Internships in Copenhagen, Denmark for International Students

Copenhagen, Denmark's vibrant and forward-thinking capital, consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities. Renowned for its innovative design, bike-friendly streets, rich Nordic culture, and iconic landmarks, Copenhagen offers a unique and enriching environment for international students seeking internship opportunities. Interning in Copenhagen provides not only invaluable professional experience but also a chance to immerse yourself in a dynamic and thriving culture.

Why Copenhagen for Internships?

Denmark is a highly sought-after destination for students seeking internships overseas. The country is known to be one of the happiest in the world and has a very high standard of living. It also has a high level of income equality and ranks among the highest in the world in terms of GDP per capita and the average minimum wage. The country is a leader in many different areas so interns will have endless options when it comes to choosing what sector they want to work in. Internships in Denmark also allow interns to experience life in a Nordic country that is constantly thriving! In addition to having many international companies and organizations, Copenhagen is also a great location to spend your free time. There are many museums, festivals, and concerts that contribute to the high quality of life in Denmark. As the happiest country in the world, Denmark also boasts a great work culture and work-life balance. As interns are paid, they will be treated with the same kind of respect as regular employees. You will be held to a high standard and expected to perform at your very best while you are on the job.

Benefits of Interning in Copenhagen

Embarking on an internship in Copenhagen presents a rare chance to acquire invaluable field experience, all within the lively embrace of one of Europe’s most dynamic cities.

Vibrant City: Copenhagen is known for its dynamic atmosphere, modern infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene. Interning here allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s energy and explore its rich history and contemporary charm.
Global Business Hub: Copenhagen is a thriving business hub with a strong presence of multinational corporations, startups, and innovative industries. By interning here, you gain exposure to a diverse range of industries and connect with professionals from around the world.
High-Quality Work Environment: Danish workplaces are characterized by a high standard of professionalism, open communication, and a healthy work-life balance. Interning in Copenhagen provides an opportunity to experience this positive work environment and learn from experienced professionals.
Educational Excellence: Denmark is renowned for its high-quality education system.

Internship Fields in Copenhagen

Copenhagen offers internships across various industries, providing diverse opportunities for aspiring professionals. Some of the industries that commonly offer internships in Copenhagen include:

Technology and IT
Finance and Banking
Design and Architecture
Marketing and Advertising
Hospitality and Tourism
Education and Research
Renewable Energy and Sustainability
Global health
Human rights
Film production

These industries represent a sample of the internship opportunities available in Copenhagen. Additionally, internships can be found in fields like healthcare, media, fashion, international relations, and more.

Finding Internship Programs

Piktalent is an online platform where students, educational institutions and companies can find each other with ease. It’s free to register, apply for vacancies and use our system. What’s more, all our basic services are completely free for students and educational institutions to use. For students or educational institutions who require extra help and personal support in organizing mobility placements, we have custom solutions- that may require the payment of a service fee. The university has a student portal for researching local projects and possible internship positions.

CIEE Internship Programs in Copenhagen

CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) offers structured internship programs in Copenhagen designed to provide international students with a comprehensive and immersive experience.

CIEE Semester Global Internship Program

This program typically lasts 12 weeks and includes:

Full-time Internship: A 30-40 hour per week internship with an international organization. Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement.
Internship Seminar: A seminar designed to enhance your internship experience and provide professional development.
Academic Course: A 3-credit academic course taught online through CIEE’s global academic partner, ASU (Arizona State University). Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development.
Excursions and Cultural Activities: CIEE organizes excursions and cultural activities to help you explore Denmark’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty. Samples of past excursions and activities: Visit the National Museum and see how Copenhagen transformed from a 10th-century fishing village to a world leader in sustainability and innovation. Explore the professional working world of Copenhagen through site visits, networking events, and guest lectures. Take a short train trip across the bridge to Sweden and explore the young city of Malmø. Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback.

