Are internships paid in France?
Many international students planning to study in France ask this important question: Are internships paid in France?
The short answer is: Yes, most internships in France are paid — if they last more than two months.
However, there are specific legal rules you should understand before applying.
Are Internships Mandatory in France?
In many French universities and Grandes Écoles, internships are part of the academic curriculum. Students often complete internships:
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During Bachelor’s programs
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In Master’s degrees
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As part of business, engineering, hospitality, or management programs
Internships are usually linked to your university and require a formal agreement called a “Convention de Stage.”
When Are Internships Paid?
French law clearly states:
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If an internship lasts more than 2 consecutive months (or 44 working days), the employer must pay the intern.
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If the internship is less than 2 months, payment is optional (but some companies still offer compensation).
This rule applies across France, including cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse.
How Much Do Interns Get Paid in France?
There is a minimum internship allowance set by the government.
The minimum legal stipend is approximately €4.35 per hour (subject to updates).
For a full-time internship (35 hours per week), interns typically receive:
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Around €600–€700 per month
Some large companies or multinational firms may offer higher stipends, especially in business, engineering, finance, and tech sectors.
What Is the “Convention de Stage”?
A Convention de Stage is a mandatory internship agreement signed by:
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The student
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The university
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The employer
Without this document, an internship is not legally valid in France.
It outlines:
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Internship duration
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Working hours
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Payment details
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Insurance coverage
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Responsibilities of each party
International students must ensure this document is in place before starting work.
Are Internships Paid for International Students?
Yes. International students receive the same internship rights as French students.
If you hold a valid student residence permit, you can complete paid internships under the same legal framework.
Internship hours are generally included within the student work limit (964 hours per year), depending on your visa type.
Which Fields Offer Better Paid Internships?
Internship pay can vary depending on the industry and location.
Higher-paying sectors often include:
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Business and Management
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Engineering
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IT and Data Science
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Finance
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Marketing
Cities like Paris and Lyon tend to offer more corporate internship opportunities, while smaller cities may focus on tourism, hospitality, or local industries.
Are Internships Enough to Cover Living Costs?
In most cases, internship stipends help with:
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Rent contribution
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Transport
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Food expenses
However, in expensive cities like Paris, the stipend alone may not cover all living costs. Students often combine savings, family support, or part-time work to manage expenses.
Do Interns Receive Other Benefits?
In some companies, interns may also receive:
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Meal vouchers (Tickets Restaurant)
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Transport reimbursement (50% public transport coverage)
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Paid leave (for long internships)
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Professional networking opportunities
Benefits depend on the employer.
Final Answer: Are Internships Paid in France?
Yes, internships in France are legally paid if they last more than two months. The minimum stipend is regulated by law, and all internships must be supported by a Convention de Stage.
For international students, internships in France offer valuable work experience, professional exposure, and financial support during studies.
If you are planning to study in France in 2026, understanding internship rules will help you plan your academic and career journey more confidently.
