Whether you’re a postgraduate, young adult, or mature student, our curated placements will help you gain invaluable skills and experience.

We set out to give you a tidy top-10 list, but it’s very hard to rank these in an orderly fashion because different cities will scratch different itches for different people.

So, we’re skipping the numbers game and just laying out 10 places that stand out for interning abroad with us. In no strict order, here they are, each with its own pull, depending on what you’re after.

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul after dark

Seoul is a bustling metropolis that effortlessly straddles modernity and rich cultural heritage simultaneously. If you’re into tech, finance, or media, Seoul’s got a seat for you at the table. It’s a heavyweight in innovation—think global players like Samsung or the slick startups shaping what’s next.

What’s it like day-to-day? Imagine working in the heart of a city where skyscrapers stand alongside ancient palaces, where K-pop, cutting-edge technology, and traditional tea houses coexist. You could spend your lunch break sipping tea in a hanok café or grabbing something quick before a meeting.

For an intern, it’s a chance to experience a place that’s as dynamic as it is grounded. You’ll pick up skills that matter, sure, but you’ll also get a front-row seat to a culture that’s layered and alive. Internships here are generally classified as general training, so foreign interns usually do not need a visa. The visa exemption period for most countries is 90 days.

Interns looking to take programs longer than 90 days will need to leave South Korea and re-enter. This is a straightforward process that involves a short flight to Japan (typically return flights start from USD $120).

Tokyo, Japan

Cherry blossom trees over a canal

Tokyo stands out as a global powerhouse of technology, finance, and culture. Known for often finding itself at the very cutting edge of advancements, Tokyo is home to some of the world’s largest tech companies and financial institutions. The city is a fashion capital, influencing global trends with its unique blend of street style and high fashion.

The business vibe here moves fast. You’ll work hard, but then there’s the payoff: an incredible subway system, cuisine worth writing home about, and pockets of nature that surprise you—like Mount Fuji on a clear day. Entertainment? Endless, from neon-lit arcades to quiet shrines, and a bustling car scene. It’s a lot, but it works.

To get here, most interns will need a Designated Activities Visa. This visa is typically sponsored by the host company. Our Admissions team will provide comprehensive support to help you navigate the visa application process and ensure all necessary documentation is in order.

London, England

Intern in front of the London Eye

London’s got a pull that’s hard to pin down—a financial powerhouse with a unique cultural mix that keeps it buzzing. Its historical foundations run centuries deep, evident in everything from winding cobblestone alleyways to world-renowned museums housing priceless artifacts, while its thriving arts scene and remarkable diversity ensure a constant flow of fresh energy and ideas.

For ambitious professionals seeking stimulation beyond their workplace, London offers an inexhaustible array of experiences. Interning here brings opportunities in finance, marketing, or creative fields with big players all around. It’s a spot that hands you options: practical experience and a chance to network where it counts.

International interns typically require either a Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) visa or qualification under the Youth Mobility Scheme. Both pathways necessitate formal sponsorship from your host organization and documented evidence of sufficient financial resources to support your London living expenses throughout your stay.

New York, USA

Broadway, New York

New York’s got an edge—finance, media, and arts all collide here. It’s loud, it’s busy, and it’s where things happen. Interning means jumping into a pace that doesn’t let up, with a skyline that’s less a backdrop and more a nudge to keep going.

You’re in the thick of it. Think Wall Street, newsrooms, or studios that shape what people see and hear. Every block hums with something: a deal closing, a shoot wrapping, or just the grind of a million lives. It’s a proving ground for people that love a good challenge.

If you’re from the US, no visa is required. If you’re not a citizen, to intern in the United States, you will need a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa. This visa requires sponsorship from an authorized exchange program and involves a detailed application process, including proof of internship and financial support.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney harbour

Sydney’s got a way of mixing work with leisure. For instance, it’s got a solid pulse in business, but the harbor and hills keep it from feeling too stiff. You’re in for a balance that’s hard to beat.

Picture yourself working in a dynamic business environment, yet having the opportunity to unwind at beautiful beaches. Sydney is renowned for its finance and tourism sectors, giving you room to grow with a fun escape from the grind every once in a while.

International interns typically enter Australia through either a Working Holiday Visa or Temporary Work (Short Stay Activity) visa, depending on your specific circumstances.

These visa pathways generally permit both employment and travel throughout the country for periods up to 12 months, giving you ample time to develop professionally while experiencing everything this spectacular city and surrounding regions have to offer.

Paris, France

Paris - Eiffel Tower

Paris, the city of lights, is a leading destination for fashion, art, and business. An internship here can provide unparalleled exposure to international markets and creative industries. Working in the French capital means immersing yourself in an environment where centuries of artistic tradition blend seamlessly with cutting-edge technology.

