Can You Get an Internship in Paris as an English Speaker?
Quick answer: Yes, you can get an internship in Paris as an English speaker, but options are limited. Most Paris employers expect some French, and non-EU students face extra visa and admin work. Asia is often easier: many workplaces use English, and a program like AIP helps with visas. AIP does not place interns in Paris.
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 many 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 find 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 Do 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 Is Asia 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 smoother experience when you use a program like AIP
How Does AIP Help English Speakers Find 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 can help.
We arrange internships in countries like:
Across industries such as:
- Business & Marketing
- Engineering & IT
- NGOs & Social Impact
- Tourism & Hospitality
Support included
- Matching with English-friendly roles based on your interests
- Housing with Traveler (Standard housing: furnished, with your own bedroom or a shared one with an intern of the same gender, depending on the destination) and Pioneer (a private apartment to yourself, with your own bedroom and bathroom). With Explorer we find your internship and support you throughout; you choose where to live.
- Visa assistance with every program
- Pre-arrival orientation with Traveler and Pioneer, and 24/7 emergency support with every program
Compensation
Compensation varies by host company and isn’t promised. Most international internships are unpaid. 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.
So, can you intern in Paris as an English speaker?
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 call with a career advisor at Asia Internship Program (AIP) to talk through your goals
FAQs
Can I get an internship in Paris if I only speak English?
Yes, but roles are limited, and many employers still prefer some French. English-only roles are mostly in multinationals, finance, consulting, tech, marketing and international teams.
Is Paris or Asia better for an English-speaking student without EU citizenship?
Asia is often more accessible. There are more English-friendly roles, living costs are lower in many cities, and structured programs include visa assistance.
Does AIP offer internships in Paris?
No. AIP does not currently place interns in Paris. We work with students who are open to internships in Asia instead.
Do I need to speak local languages for internships in Asia?
No. Our host companies work in English, and we match you with roles accordingly. A few local words help in daily life.
Are internships in Asia paid?
Compensation varies by host company. Most international internships are unpaid or offer a small allowance, so they are focused on skills, exposure and learning.
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Kate Myat Noe
