City by City: The Best Destinations for International Students to Intern and Work

25 Jul City by City: The Best Destinations for International Students to Intern and Work

Ready to swap your usual commute for a tuk-tuk in Bangkok? Or to exchange homework for tapas in Barcelona? Perhaps you want to network in a Tokyo skyscraper? 

Students everywhere are heading overseas to intern, collecting both passport stamps and priceless real-world experience along the way. And it’s not just for the Instagram stories (though, let’s face it, those are a sweet bonus). 

According to the Institute of International Education, about one in ten American students will choose to study abroad during their academic careers, with internship placements as one of the fastest-growing segments.

Interning abroad means diving into a new culture, tackling professional challenges head-on, and making connections you’ll remember long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase. 

The hardest part? Picking the city that’ll launch your adventure. 

Choosing your internship experience is like a choose-your-own-adventure novel: your city sets the stage for every twist, turn, and opportunity. 

The right destination shapes your resume, your worldview, your friendships, and (let’s be honest) your social feed. It impacts what industries you’ll have exposure to, whether you’re living like a local or just surviving on instant noodles, and even how you’ll grow personally.

Ready? Let’s unpack the world’s best places to live and learn through internships…so you can get packing yourself!

Bangkok, Thailand: A Gateway to Southeast Asia

Bangkok is the economic heart of Southeast Asia, drawing ambitious interns with its mix of old-world temples and high-tech towers. Think: working in bustling coworking spaces by day, then hopping on a river ferry for evening street food adventures.

Is Thailand Good for Internships?

You bet. Some industries on the rise? Tourism, hospitality, fintech, digital marketing, and finance. Tech startups, in particular, are popular here.

Across the board, companies recognize the fresh perspective international interns bring, especially in tech and hospitality. Many firms value English skills, multicultural backgrounds, and that international je ne sais quoi you have just by showing up.

Can International Students Do Internships in Thailand?

Yes, but with paperwork. Most students need an education (ED) visa endorsed for internships or a business visa from their sponsor company. At Absolute Internship, we’re happy to walk you through the requirements.

Is it Hard to Find a Job in Bangkok?

Not if you’re flexible and open to adventure! Demand is high in hospitality, tech, and education. With the right attitude and a bit of local help, you’ll find something rewarding.

How Much Do Interns Get Paid in Bangkok?

Because Thailand does not mandate intern pay as some other countries (like France) do, salaries are modest—think $300–$500/month. However, you’d be surprised at how far that stretches, as rent, transport, and food are quite wallet-friendly. A spicy noodle dinner might set you back just $2.

Overall, Thailand ranks among the world’s most affordable internship destinations due to its low cost of living.

Barcelona, Spain: A Mediterranean Hub for Creativity

Imagine yourself sketching out strategy for a design startup, then wandering past Gaudí’s masterpieces on your lunch break. That’s life in Barcelona, a city that can turn even the most stoic student into an art lover. Its beaches, tapas bars, and all-hours energy come standard.

Why Intern in Barcelona?

Barcelona is a playground for creativity: designers, architects, marketers, and developers thrive here. The entrepreneurial buzz is infectious, thanks to a strong startup culture and global companies setting up shop.

Are Internships Paid in Barcelona?

There’s no single answer, as Spain’s labor laws related to interns are complex (most don’t require internships to be paid for roles less than three months in duration, though many companies offer compensation nonetheless).

 Many creative and tech internships pay stipends, but some roles, especially in nonprofits, are unpaid. If pay is a must, look for established companies and check your final contracts carefully.

How to Get an Internship in Spain?

Use your networking skills! Meetups, LinkedIn chats, and university career services pave the way. We have an in with several firms, and our alumni network is always buzzing.

Is Barcelona Cheap to Live In?

Not quite, at least, not compared to Bangkok. Rent, especially near the city center or beach, can be high. But transport and food? Much more reasonable. Get to know the local markets: you can live like a king (or at least a happy intern) on a student budget.

Beijing, China: A Global Economic Powerhouse

Beijing is a city that dazzles you one minute with futuristic architecture and humbles you the next with centuries-old palaces. Here, you’ll find China’s biggest companies and dynamic startups, all eager for international minds.

Why Intern in Beijing?

Opportunities span international trade, e-commerce, tech, and finance. If you’re interested in global business trends (and dumplings for lunch), Beijing is your place.

Can International Students Get Internships in China?

