From Hamburg to Munich: Intern Abroad in Germany

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Germany is an ideal place to snag an internship abroad. From Hamburg to Munich, opportunities to gain valuable work experience and marketable international exposure are available throughout. Several of the world’s largest companies are headquartered in cities across the country. 

Not only is Germany one of the most politically powerful nations in Europe, it’s also the most populated within the European Union. With a healthy, leading economy, and many small to medium-sized businesses in addition to global corporations, it’s not difficult to find the perfect internship in Germany. However, there are several providers to go through. Here are tips and suggestions to help narrow your search.

 

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INTERN ABROAD IN GERMANY THROUGH CULTURAL VISTAS

The Cultural Vistas Internship Program in Germany focuses on providing international students and United States citizens studying at accredited US colleges and universities, or Canadian nationals studying in the United States or Canada, the chance to gain overseas work experience, learn German, and immerse in the culture and vibrancy of one of Europe’s most advanced societies. 

Interested students apply through Cultural Vistas, are interviewed, screened, and then positioned in internships relating to a degree or field of choice upon successful acceptance into the program.

Placements are within several fields such as: business, engineering, international relations, information and communications technology (ICT), and tourism. Organizations offering internships range from family-owned and operated to worldwide companies. 

Internships in Germany promoted by Cultural Vistas are generally three months to one year in duration with rolling start states. Many positions are paid, and scholarships, as well as course stipends, are an option for applicants who land unpaid assignments. 

From pre-departure to return post internship, Cultural Vistas assists qualified candidates with everything from language training and travel advice, to help with obtaining the necessary documents to work in Germany, as well as some assistance with finding housing if necessary.

As a nonprofit organization for over 60 years, Cultural Vista’s mission is to “enrich minds, advance global skills, build careers, and connect lives through international exchange.” It’s a solid, well-established agency to go through when looking for internships abroad in Germany. 

Basic Qualifications for Cultural Vistas Internship Program in Germany:

  • Must have completed at least two years of university
  • Should have some experience in a desired field/major
  • Two years post-secondary instruction in German is preferred

The starting price for the Cultural Vistas Internship Program in Germany is $775 USD. Participants interning in Germany with Cultural Vistas are responsible for all travel and in-country expenses as well. Compensation for paid positions varies greatly, from EUR 100€ to 600€ per month.

 

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INTERN ABROAD IN GERMANY ALONGSIDE INTRAX GLOBAL INTERNSHIPS

Intrax Global Internships strives to match promising students with relevant internships in several countries. Internships available in Germany are based in historic Berlin, and mostly relate to the areas of: business, finance, ICT, marketing, and sales.

Intrax ensures employers are legitimate, helps in the process of getting a visa, arranges accommodation, provides insurance, and facilitates orientation, training, and in-country support. Internship start dates are year-round and normally span from two to six months. Short-term internships are usually unpaid, but some longer-term stints offer living stipends. 

Basic Qualifications to Intern in Germany Alongside Intrax:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Completion of no less than two years of university is required
  • Be a fluent English-speaker

Fees for Intrax Global might seem high; however, over ten years of experience has resulted in a lot of positive feedback and reviews. The cost to intern abroad for two months in Germany, coming from the United States, starts around $2,400 USD, not including airfare and other travel expenses. Program tuition does include:

  • Application fee
  • Placement
  • Insurance
  • In-county support

Intrax is also a very reputable company to go through when pursuing internships abroad in Germany. It’s comprehensive, user-friendly, and visually appealing website is easy to navigate, too.

 

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FIND INTERNSHIPS IN GERMANY WITH EUROPE INTERSHIPS

Europe Internships is a safe, growing website promoting internships all over Europe. Agencies advertising internships on behalf of businesses, or companies directly offering internships post to the platform. Its postings are reviewed to maintain quality control. And there’s a fee involved to post, which helps keep spammers away. Comments are also moderated.

Types of intern arrangements on Europe Internships vary greatly. Some are paid. Others aren’t. Internship announcements may be a bit dated, so be sure to check. Tips on how to prepare to apply for internships are featured on Europe Internships as well.

 

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FIVE TIPS AND OTHER WAYS TO GET AN INTERNSHIP IN GERMANY

  1. Consider studying abroad in Germany before seeking an internship. It’ll make the search much easier, and you’ll be a more competitive applicant.
  2. Keep in mind you may be competing against locals for positions. It’s best to have as much language and related work and/or volunteer experience prior to applying, in order to successfully land the best internship.
  3. Research options through the US Military, especially with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The Advancing Minorities’ Interest in Engineering (AMIE) has partnered with USACE’s Europe District for nearly two decades.
  4. Be okay with interning for littler, lesser-known companies. While recognizable names look good on a resume or CV, smaller workplaces give interns a more intimate, hands-on experience. 
  5. Lastly, try contacting companies directly, especially if you have regional preferences, or desire to intern with a specific firm. Finding the perfect internship in a location that’s right for you doesn't have to be a costly process.

 

VISA REQUIREMENTS TO WORK IN GERMANY

US residents and Canadians with valid passports are able to enter and stay in Germany without a visa for up to three months. A work authorization is required, however. Americans and Canadians staying in Germany for more than three months will need to apply for a residence permit/business visa.

If you’re a non-US or Canadian citizen, visit the website of Germany's Federal Foreign Office to determine whether you’ll need a visa to enter or not, and then make an appointment with a German consulate in your area if a visa is required.

 

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WHY YOU SHOULD INTERN ABROAD IN GERMANY

Germany is an economic powerhouse in Europe, and boasts a high standard of living. There are countless internships available in large cities and tiny towns across the country—from Hamburg to Munich. In addition to gaining professional experience, you’ll get to enjoy Germany’s rich culture and way of life all the while becoming more fluent in the language.

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