Your daily commute might take you past architectural masterpieces spanning multiple eras, while lunch breaks could be spent in legacy cafés. This distinctive backdrop provides interns not just with professional skills but with a refined sensibility that distinguishes them in global marketplaces.

International applicants from outside the European Union will need to secure an Internship Visa (VLS-TS) before beginning their placement. This specialized visa permits professional training experiences lasting up to six months within French organizations.

The application process typically requires documentation from your hosting company, proof of academic enrollment, and financial guarantees—preparation well worth the effort for the extraordinary opportunity to develop your career in one of the world’s most influential and inspiring urban centers.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin cityscape

Berlin’s got a spark—startups and creative types run the show here, and it feels like anything could kick off. The past lingers in the streets, but the vibe’s all about what’s next. It’s a sandbox for anyone with ideas.

You’ll find room to grow among people building things from scratch and experience a culture that’s as layered as it gets. Gritty and full of character, it’s definitely a place where you’ll meet some of the most interesting people in the world.

To intern in Germany, non-EU nationals typically need an internship visa or a Working Holiday Visa for certain nationalities. These visas allow you to work in Germany for a specified period.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam bikes, canal

Amsterdam’s got a tech hum that’s picking up speed, paired with a laid-back feel that’s hard to resist. Big names like Google hang out here, and the city’s got your back if you’re looking to grow. It’s a solid spot to plant yourself.

Imagine biking to work along canals—proper paths, no choking on fumes—past houseboats and bridges. Sounds refreshing. The place runs on ideas, with a business crowd that’s sharp but not stuffy.

It’s a city that keeps things open and forward. Work matters here, but so does living well. Amsterdam hands you a chance to build skills in a place that feels human, not just hustle.

For internships in the Netherlands, you may need an Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) visa or a Working Holiday Visa. These visas allow you to stay in the country for up to 12 months.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, the capital of the Emerald Isle, is renowned for its vibrant tech scene and welcoming business environment. This bustling city is home to many global tech giants, including Google, Facebook, and Microsoft, making it a hub for innovation and technology.

It’s busy but not brash, and has a knack for mixing innovation into its old-world bones. It’s an excellent place for professional growth, with heaps of networking opportunities, industry events, and a thriving startup ecosystem. The rich cultural heritage, friendly locals, and lively social scene make it a great destination.

If you are from the EU you won’t need a visa. If you are from outside of the EU, most countries do not need a Visa to do an internship in Ireland for up to 90 days. Students in Ireland with an existing student visa do not need another visa.

You don’t need to worry about the visa; our Admissions team have specialist knowledge in all visa types, and will be able to guide you through the process.

Choosing The Right Place for Your Internship

Picking the right city for your internship isn’t just about landing a job—it’s about finding a spot that lifts your career and feels good to live in. Think about where your field thrives, because being around the right crowd can nudge doors open.

You’ll want a place with a pulse—somewhere with events or communities where you can swap ideas and names over coffee or a pint. Language matters too; if you’re brushing up on Japanese for Tokyo or sticking to English in Dublin, it’s worth knowing what’s expected so you’re not caught off guard.

Beyond work, it’s got to fit your wallet. A city like New York might stretch your budget thin, while Berlin might keep things manageable—check the numbers so you’re not scraping by.

Then there’s the feel of the place: Paris if you’re drawn to art and a slower pace, Sydney if sun and surf is more your thing. Look for what keeps you ticking outside the office, whether that’s hiking near Amsterdam’s canals or catching live music in Dublin. It’s about landing somewhere that works for both your résumé and your downtime.

What to Expect from the Company You Join

When you’re eyeing a company for your internship, it’s worth digging into what they’ll actually bring to the table. A good outfit doesn’t just hand you busywork—they pair you with someone who’s been around the block, ready to steer you through the messier bits of the job.

That kind of guidance can turn a vague gig into something that sticks with you, building skills you’ll lean on later. Make sure they’re clear about what you’ll be doing too—nothing’s worse than showing up to a role that’s all fog and no focus, so ask what’s on your plate from day one.

You want a team that’s got your back and a company that’s known for keeping things open and steady, especially when you’re new to the game.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Picking the best place for your internship could be the move that shapes your career’s next chapter. At Beyond Academy, we’re here to connect you with standout destinations that fuel both your professional growth and personal story.

With our custom-fit internships, steady support, and worldwide ties, you’re set for a ride worth remembering. Take a look at our lineup of locations and see where your path might lead. Reach out today—let’s talk about your ambitions and kick open the door to what’s next!

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