Not every internship will give you the same value. Before applying, reflect on the following: 

• Learning goals: What do I want to learn – professionally and personally? Do I want to explore new topics or deepen existing skills?
• Content vs. reputation: Are meaningful tasks more important to me than a well-known company name on my CV?
• Work environment: Would I prefer a start-up, an SME or a large organisation? Which culture fits me best? Should the setting be international?
• Conditions: What about location, salary and duration? How can the internship fit my study schedule and personal situation? 

Tip: Write down your priorities and compare internship offers using these criteria – it will help you identify which opportunity will truly move you forward. 

A high-quality internship typically includes: 

• Meaningful work: learning-oriented tasks, not just basic support work.
• Supervision and feedback: a clear contact person, regular check-ins and defined learning goals.
• Career relevance: activities that relate to your field of study and future ambitions.
• Work environment: a positive culture, team inclusion and, ideally, international exposure.
• Documentation: keep short notes of your responsibilities and outcomes – they will help you update your CV later. 

Legal and salary information 

• Compensation: Internships in Switzerland are generally paid. Typical monthly salaries range from CHF 1,500 – 2,500; in exceptional cases up to CHF 3,500.
• Holidays & reference: You are entitled to paid holidays and a reference letter.
• Employment contract: Always insist on a written contract specifying duration, workload, holidays, trial period, supervisor, salary, insurance coverage and dispute procedures.
• Extension: Internships in Switzerland may only be extended once – this applies to all students, including Swiss citizens 

The same regulations that apply to employment in Switzerland also apply to internships. Work and residence permit regulations differ depending on your nationality and canton of residence. Before signing any internship agreement, make sure to clarify whether you need a work permit.  

Mandatory internship (part of your study programme): 

• EU/EFTA: bis 90 Tage ohne Bewilligung (Meldepflicht), über 90 Tage mit Bewilligung (L oder B).
• Nicht-EU/EFTA: immer Bewilligung erforderlich – der Arbeitgeber stellt den Antrag.
• Mit Aufenthaltsbewilligung B oder C: kein zusätzliches Verfahren nötig.
• EU/EFTA: up to 90 days without a permit (registration required); more than 90 days with a work permit (L or B permit).
• Non-EU/EFTA: a work permit is always required – the employer must submit the application.
• Students holding a B or C residence permit: no additional permit procedure is needed. 

Voluntary internship: 

• EU/EFTA: up to 90 days: registration only; more than 90 days: a work permit is needed
• Non-EU/EFTA: A voluntary internship for non-EU/EFTA applicants is legally possible in Switzerland only in very limited exceptional cases, as a regular work permit is required. Such permits are generally issued only for highly qualified professionals or for positions involving longer-term employment. 

Stagiaire permit: 

• Für 18–35-Jährige aus Ländern mit einem Abkommen mit der Schweiz.
• Voraussetzungen: abgeschlossene Berufsausbildung, Tätigkeit im erlernten Beruf, orts- und branchenübliche Entlöhnung.
• Gültig bis max. 18 Monate, höchstens einmal verlängerbar.
• Offizielle Infos: SEM – Berufspraktikum (Young Professionals)
• For 18- to 35-year-olds from countries that have a specific agreement with Switzerland.
• Requirements: completed vocational education, employment in the trained profession, and salary according to local standards.
• Valid for up to 18 months, renewable once at most.
• Official information: SEM – Professional Internship (Young Professionals)

Important Notes 

• Internships in Switzerland can only be extended once.
• Always request a written employment contract, even for mandatory internships.
• Check visa and work permit requirements well in advance.
• Regulations differ by canton; procedures may vary.
• In case of uncertainty, contact the International Office of the HSLU for guidance and and highly recommended to review the attached presentation
• The Careers Service cannot provide legal or immigration advice regarding work permits or visas

Information is available via: 
Information for students from abroad

Do I need a visa?