Voluntary Internships in Germany for International Students

Understanding Internships in Germany

Internships in Germany are an integral part of both academic study and career preparation. They may be voluntary or mandatory, depending on whether they are required by your university curriculum. International students often choose voluntary internships to gain exposure to the German workplace and connect with potential employers.

Types of Internships in Germany

German internships fall into 2 main categories, each serving different purposes and requirements:

• Mandatory internships: Also known as Pflichtpraktikum. This is often required as part of a university programme and must be completed for you to graduate.
• Voluntary internships: This is when a student or graduate chooses to do an internship independently of their studies to gain work experience.

Popular Sectors for International Students

Germany is home to global leaders in various fields, making it an attractive place for student interns. Popular sectors among international students include:

• Engineering and automotive (e.g. at BMW, Mercedes or Volkswagen)
• IT and software development
• Finance and consulting
• Biotechnology and pharmaceuticals
• Renewable energy and sustainability
• Research institutions and academia

These sectors often seek young professionals with international perspectives and specialised knowledge.

Internship Duration and Compensation

Most internships in Germany typically last between 3 to 6 months. Sometimes they can extend up to 12 months, especially for engineering and technical fields. During the summer semester break, you are also able to find shorter internships of 6-8 weeks.

Whether the internship is compensated depends on the internship type and company. Companies are not obligated to pay students doing a mandatory internship and, in some cases, don’t pay for short voluntary internships. However, voluntary internships in Germany longer than 3 months must be paid for the entire duration according to German labour laws.

How to Find an Internship in Germany

Securing an internship requires preparation and clarity about your goals. With the right strategy, international students can access many opportunities tailored to their skills and ambitions.

Decide What You Are Looking For

The first step to securing an internship in Germany is to really understand what you’re looking for. Consider your major, your career aspirations, as well as your language skills. If you have German language skills, you’re likely to be able to stand out from others.

Before beginning to search for a position, consider what cities you would like to work in and which industry you want to gain more experience in. If you need any specific skills for the jobs you would like to obtain, it’s also important to consider your current skill set and what you’re capable of.

With an understanding of what you can offer and what the position will offer you in return, you can focus your search effectively.

Prepare Your Application Documents

The next step is to prepare your internship application documents carefully. German employers value well-structured applications. You will need:

• A CV (Lebenslauf): Must fit the German standards, be in chronological order and highlight your education, skills and work experience.
• Cover letter (Anschreiben): Should be tailored to each application, explain why you would like to do your internship in that specific company and which skills you bring.
• Relevant transcripts and certificates: To show your academic achievements and qualifications

Your application documents should be polished and error-free, reflecting your attention to detail and professionalism. Ensure they are either in German or English, depending on the role’s requirements. Additionally, consider seeking feedback from professors, career advisors, or peers to ensure your application stands out.

Best Platforms and Resources for Internship Search

The third step is to research available opportunities for your internship in Germany. Several platforms make internship searches easier for international students:

• University career centres: Typically have partnerships with companies and exclusive listings of internship opportunities. Also offer services such as career counselling, workshops, and job fairs.
• LinkedIn and Xing: Online platforms with listings of job opportunities, including internships, across many industries. Both allow you to filter your search based on industry, location, and other criteria.
• Company career pages: If you have companies in mind, where you would love to do an internship, look up opportunities on the career page on their website.

There are also job portals specifically tailored and dedicated to international students and graduates in Germany. Both platforms recognise the language barrier internationals face in the job market and this makes them ideal for searching for internships in Germany for English speakers:

Career Bee

CareerBee specialises in matching skilled workers and graduates with employers in Germany that hire international talent.

On their platform, you can find job postings in fields like IT, engineering, healthcare, and business management. CareerBee also has a free learning hub where you can find helpful resources like CV writing guides and interview preparation tips to boost your chances of success.

Expatino

Expatino is another platform focused on helping internationals find jobs in Germany, especially non-German speakers. Here you can find internship roles, working student positions as well as full-time and part-time.

Expatino also offers job coaching programmes and career camps to support you in your internship searching process.

Application Process and Tips

Your application process for an internship should follow a structured timeline. Submit applications 3-6 months in advance, especially for positions in major companies or competitive fields. German companies often plan internship programmes well ahead of time.

If you don’t receive a response after 2-3 weeks, send a professional email to follow up and show that you are still interested in an internship. If you are shortlisted, the company will likely invite you for an interview, either online or in-person.