Yes, with the right visa. China usually requires an X2 (short-term) or X1 (long-term, often with a special endorsement) visa. Universities and our program advisers help you avoid paperwork headaches.

Is it Easy to Get Internships in China?

Persistence is key. Language skills help, but plenty of companies seek English-speaking interns. Expect a competitive pool, as China attracts ambitious students the world over.

What Are the Disadvantages of Living in Beijing?

Air quality is a genuine concern, so pack a mask and keep an eye on apps for daily updates. Mandarin is a challenging but rewarding language to master; not every shopkeeper speaks English, so phrasebook skills will be your saving grace here.

London, UK: A Global Career Launchpad

Craving a cosmopolitan experience where you can hop from Shakespeare’s Globe to the biggest financial district in Europe, all before tea? Welcome to London.

Why Intern in London?

London’s professional sphere is as diverse as its food markets. Finance, media, tech, fashion…all in all, the city is packed with companies hungry for fresh international talent.

How Can I Get an Internship in London?

First, pad your CV with volunteer gigs or part-time roles. Tap into UK-based job boards, and, of course, check with our team at Absolute Internship. Our local partners are always scouting for international interns.

Are Internships Paid in London?

UK law says most interns receive at least the National Minimum Wage. Some roles even come with travel stipends or lunch vouchers. Check all the details up front, and don’t be shy about asking.

Do You Need a Visa to Intern in London?

Yes. You’ll need either the Tier 4 student visa (if the internship is part of your course) or a Temporary Worker visa for work placements.

Hong Kong: The Gateway to Asia

Hong Kong: skyscrapers, neon lights, street food, and endless ferry rides. If “dynamic” could be epitomized in a city, this would be it.

Why Intern in Hong Kong?

The city is a mash-up of finance, logistics, and creative sectors. If you’ve got hustle, Hong Kong will match it and multiply it.

Can Foreigners Intern in Hong Kong?

Most definitely. A training visa is standard for international interns, and we’ve navigated this path many times.

Do Interns Get Paid in Hong Kong?

Allowances are more typical than salaries. They help with transport and lunch but don’t expect to save a fortune. Careful budgeting makes exploring all those night markets and hikes possible.

Are Unpaid Internships Legal in Hong Kong?

Yes, but the landscape is shifting to favor at least a nominal stipend for most placements. Always read the fine print!

Lisbon, Portugal: A Rising Star for Internships

Lisbon’s got pastel-colored alleys, a booming tech scene, and more sunshine than sense. It’s also surprisingly affordable for students on a budget.

Why Intern in Lisbon?

Tech startups, tourism, digital marketing, and cultural enterprises are on the rise. The friendly vibe means you network at the local café or even while waiting for tram 28.

Can International Students Work in Lisbon?

Yes! If you’re an EU citizen, you’re all set; if not, you’ll need a student visa. Portugal welcomes international students, especially in tech and creative industries.

Is Lisbon Friendly to Foreigners?

Absolutely. The city is frequently listed among the world’s most welcoming for expats. You’ll find English widely spoken, and the local community loves a cultural exchange.

Tokyo, Japan: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Think sushi lunches, futuristic metros, manga shops, and tranquil shrines. Tokyo is massive, magnetic, and mysterious. In other words, unforgettable.

Why Intern in Tokyo?

Fashion, tech, business consultancy, media—Tokyo’s business scene is as bustling as Shibuya Crossing. There’s a deep respect for interns, and companies offer real, challenging projects.

How to Get an Internship in Tokyo?

Check sites like GaijinPot, work with university advisors, or (best of all) tap into our network. Language helps, but many companies are eager for international students.

How Much Do Interns Get Paid in Tokyo?

Expect to earn around $1,000–$1,500 a month. Rent is steeper than elsewhere, but tight budgeting and living with roommates are hacks you can lean on to make it manageable.

Are Internships in Tokyo Paid?

Yes, most are, especially those organized through established programs or universities. Read the contract and confirm, but paid roles are increasingly the norm.

Explore the World with Absolute Internship

Choosing where to build your career isn’t just about geography. It’s about the adventures you’ll remember and the skills you’ll gain. 

Whether you want the spice of Bangkok street food, the art walks of Barcelona, or sunrise views over Lisbon’s red rooftops, an international internship unlocks unforgettable opportunities both on the job and beyond.

Ready to make your move? With us, you’ll have insider support, local tips, and connections in the world’s most exciting cities. Start exploring opportunities on our website and see where the journey takes you.

Because your future career, after all, could be just a plane ride away.