What is the legal remuneration for an intern in Spain?

Internships abroad are a key step in the academic and professional careers of many students. They enable students to gain practical experience, develop skills and expand their professional network.

However, one question often comes up among the students who use our services: are internships paid in Spain?
Specializing in internship placements abroad since 2014, our team aims to provide a clear overview of the internship situation in Spain and student compensation in this article.

THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR INTERNSHIPS IN SPAIN

In Spain, internships can be governed by two main types of contract:

• Academic internships (or “prácticas curriculares”): These are compulsory internships that form part of the curriculum, often carried out as part of a university degree or vocational training course. These internships are generally unpaid, although some companies offer an allowance or compensation in the form of transport tickets or meals.
• External or non-academic internships (“prácticas extracurriculares”): These internships, which are not an integral part of the school curriculum, are often paid, especially when carried out after graduation or as a trial period for a future job.

TRAINEE REMUNERATION: WHAT ARE THE RULES?

Spanish law stipulates that internships must meet certain conditions in terms of remuneration and social rights, although there is no compulsory remuneration for all types of internship.

• Compulsory internships (prácticas curriculares)

There is no legal obligation to pay for compulsory internships, but more and more companies are choosing to pay their interns. In reality, many of these internships are unpaid, although they may give entitlement to an allowance for expenses incurred (transport, meals, etc.).

• External or post-graduate internships (prácticas extracurriculares)

For non-academic internships, remuneration is often provided. The amount varies according to company and sector, but on average, interns receive a monthly allowance. In 2024, trainee remuneration varied between 500 and 1,000 euros per month, depending on the type of company (SME or large corporation) and the field of activity.

TRAINEE RIGHTS IN SPAIN

Although interns are not considered employees in their own right, they do enjoy certain rights under Spanish law, including:

• The right to compensation: When the internship is paid, the student receives an allowance to cover internship-related expenses.
• The right to social security coverage: If the internship is paid, the student may be entitled to Spanish social security coverage, but this is not compulsory for unpaid internships.
• Working hours: An internship may not exceed 40 hours per week, with some exceptions. The number of hours must be in line with the student’s academic program.
• Respect for working conditions: Trainees must work in conditions that are conducive to learning. The company must provide adequate training and support the trainee throughout the process.

Internship conditions with Stud&Globe’s partner companies

From our extensive network of partner companies located in the main cities of Spain, our team ensures paid internships for all students, although this is not compulsory. In fact, it’s part of the starting condition with all our partners. Salaries range from €200 to €700, depending on the company. You can also count on accommodation and 3 meals a day if you choose the hotel internship option.

Conclusion

In Spain, remuneration for student internships depends largely on the type of internship and the company. While compulsory academic internships remain largely unpaid, post-graduate or extra-curricular internships are often paid, although the amounts vary. Would you like to do an internship in Spain and use our service to ensure that your internship is well paid?