Salary and Minimum Wage (Mindestlohn) in a Voluntary Internship (Freiwilliges Praktikum)

In the case of a voluntary internship (Freiwilliges Praktikum) in Germany, the salary is subject to precise legal conditions—especially whether the internship is short-term or long-term, and also the student’s study status. Here are the full details:

Does the company have to pay the minimum wage (Mindestlohn)?
Answer: Sometimes yes, sometimes no—depending on the following cases:

1. If you are a student and you do a voluntary internship outside your studies (Freiwilliges Praktikum außerhalb des Studiums):

Currently, the minimum wage in Germany (as of 2024) is:
€12,41 per hour (and it may increase later)

Practical example:
If you work 40 hours/week × 12,41 € × 4.3 weeks =
≈ 2.134 € per month (gross – before deductions)

Important exceptions:

• If you are still in school (Schülerpraktikum) or

• If the internship is a mandatory part of the study program (Pflichtpraktikum)

In both cases, the law does not require payment of Mindestlohn—and the internship may be completely unpaid.

What about a voluntary summer internship for university students?
If:

• the internship is not required by the university and

• it lasts 3 months or more

then the law requires the company to pay the minimum wage, unless:

• there is a special permit or a rare exception

Are taxes or insurance contributions deducted?

Practical summary:

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ـ* The team of writers and editors on the website strives to provide accurate information through intensive research and reviewing multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Therefore, the information in the articles should be considered preliminary guidance, and you should always refer to the competent authorities to obtain confirmed information.