CIEE Summer Global Internship Program

This program is an 8-week program that includes:

Full-time Internship: A 30-40 hour per week internship with an international organization.
Internship Seminar: Designed to enhance your experience.
Excursions and Cultural Activities: CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Copenhagen will open doors for you to explore Denmark’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.

Housing Options with CIEE

CIEE Copenhagen offers two different housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. Housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to efficient and green public transportation, shops, cafés, grocery stores, and anything you’d need to live like a true Copenhagener.

Read also: Unlock summer legal internships

Standard Housing: Includes accommodation in a double room in a residence hall or a shared room in a shared apartment, within a 35-minute commute to CIEE Center.
- Residence Halls: The double rooms are equipped with a kitchenette and an en-suite bathroom. Residence halls provide shared common spaces with a larger, communal kitchen, multiple study/hangout areas, and gym facilities.
- Shared Apartments: Apartments feature double and/or triple rooms, with shared living areas, bathrooms, and a full kitchen.
Select Housing: Includes a single room in a residence hall or a single room in a shared apartment, within a 35-minute commute to CIEE Center. Select housing requires an additional fee.
- Residence Halls: The single rooms are equipped with a kitchenette and an en-suite bathroom. Residence halls provide shared common spaces with a larger, communal kitchen, multiple study/hangout areas, and gym facilities.
- Shared Apartments: Apartments feature single rooms, with shared living areas, bathrooms, and a full kitchen.

The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Meals are not included. Students prepare their own meals in their own kitchenette or the residence hall’s shared kitchen facilities. CIEE provides basic cooking utensils and cleaning supplies.

CIEE Copenhagen Location

CIEE Copenhagen: Study in the heart of Denmark's capital, roughly one block from the historic Rosenborg Castle in one direction and the iconic Round Tower in the other. CIEE Copenhagen boasts five classrooms, and a stunning study space overlooking the public square below, a student life office, and an academic advising.

CIEE Staff

Emily Ronek: brings several years of non-profit experience to CIEE, working in different capacities with Danish organizations that focus on youth development.
Olsi Kusta: As Academic director for CIEE Copenhagen, brings a diverse professional career that blends practice-oriented research skills with problem solving approaches in logistics and education. He engages with researching…
Pola: is a Program Coordinator with a master's degree in psychology and a master's in international relations studies. She takes a personal approach to student support, ensuring that individuals feel…

Visa and Permit Requirements

Yes, international interns in Copenhagen typically require a valid visa or work permit to legally work and intern in Denmark. The specific visa requirements depend on factors such as the duration of the internship, nationality, and the type of internship program. Here are some common visa options for international interns:

Schengen Visa: If your internship in Copenhagen is for a short duration (up to 90 days), you may be eligible for a Schengen visa. This visa allows you to travel and intern in Denmark and other Schengen area countries for tourism, business, or educational purposes.
Danish Work Permit: For internships lasting longer than 90 days, you may need to apply for a Danish work permit. The specific work permit category depends on factors such as the nature of the internship, your qualifications, and the sponsoring organization. Your host organization or employer in Copenhagen will typically guide you through the work permit application process.
EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals: If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you generally have the right to work and intern in Denmark without a work permit. However, it’s advisable to check the specific requirements and registration processes with the Danish immigration authorities to ensure compliance.

It’s crucial to begin the visa application process well in advance of your intended internship start date, as it may take time to gather the necessary documents and complete the application process. If you are planning to be in Denmark for less than three months you will only need to obtain a visa. To be eligible to receive residence and work permits, interns must meet certain requirements.

Language Skills

While it is beneficial to have knowledge of the Danish language when interning in Copenhagen, it is not always necessary. Many internships in Copenhagen, especially in multinational companies and organizations, are conducted in English. English is widely spoken and understood in Denmark, and the majority of Danes have a high level of English proficiency. However, having basic knowledge of Danish can be advantageous for day-to-day interactions, cultural immersion, and building relationships with colleagues and locals. Learning some common phrases or taking language classes can help you navigate daily life and enhance your experience while interning in Copenhagen.

