Can You Get an Internship in Paris as an English Speaker? (And Why Many Students Choose Asia Instead)
Paris has long been a dream destination—whether for fashion, art, business, or the pure romanticism of life in the French capital. So it’s no surprise that thousands of students search “internships in Paris for English speakers” each year, assuming it’s a straightforward option.
But here’s the reality: while it is possible to get an internship in Paris as an English speaker, it’s often more complicated than expected—especially for non-EU students or those without French skills.
This guide will break down how internships in Paris really work, who they’re best for, and why so many students who start with Paris in mind end up choosing more accessible, supported internships in Asia instead.
Important: Asia Internship Program (AIP) does not currently place interns in Paris. But we work with many students who start their search there—and help them land meaningful, English-friendly internships across Asia instead.
Can You Get an Internship in Paris as an English Speaker?
Yes—but there are caveats.
Most internships in Paris still expect at least some level of French. English-only roles exist, but they’re limited and mostly concentrated in:
- Large multinational companies
- Certain industries (finance, consulting, tech, marketing)
- International NGOs or startup teams with global operations
If you’re a non-EU student, the process can be even harder. Many companies prefer interns who are already in Europe (often via exchange programs) because of visa and administrative complexities.
Bottom line: you can find an internship in Paris as an English speaker, but it’s not plug-and-play. You’ll need a strong profile, persistence, and sometimes, connections.
Typical Ways Students Get Internships in Paris
1. University Exchange or Study Abroad
This is the most common route.
Students enrolled in universities that have partnerships in France often intern as part of their exchange. These programs usually include:
- Visa support
- Admin help
- Academic credit
Limitation: This only works if you’re already at a university with a France-based partner.
2. Big Multinational Companies
Some well-known corporations offer internships in Paris with English as the working language, especially in:
- Finance
- Consulting
- Tech
- Marketing & Communications
But: These are highly competitive, often expect French and English, and may prioritize EU citizens.
3. Startups or International Teams
There are startups in Paris that work entirely in English—often in tech or digital sectors.
However: These roles are harder to find, less likely to be advertised widely, and rarely come with structured support like housing or visa assistance.
Challenges of Finding an English-Speaking Internship in Paris
Language Barrier
While English is widely spoken socially, most French workplaces expect at least conversational French—especially in local or mid-sized companies.
Visa & Admin Complexity (Especially for Non-EU)
Internship visas require coordination between the host company and a university or training provider. Many companies aren’t set up for this and prefer students already based in France.
High Cost of Living
Paris is expensive—rent, food, transportation, everything. Combine that with unpaid or low-paid internships, and it becomes a financial stretch.
Limited Support Structure
In Paris, interns usually need to:
- Find their own housing
- Handle all visa paperwork
- Navigate a new city alone
To be clear: This doesn’t mean Paris is off-limits. But for English-speaking students—especially those early in their careers or coming from outside Europe—it’s a narrow, DIY path.
Why Many Students Start with Paris and Choose Asia Instead
It happens more than you think.
Students start with Paris in mind—charmed by movies, media, or the idea of French elegance. But as they dig deeper, they hit walls:
- French-language job listings
- Lack of visa sponsorship
- High cost of entry
- Minimal support
That’s when they begin to consider alternatives.
And for many, Asia starts to look like a smarter, more welcoming option.
Why Asia Is a Strong Alternative for English-Speaking Interns
Here’s why students end up choosing Asia instead:
- Many workplaces use English as a primary or secondary language
- More roles are open to international students
- Lower cost of living in cities like Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, and Kuala Lumpur
- Structured internship programs with visa and housing support
Across countries like Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Singapore, and Japan, students find:
- Professional experiences in business, tech, NGOs, marketing, tourism, and more
- Real projects to work on—even as undergrads or recent grads
- A much smoother experience when using a program like AIP
How AIP Helps English Speakers Find International Internships in Asia
Just to clarify again: AIP does not offer internships in Paris.
But if you’re open to Asia, this is where AIP thrives.
We provide structured internship placements in countries like:
Across industries such as:
- Business & Marketing
- Engineering & IT
- NGOs & Social Impact
- Tourism & Hospitality
Support Includes:
- Matching with English-friendly roles based on your interests
- Housing coordination or assistance
- Visa documentation and guidance
- Local orientation + on-the-ground support
- A global intern community
Compensation:
Compensation varies by host company and isn’t guaranteed. Many internships are unpaid or stipend-based. But they’re designed to deliver skills, global exposure, and long-term career value.
What makes the difference?
In Paris: you manage everything on your own.
With AIP: you get a full support system and more role options—without needing to speak the local language.
FAQs – Paris vs Asia for English-Speaking Interns
Can I get an internship in Paris if I only speak English?
Yes—but roles are limited, and many still prefer some French.
Is Paris or Asia better for an English-speaking student without EU citizenship?
Asia is often more accessible—more English-friendly roles, lower costs, and structured visa support.
Does AIP offer internships in Paris?
No. AIP doesn’t currently place interns in Paris. We work with students who are open to internships in Asia instead.
Why would I choose Asia instead of Paris?
Asia offers more opportunities, lower costs, and stronger program support—especially for students who want a structured, English-speaking experience.
Do I need to speak local languages for internships in Asia?
No. Many roles are English-friendly, and AIP matches you with hosts accordingly.
Are internships in Asia paid?
Compensation varies. Some offer stipends, but most are experience-first—focused on skills, exposure, and learning.
Conclusion + CTA
So—can you intern in Paris as an English speaker? Yes, but it’s tough.
If you’re laser-focused on Paris and already speak French, it might be worth pursuing.
But if your goal is international experience, career growth, and English-friendly support, Asia is a far more open, supported path.
AIP doesn’t place interns in Paris—but we help students find the kind of global internships they were hoping to find there—across Asia.
👉 Explore English-friendly internship destinations in Asia
👉 Book a free consultation with Asia Internship Program (AIP) to talk through your goals