Take time to thoroughly prepare for the interview by:

• Researching the company’s values and history
• Reading about any recent development of the company and industry
• Practicing common interview questions

Do You Need a Visa for an Internship in Germany?

Internationals from non-EU/EEA member states will need a visa to do an internship in Germany. The type of visa you need depends on your nationality, internship type, and length of stay.

Visa Requirements for an Internship in Germany

If you are already studying in Germany, your student visa allows you to do an internship. If your internship is mandatory from your university, you will not need an additional permit. If you are voluntarily doing an internship, you can work up to 140 full or 280 half days per year as per the regulations of the German student visa.

If you are still in your home country, you will have to apply for a visa before travelling for your internship in Germany. In the case that you are enrolled in a university abroad, you could apply for a visa for a study-related internship EU.

In any other case, you would need to apply for a Type C visa (Schengen visa) or a Type D visa (German national visa) if the duration of the internship is longer than 3 months.

Required Documents for the Internship Visa

The requirements for your visa application will vary depending on the country as well as the type of visa you are going to apply for. However, here is an overview of the standard documents you will need:

• A valid passport with at least 2 blank pages
• Completed and signed visa application form
• Proof of an internship agreement from a German employer
• Proof of enrolment in a university abroad
• An academic degree no more than 2 years old
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of sufficient financial resources

It is highly recommended to use a Blocked Account; a specific type of bank account that will help you prove that you have enough money to live in Germany for the duration of your internship.

Fintiba Services for Your Internship Visa

Fintiba has supported over 300,000 internationals on their journey to Germany by providing digital solutions to help you meet your German visa requirements – fast, reliable, and 100% online.

Complete Solution for Your Internship Visa Needs

Fintiba provides you with a comprehensive package that covers the most important requirements for your internship visa application. We will guide you through every step of the process, giving you peace of mine.

You can also rest assured that our Blocked Account and Health Insurance are approved by all German embassies worldwide. With everything in one place, you save time, reduce stress, and avoid common mistakes that can delay your visa approval.

All-in-One Visa Package Support

Fintiba Plus bundles the most essential internship visa requirements into a single package:

• ✅ Fully compliant Blocked Account
• ✅ Free travel health insurance worth up to €95
• ✅ German health insurance coverage tailored to your needs

This way, you can focus on what really matters: preparing for your internship in Germany. No more worrying if everything will be accepted by the authorities or trying to get visa documents from different sources.

How to Succeed in Your German Internship

Succeeding in your internship is about more than just technical skills – you also need to understand cultural nuances, learn how to network and be ready to adapt to your new environment.

Understanding German Work Culture

In Germany, punctuality is key. This means you should always arrive to work and meetings on time as a sign of respect and professionalism.

Another integral part of German working culture is direct and transparent communication. If you are unsure about a task or requirement while you are working, never be afraid to ask questions.

Work-life balance is also highly respected, with clear boundaries between professional and personal time.

Essential Tips for International Interns

Show your excitement to learn and contribute by taking the initiative. Volunteer for projects, propose new ideas, and look for additional responsibilities. This proactive attitude will help you stand out and make a positive impression.

Observe and adapt to the working environment. Each company has its own culture and practices. Pay attention to the dress code, office etiquette, and communication styles to blend in seamlessly.

Keep a record of your accomplishments throughout your internship. Document the projects you worked on, the skills you developed, and any positive feedback you received. This will be useful for updating your resume and during future job interviews.

Balancing work and personal life are important for your general health. Ensure you get enough rest, eat well, and engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. A healthy work-life balance will enable you to perform better and enjoy your internship experience.

Networking and Career Development

Internships are a chance to expand your professional network. Building relationships with your colleagues is important. Attend company events, join team lunches, and engage in conversations with them. This can open doors to future opportunities and provide a support system during your internship.

Take part in industry events and conferences when you can – Germany has many professional meetups that are perfect for expanding your network. Don't be shy about asking for mentorship within your company, either; many experienced professionals are happy to help juniors.

Language Requirements and Communication

While German is not always required for internships in Germany, speaking basic German will help you make the most of your time. It shows commitment to integrating into the local culture and can make everyday interactions smoother.

Consider intensive German courses before or during your internship, as language skills will improve both professional opportunities and personal experiences.