The Czech Republic has been an attractive destination for internships for many years. Cities like Prague and Brno offer a mix of international companies, startups, and local businesses, along with a relatively low cost of living compared to Western Europe. Internships are available in a wide range of fields, and many companies operate in English, especially in international environments. For students and recent graduates, it can be a good way to gain experience while living in a well-connected European city.
Types of internships in the Czech Republic and who can apply
Internships in the Czech Republic are open to both students and recent graduates, but the type of internship you can do depends on your situation.
Some internships are part of university programs and require completion of a degree. Others are independent and can be arranged directly with a company.
You'll typically find:
- Short-term internships (a few weeks to a few months)
- Part-time internships during studies
- Full-time internships, especially during the summer
Some internships are paid, especially in fields like IT, business, and finance. Others, particularly in smaller companies or NGOs, may be unpaid or offer only a small allowance.
Good to know:
Not all internships are formal 鈥渃ontracts.鈥� Some are arranged informally, especially if they are short-term or tied to studies.
Best fields and cities for internships in the Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is particularly strong in certain industries, which makes them the easiest areas to find internships.
Technology and IT are among the most active sectors, especially in Prague and Brno, where many international companies and startups are based. Engineering and manufacturing are also major industries, with opportunities in technical roles, particularly outside Prague in more industrial regions.
Other common fields include marketing, business, finance, education, and hospitality. Prague has the largest number of international companies, shared service centers, and corporate offices, which means more English-speaking opportunities. Brno, on the other hand, has a strong student population and a growing tech scene, often with slightly lower living costs and less competition.
Good to know:
While Prague offers more opportunities overall, Brno is often easier to navigate as a student and can be a better option for longer stays.
How to find an internship in the Czech Republic
Finding an internship works much like finding a job. Most positions are not listed as 鈥渋nternships鈥� specifically, so it's often worth applying to entry-level roles as well.
The most common ways to search include:
- Job platforms and company career pages
- University career centers
- Direct applications to companies
You can also look at international programs such as Erasmus+ or contact organizations that support student mobility.
Networking also plays an important role. Many opportunities are not publicly advertised, so reaching out directly to companies or attending events can help.
Good to know:
English-speaking internships are common in international companies, but knowing some Czech can give you access to more opportunities.
Pay and working conditions for interns in the Czech Republic
Internship pay varies widely depending on the field and company.
In larger companies, especially in tech, finance, or multinational corporations, internships are often paid and can range from around 150 to 300 CZK per hour. Some companies also offer additional benefits such as meal vouchers, flexible hours, or the possibility to transition into a full-time role after the internship.
In other sectors, particularly NGOs, smaller companies, or creative industries, internships are often unpaid. Working hours depend on the type of internship, with students often working part-time during the semester and full-time during holidays.
Visa and legal requirements for interns in the Czech Republic
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can complete internships in the Czech Republic without needing a visa.
For non-EU citizens, the situation is more complex. If your internship is part of your studies, it may be covered under a student visa. For independent internships, you may need a work permit or a specific type of long-term visa, such as a visa for 鈥渙ther purposes鈥� (sometimes used for traineeships, but handled on a case-by-case basis).
Requirements usually include:
- An internship or employment agreement
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance
- Proof of sufficient funds
Processing times can take several weeks, so it's important to plan ahead.
Applying for an internship in the Czech Republic
The application process is similar to applying for a job.
You will usually need:
- A CV (in English or Czech),
- A cover letter,
- References (in some cases).
If selected, you may go through one or more interviews. Once accepted, you will receive an agreement outlining your role, responsibilities, and duration of the internship.
If the internship is part of your studies, there may also be a formal agreement between your university and the company.
Where to get help
There are several places where you can find support when looking for an internship:
- University career services
- Erasmus+ offices and international programs
- Czech National Agency for International Education and Research (DZS)
- Online job portals and expat communities
Reaching out to companies directly is also a common and effective approach.
Useful links:
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
