We are quite willing to answer any questions whatsoever about WWOOFing in Canada, so feel free to ask whatever may come up for you. However, before you email us with your questions, why not see if somebody else has asked your question before you.

Volunteer Questions

Do I need experience to be able to be at a farm?
No, yet you do need to bring a willingness to learn, laugh and try your best. The hosts will guide you to appropriate helping experiences.

How do I contact the host?
Use either the email or telephone number listed in their Profile. If contacting by email, put "WWOOF" in the subject line and then start by writing your name and ID /membership number. Ask the host if they can use your help and indicate when you would like to come.

How long will my booklet take to arrive if I choose to order a booklet?
If you apply via Paypal, you will receive your booklet within one week. If you apply via post, you will receive your booklet within two weeks. We pride ourselves in getting the book to you as fast as possible!!

How do I apply?
Click here to become a WWOOFer.

How much do I have to pay?
The cost to become a WWOOFer is $45.00. If you would like to order a booklet in the mail, there is an additional $10 cost.

Why does it cost double for a couple?
It doesn't - only $10 more than a single. Are you truly a COUPLE? If you are travelling as a couple (man/woman, gay/lesbian couple) we still need to charge you an additional $10, to cover our admin costs. 2 women / 2 males DOES NOT meet the requirements as a ' COUPLE'

Why don’t you send the information electronically
Now we do! Please enjoy this new system.

How long is my membership valid for?
Membership is valid for one year. So if you joined on the 1st December 2008, your membership would expire on the 1st December 2009.

Do I get paid for what I do?
No! and YES! You are volunteering and in return for your help, you will receive food and accommodation and a wonderful interesting experience! (That’s the YES part!)

Do you have to be of a certain age?
The only requirement is that you are at least 16 years old. There is no age limit, so you could do it if you were 100! The average age is 20-30. Many are in the 40’s! And 65% of the participants are women.

Do I need a Working / Visitors VISA?
No, No! YOU DO NOT NEED A WORKING VISA. You are volunteering, not working! See the VISA INFORMATION link under: Useful Information. However, depending on your nationality you may require a visitor’s visa which will allow you to stay in Canada for up to six months. If you are unsure check the Canadian Immigration Website for more details.

Is it safe to send cash in the post?
It depends how confident you are in your postal service. A lot of members sign up by sending cash in the post. Generally it is safe! (or from Canada & USA – cheques) However, you may wish to send us your payment by registered post if you send cash, to be extra safe.

What benefits do I get from being a member?
Once you become a member you will gain access to the online listings for instant and easy access to all the Hosts. You may choose to receive a green 56 page booklet that contains the contact details and descriptions for over 800 farms in Canada. The booklet is (almost) ALWAYS up-to-date!! We work hard to make sure it is accurate, however accessing the online listings is the only way to receive complete up-to-date listings.

I leave for Canada in a week’s time, is there anyway I can get my booklet quicker?
No ). But you do have access to all the listings on this site, as well as to any updates and additions. Do you really need a paper booklet?

I want to start WWOOFing right away – how can I get the book ASAP?
You don't need the booklet anymore, so there's no need to wait! Join now and browse all the farm listings online.

Is it important for me to speak English or French?
English ? – YES ! French ? (only in Quebec)– maybe. It may be a good idea to have a few basic lessons in conversational English before you arrive. A basic simple understanding of English is important and vital.

How long may I stay on each farm?
The length of time that you may stay on each farm varies, some invite you to stay a minimum of 2 weeks, whereas others do not specify a time period at all. Discuss it with your host. Many go for 1-3 weeks then move on to another farm, thus gaining an interesting variety of experiences. Some stay much longer – because they like it there!!

Can I use my membership to WWOOF in other countries?
I am sorry to say that your WWOOF membership is not transferable and each WWOOF organization is separate and independent from one another.

What if my plans change?
That’s no problem and we understand that when you are travelling, your plans do change. All we ask is that if you make arrangements with a farm host and if they change for any reason, please be courteous and let them know. This is one of the most frequent complaints we receive from hosts – that WWOOFers do not tell them if they change their plans. PLEASE let them know !!

What about travel and health insurance?
WWOOF Canada is not responsible for any loss, injury or damage to yourself or that you cause. You are responsible for your own Travel and Health insurance. Some farms may ask you to sign an additional waiver when you arrive.

Can I go wwoofing with my children?
Yes, wwoofing as a family has become quite popular in the last few years. Ideally find a family with children. You may need to make compromises by helping with childcare, supporting the hosts' meal budget, etc. So . yes

Host Questions

How do I become a host?
Click here to become a Host.

What are my responsibilities as a host?
To provide good wholesome (organic) meals and clean accommodations and an enjoyable atmosphere for the volunteer to help you with the tasks that need doing. Integrate your volunteer in all that you and your family do!

How do I check if somebody is a member?
You login to your online account on this site and do a search for your WWOOFer.