Finding an internship in France
Taking advantage of a world-renowned education system, exploring a country brimming with history, art, and culture, or working in a multinational corporation are just a few of the numerous benefits of undertaking an internship in France. Where should you begin in your quest to find the internship of your dreams? This article will guide you through the process!
No matter if your interests lie in the arts, beauty, science, tourism, or technology, it's important to note that numerous companies across various sectors offer internships in France. Overall, to truly make the most of your internship project in France, it's essential to cultivate your determination and showcase your skills.
Do you need a visa to do an internship in France?
Citizens of the European Union, the Schengen area, and Switzerland are not required to obtain a visa to work or pursue an internship in France. Additionally, foreign nationals studying in France are permitted to undertake internships. Foreign students must be enrolled in the French social security system to access healthcare coverage.
Keep in mind that there are restrictions on the number of hours you can work in a year. Presently, students in France are allowed to work for 964 hours per year. There are exceptions for students on apprenticeship contracts and those whose training includes working hours (such as interns, language assistants, etc.).
French universities provide students with opportunities to work, such as organizing social events or participating in the schools' promotional activities, subject to certain conditions. Foreign students are allowed to work up to 670 hours between September 1 and June 30 and up to 300 hours between July 1 and August 31.
As regulations can change, it's recommended to contact educational institution representatives via the Campus France website (the French agency for foreign students) or the staff responsible for international internships at your school.
If you are a citizen of a country exempt from short-stay visa requirements, you can complete your internship in France without a visa as long as the duration does not surpass 90 days. If the internship extends beyond this period, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa.
For detailed information on long-stay and short-stay visa requirements in France based on your country of residence, you can refer to the website of the French diplomatic services or the nearest consulate. The Campus France website is also a helpful resource.
Doing an internship of less than 90 days in France
If you are from a country whose citizens are not exempt from visa requirements for an internship of less than 90 days in France, you will need to obtain a "uniform Schengen" visa from the French consulate in your country of residence. In some instances, Campus France may assist with the application process.
We highly advise checking the website of the French embassy in your home country or reaching out to the consulate before applying for a visa to obtain the exact list of supporting documents you need to submit.
As a general rule, here's what your visa application should contain:
- the completed and signed application form;
- your valid passport (3 months after the end of your internship in France);
- two passport-size photographs (please note specific photo requirements);
- proof of special Schengen repatriation and health insurance, valid for the duration of your stay in France;
- internship agreement signed by you, your university, and the hiring company;
- proof of accommodation (accommodation certificate or hotel reservation);
- proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in France;
- processing times are generally smooth, but it's always a good idea to check with the French embassy beforehand.
Internships of over 90 days in France
In France, internships typically extend beyond 3 months, necessitating a long-stay visa. If this applies to your case, the duration of your visa will be determined by the terms stated in the internship agreement. Within the first 3 months of your arrival in France, you will be required to register with the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII). It's important to reach out to the consulate handling your application to ensure you are familiar with the procedure before scheduling an appointment.
In general, the following documents will be required for a long-stay visa:
- proof of residence in the country where you will be doing your internship (if applicable);
- your original passport (valid for 3 months after the end of your internship, with at least two blank pages);
- completed long-stay visa application form (available on the France Visas website);
- passport-size photos of yourself;
- OFII residence form;
- application fee;
- your original internship agreement, issued by the institution where you will be doing your internship. Note that the agreement must be signed by your employer, the prefect, and yourself. You can obtain the prefect's approval by applying to the Direction régionale des entreprises, de la concurrence, de la consommation, du travail et de l'emploi (DIRECCTE);
- proof of sufficient funds to support yourself;
- proof of health insurance.
Finding an internship in France
Before searching for an internship in France, it's important to note that a strong command of the French language is essential. We suggest enhancing your language proficiency and undergoing a language assessment test before initiating the application process.
Numerous multinational companies, like Airbus, Total, and Lafarge, frequently offer internships to foreign students. These companies often post-internship opportunities on their websites, serving as a great initial resource, although the market can be quite competitive.
If you are enrolled in an academic institution, reach out to the internship coordinator to acquire contacts in France. You can also directly contact the companies that pique your interest. Additionally, there are numerous websites that list internship opportunities.
French companies seek interns who are proficient in French and international business languages. Therefore, it's important to highlight your language and academic abilities when submitting your applications.
Searching for an internship in France can feel overwhelming, particularly if you are applying from another country. However, numerous organizations can provide assistance, beginning with the French embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
Internships in France: Remuneration and employment law
In France, internships are regulated by specific rules. Student interns are meant to be in a learning role; therefore, an internship cannot be used to substitute for an absent employee, fulfill regular tasks that correspond to a permanent position, manage a temporary surge in activity, or fill a seasonal job.
In addition, trainees are required to pay a minimum gratuity if their internship in France lasts more than 2 consecutive months during the same school or university year. Since January 1, 2024, the minimum amount paid for each hour of actual presence has risen to 4.35 euros, compared with 4.05 euros previously. A simulator is available on this website. Trainees are also reimbursed for part of their transport costs under the same conditions as employees.
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