is not possible to extend the duration of the assignment.