Where Are Unpaid Internships Legal?

11 Aug Where Are Unpaid Internships Legal?

Have you ever heard of the “Experience Paradox”? It’s the idea that you need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience.

Internships are the solution to this paradox, serving as the launchpads for millions of careers around the globe. 

But there’s a twist, one that may have already sent you to Google in a panic at 2 a.m. as you prep for your internship search. Are unpaid internships legal?

Whether you see them as invaluable stepping stones or exploitative loopholes, unpaid internships are a complex topic. They’re tangled in cultural norms, legal gray zones, and the question of who really benefits. 

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at where exactly unpaid internships are legal, breaking down international trends, and offering tips on navigating this tricky terrain. 

The Global Landscape of Unpaid Internships

Before we go into our country-by-country breakdown of where internships must be paid, let’s first talk about some of the nuts and bolts of this problem.

Why Are Unpaid Internships Controversial?

Few topics make budding professionals clutch their coffee cups tighter than that of unpaid internships. 

On one side, the cheerleaders argue that these experiences open doors when options are slim, offering networking opportunities and real-world skills. On the other side? Critics who see only barriers. 

One big issue is accessibility. For many, taking an unpaid position just isn’t feasible, especially when the cost of living saps the energy (and bank accounts) of those in their early career stages. There’s also the ethical concern of labor exploitation. 

If someone’s delivering value to an organization, shouldn’t they be compensated? 

How Are Unpaid Internships Regulated?

The rules about unpaid internships vary significantly. Countries like the United Kingdom enforce minimum wage laws for most workers, interns included (with a few exceptions). 

Others, like the United States, have stricter definitions for unpaid internships. These roles must meet specific educational criteria so companies don’t dodge fair pay. 

What Factors Influence Internship Pay?

It’s not always about the laws; there are other factors that also shape whether internships come with a paycheck. 

The industry plays a big role. Tech companies, for example, are notorious for lavishly paid internship programs, while non-profits often lean heavily on unpaid positions due to tight budgets. 

Company size matters, too. Interning at a scrappy startup often differs financially from working with a corporate giant. 

And finally, academic credit or mandatory training can make unpaid internships legally permissible, as they’re seen more as learning experiences than actual jobs. 

Country-Specific Insights on Internship Pay

Now that we’ve painted the big picture, it’s time to get specific. What’s the deal with unpaid internships in different parts of the world? 

Do Interns Get Paid in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong interns know one thing for sure: business is booming in this hub of finance and trade. But is the compensation equally strong? It depends. 

Unpaid internships are common, especially for students gaining entry into competitive industries like finance or journalism. It’s not unusual for organizations to justify unpaid roles by offering mentorship and the allure of “prestige.” 

However, larger corporations, particularly multinational ones, are more likely to pay interns. 

As for the legal requirements, there’s some fine print. Hong Kong labor laws don’t mandate wages for student internships linked to academic programs, so students often find themselves working for free when credit is involved. 

Do Interns Get Paid in Poland?

Poland, despite its vibrant startup culture and growing economy, leans heavily on unpaid internships, especially for university students who take internships as part of their coursework. Polish labor law does step in when internships are formal agreements between the company and an appointed educational institution, but outside that framework, you’ll need to negotiate your terms. 

Interns entering tech, consulting, or engineering roles are the most likely to see a paycheck, while other sectors often cling to unpaid practices. 

Are Internships Paid in London?

If you’re interning in London, good news. You’re more likely to get paid. As mentioned earlier, the UK has robust worker protections, including minimum wage laws that typically apply to interns. Organizations can’t skirt this by rebranding work as “volunteering” unless the role is truly charitable or for a non-profit cause. 

Large financial firms and media conglomerates likely offer hefty compensation packages for interns, while smaller organizations might rely on college-credit loopholes to keep their opportunities unpaid. 

Are Internships in Madrid Paid?

Spain has a labor-law puzzle of its own, with Madrid standing out as a hotbed of internship opportunities. The country has leaned into unpaid internships for years, often tied to academic programs. 

However, new labor reforms have begun to take shape, demanding that interns receive financial compensation, such as stipends or reimbursements. 

That said, culturally, unpaid internships remain more common in creative industries like fashion or art. If you’re an intern in Madrid, check your agreement carefully. 

Do Interns Get Paid in Singapore?

Singapore blends efficiency with a robust internship culture. Paid internships are far more common in this bustling economic powerhouse. Industries like finance, tech, and engineering offer generous stipends or salaries, while others (like the arts) are more grounded in unpaid options. 

The government provides clear guidelines to make sure internships don’t exploit students. Companies offering unpaid internships must have a training and educational focus to pass legal muster. 

Is an Unpaid Internship Legal in Sweden?

Sweden is a pioneer when it comes to workers’ rights, and interns are no exception. Unpaid internships are frowned upon and often outright illegal unless they’re directly tied to educational programs. Sweden emphasizes fairness and compensation, making sure interns are seen as valuable contributors, not free labor. 

Industries like healthcare, education, and technology follow strict labor guidelines to ensure interns are well-compensated. 

Are Internships in Tokyo Paid?

The bustling metropolis of Tokyo is a mixed bag when it comes to internships. The pay largely depends on the industry. Tech and engineering companies typically offer excellent stipends or salaries. 

Meanwhile, students entering creative fields or traditional arts often encounter unpaid opportunities, typically couched in cultural norms emphasizing “gaining experience” over financial compensation. 

Legally, there’s little framework to protect interns, but the professional etiquette of major Japanese corporations ensures many interns are treated fairly. 

How Many Hours Do Interns Work?

Just like pay varies widely, so, too, do the hours interns work. Some internships, particularly unpaid ones, cap at part-time hours (about 15–20 per week), so students can balance coursework. Others, especially in competitive, high-paying fields, can demand full-time or even overtime hours. 

A good rule of thumb? Clarify your weekly time commitment before signing any agreement. And no matter where you are, prioritize work-life balance to avoid burnout. 

Final Thoughts

Unpaid internships can be confusing and uncertain, to say the least. They might open doors to new careers or serve as financial obstacles for those unable to work without pay. Across the globe, laws and norms differ dramatically, and it’s important that you take the time to understand them before taking the plunge. 

If you’re an intern-to-be, research your host country’s laws and arm yourself with knowledge about your rights. 

And remember, unpaid doesn’t always mean unworthy. If the experience offers connections, resume-boosting skills, or a foot in the door, it could still be worth your time. 

If you find yourself eyeing global internship opportunities, choose Absolute Internship. We’ve got the expertise to help you find paid internships in cities around the world. 

Curious to know more? Visit our website and take the next step in your career adventure.