In Germany, there are two kinds of internships: voluntary internships (Freiwilliges Praktikum) and compulsory internships (Pflichtpraktikum).
A voluntary internship can, for example, be completed during school or university holidays or before training or studying. It helps with professional orientation and offers opportunities for gaining professional experience.
It’s also possible for people on the job hunt to do an internship. This can help with professional orientation and also provide an opportunity to show your worth to an employer. Anyone who receives benefits from the Jobcenter or the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) can apply for a Trainingsscheck or MAG (a Maßnahmen bei einem Arbeitgeber is an employment placement programme) from their integration support specialist (Integrationsfachkraft) at their local employment agency for an internship. By doing so, you are asking for permission to be allowed to complete the internship and still be able to receive benefits at the same time.
Many training or degree programmes require participants to complete an internship, otherwise known as a compulsory internship. Some training courses even require the completion of an internship before the start of training or study, while for others an internship is part of the programme. The duration is often fixed.
If the internship is to take place without an MAG or Trainingsscheck because you do no receive benefits, an internship contract must be made with the employer in order to avoid misunderstandings or liability problems.
As a rule, the minimum wage (Mindestlohn) requirements apply to internships. If the internship is funded with a Trainingsscheck from the Jobcenter or MAG from the Federal Employment Agency, then the employer does not have to pay a wage.
Counselling Services at the Hamburg Welcome Center
Ausbildungsförderung der Hamburger Wirtschaft e.V.
The Ausbildungsförderung der Hamburger Wirtschaft e.V. is a Hamburg-based economic association for training support which provides counselling on finding a training placement and obtaining introductory qualifications. This introductory qualification comprises 6 to 12 months of long-term internship, including remuneration and social security. The internship is relevant to most dual vocational trainings. The aim of the internship is to be taken on as an apprentice in the same business.
Address: Süderstraße 32b, 20097 Hamburg
Email: handelskammer@welcome.hamburg.de
Tel: (+49) 040 42839-5537 (Wednesday through Friday)
Labour Market Service
At AQtivus, we survey the needs and assess the vocational skills of refugees and migrants seeking employment in Hamburg.
Our aim is to provide training in the fields of skilled crafts and labour, in medical professions or in professions covered by the Chamber of Commerce. We also help to place applicants in internships.
Address: Süderstraße 32b, 20097 Hamburg
Tel: (+49) 040 428 39 5528
You are welcome to seek advice at the Hamburg Welcome Center if you have any further questions. You can contact the Welcome Desk:
