Complete Internship Guide in Germany 2024: How to Get It, Types and Compensation
Do you dream of gaining international professional experience in one of the most developed countries in the world? Germany offers excellent internship opportunities for international students, combining practical learning with one of the strongest economies in Europe. Discover how to make that dream a reality and boost your global career!
Why choose Germany for an internship?
Germany is an ideal destination for those seeking study and work in Germany. With the largest economy in Europe and the fourth largest in the world, the country offers a perfect environment to start your international career.
The German labor market is renowned for its stability and excellent working conditions. Companies value practical training and invest significantly in talent development, offering structured internship programs and real learning opportunities.
Types of internships in Germany
The German internship system is renowned for its organization and efficiency, offering different modalities to meet different student profiles. Each type of internship has its own characteristics, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your objectives.
The Pflichtpraktikum, or compulsory internship, is part of the academic curriculum and generally lasts two months. This modality focuses on the practical experience essential for your training and, although normally not remunerated, includes benefits such as health insurance and institutional support.
For those looking for more flexibility, there is the Freiwilliges Praktikum, or voluntary internship. In this modality, you have more freedom to choose the duration and activities. An important differential is that after three months, compensation becomes mandatory by law.
International students also have the Auslandspraktikum, a modality specially designed to integrate different cultures into the German professional environment. This format can be performed both as a compulsory and voluntary internship, depending on your study program.
Trainee compensation and rights
In Germany, the rights of trainees are well defined and protected by law. For voluntary internships longer than three months, the current minimum wage is €12.41 per hour (2024). The average monthly compensation varies between:
- Small businesses: €800 - €1,000
- Medium-sized companies: €1,000 - €1,200
- Large corporations: €1,200 - €1,500
Additional benefits may include:
- Transportation voucher
- Food stamps
- Health insurance
- Housing assistance
Step-by-step application process
Starting your search for an internship in Germany requires organization and planning careful. The first step is to carry out an honest self-assessment: define your professional goals, identify your areas of interest, and honestly assess your language skills.
A preparation of documents it's a crucial step. Your resume must follow the European format, and your motivation letter must be convincing and written in the language required by the company. Please take time for these documents to adequately reflect your qualifications and objectives.
The search for vacancies can be carried out through different channels. Use platforms such as Stepstone and Indeed, explore corporate sites and keep your profile up to date on professional networks such as LinkedIn and Xing. It's important to keep an active and organized search.
Ao submit your applications, maintain professional monitoring of the process. Prepare properly for interviews by researching companies and practicing answers to common questions. When you receive an offer, negotiate the conditions clearly and professionally.
Required Documentation
To intern in Germany, you will need:
- Personal documents:
- Valid passport
- Appropriate student visa
- Residence registration (upon arrival)
- International CPF
- Academic documents:
- Current university enrollment
- Translated school transcript
- Language certificates
- Course program
- Professional documents:
- Internship contract
- German health insurance
- Bank documents
- Proof of financial resources
Housing and cost of living
Financial planning is essential for a successful experience. Consider the following monthly costs:
- Basic expenses:
- Rent: €400-800
- Food: €200-300
- Shipping: €70-100
- Health insurance: €110
- Internet/Telephone: €30
- Leisure: €100-200
Learn more about cost of living in Germany.
How to prepare for interviews
The interview is a crucial moment in the process. Get ready to:
- Demonstrate knowledge about the company
- Explain your motivation to intern in Germany
- Present your relevant skills
- Discuss your expectations and objectives
- Show German cultural knowledge
- Answer questions in German or English
Tips for a successful experience
To maximize success on an internship in Germany, it's essential to respect the local culture. A timeliness it is essential, as Germans value efficient time management.
Demonstre Initiative at work, always respecting hierarchy and processes. Companies appreciate proactive employees who work within organizational structures.
Invest in learning the Basics of German, even if the work environment uses English, as this facilitates their integration and shows respect for the local culture.
Finally, build your professional network by attending events, keeping in touch with colleagues and opening up to new connections, which could be valuable for your future career, both in Germany and internationally.
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we understand that doing an internship in Germany is an important step in your international career. Our specialized team offers full support, from choosing the ideal program to visa guidance and adaptation in the country. Get in touch with us right now! We help you navigate the process safely, ensuring that your experience is enriching and transformative.