Internship Duration

The duration of internships in Copenhagen can vary depending on several factors, including the specific internship program, company policies, and the needs of the host organization. Here are some common durations for internships in Copenhagen:

Short-term internships: These internships typically last for a few weeks to a few months. They are often offered during summer breaks or as part of specific projects or initiatives.
Semester-length internships: These internships align with academic semesters and can last for approximately 3 to 6 months. They are popular among students who wish to gain practical experience while studying.
Long-term internships: Some internships in Copenhagen may extend beyond a semester or academic term, lasting from 6 months to a year or even longer. These internships offer more in-depth and comprehensive work experience.

It’s important to note that the exact duration of internships can vary significantly depending on individual arrangements and the specific requirements of each internship opportunity. When exploring internship opportunities in Copenhagen, it’s advisable to carefully review the internship descriptions and inquire about the expected duration during the application process.

Paid vs. Unpaid Internships

While some internships offer financial compensation, others may be unpaid or provide non-monetary benefits such as accommodation, transportation, or meals. The payment policy for internships depends on several factors, including the industry, company size, internship duration, and the organization. According to government requirements, interns in Denmark must make at a minimum around $880 per month (equal to the Danish student grant amount). It’s important to carefully review the internship description and have transparent communication with the host organization regarding compensation and benefits. Some internships may explicitly mention whether they offer payment or stipends. If an internship is unpaid, it’s worth considering the potential learning opportunities, professional growth, and networking possibilities it may provide. Furthermore, interns in Copenhagen are protected by Danish labor laws, which specify certain rights and conditions for interns, including working hours, workplace safety, and access to training. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the local labor regulations and seek clarification from the host organization regarding any concerns or questions about compensation and working conditions.

Cost of Living

Denmark can be pricey, and interns should be sure they have around $1,000 per month to cover basic living costs, including housing and food. According to Numbeo, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can range from $12 to $23 so you may want to think twice before going out to eat dinner every night!

Here’s an estimated breakdown of monthly expenses in Copenhagen (in Danish Krone - KKD and Euro - €):

Accomodation: 4,000 - 7,000 KKD (340€ - 596€)
Utilities: 700 - 900 KKD (60€ - 80€)
Groceries: 1,600 - 2,400 KKD (130€ - 200€)
Eating out: 900 - 1,800 KKD (76€- 153€)
Transportation: 400 - 500 KKD (30€-50€)
Average cost of living between 7,600 - 13,500 KKD (670€ - 1150€)

Preparing for Your Internship

Any interested potential intern traveling to Denmark should have a basic understanding of the country before heading there.

Accommodations: Accommodations range from host families to hostels, apartments, houses, and residence halls. It is important to find and reserve a room or housing before arriving. CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee.
Visa and paper requirements: Interns are required to have a visa-specifically non-EU participants.
Language skills: Always check for language requirements for any program.
Cost and logistics: Denmark can be pricey, and interns should be sure they have around $1,000 per month to cover basic living costs, including housing and food. Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses.
Health and safety: Read up on the current health and safety regulations of X and your program.
Cultural and social etiquette: Danish people communicate informally, they enjoy humor and kindness and aren’t afraid to talk about their personal lives. There is a time and place to be more formal and professional, like working hours.

Making the Most of Your Internship

Any intern should consider making goals to get the most out of their experience. Consider how Denmark’s cultural influence can help you grow as a person. Regarding the internship, brainstorm and choose a specific or a few skills or techniques you’d like to spend some extra time with. Connect with peers, professionals, and even locals to expand your professional (and personal) network. Interning in Denmark comes with rewarding professional and cultural advantages. Danish internships emphasize work-life balance, so interns experience a healthier approach to professional growth.

tags: #internships #in #Copenhagen #Denmark #for #international