The INTERPOL Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain professional experience with the world's largest international police organization. Interns work alongside professionals in international law enforcement, criminal intelligence, cybersecurity, communications, human resources, legal affairs, digital innovation, finance, and other support services. (Interpol)
Internship Overview
Organization: INTERPOL
Headquarters: Lyon
Other Duty Stations: Opportunities may also be available in locations such as Singapore and other INTERPOL offices, depending on the vacancy. (Interpol)
Programme Type: Paid Internship
Duration: 6 to 11 months
Eligible Applicants: Nationals of INTERPOL's member countries
Language: English is required for most internships. (Interpol)
Internship Benefits
Selected interns receive:
Monthly internship allowance of EUR 700
Monthly transport subsidy of EUR 30
Additional housing subsidy of EUR 170 for eligible interns
Practical experience in an international organization
Professional networking opportunities
Exposure to international policing and global security cooperation
Mentorship from experienced professionals
Valuable international work experience that strengthens future career prospects. (Interpol)
Note: Interns are generally responsible for their own travel, accommodation, visa costs, and living expenses. INTERPOL provides the documentation needed to support visa applications but does not normally cover these costs. (Interpol)
Internship Fields
Internships may be available in areas including:
Criminal Intelligence
Counter-Terrorism
Cybercrime
Financial Crime
Organized Crime
Human Resources
Communications
Legal Affairs
Strategic Planning
Information Technology
Digital Innovation
Data Analysis
Finance and Administration
International Cooperation. (Interpol)
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
Be enrolled in a post-secondary accredited institution or have graduated within one year before submitting the application.
Be a national of one of INTERPOL's member countries.
Have reached the legal age of majority in their country.
Be fluent in English.
Meet any additional requirements listed in the specific internship vacancy. (Interpol)
Required Documents
A typical application includes:
Updated CV or résumé
Cover letter explaining your motivation
Academic transcripts (if requested)
Proof of enrolment or recent graduation
Passport or national ID (if requested)
Candidates selected for an internship will also need to complete a security vetting process and provide criminal record certificates from their country of nationality and any country where they have lived for more than 12 months during the previous five years. (Interpol)
How to Apply
Visit the official INTERPOL Recruitment Hub.
Search for available internship vacancies.
Select an internship that matches your qualifications.
Create an online account.
Complete the application form.
Upload your CV and cover letter.
Submit your application before the deadline.
Applications sent by email or post are not accepted. (Interpol)
Cover Letter Tips
Your cover letter should explain:
Why you want to intern at INTERPOL.
Why you are interested in the specific internship.
The knowledge and skills you can contribute.
What you hope to gain from the internship.
INTERPOL specifically asks applicants to address these points in their motivation letter. (Interpol)
CV Tips
A strong INTERPOL CV should highlight:
Education
Relevant coursework
Research projects
Volunteer work
Leadership experience
Language skills
Computer and technical skills
International experience
Measurable achievements
Tailor your CV to the requirements of each internship announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the INTERPOL internship paid?
Yes. Eligible interns receive a monthly allowance, transport support, and, where applicable, a housing subsidy. (Interpol)
Can international students apply?
Yes, provided they are nationals of one of INTERPOL's member countries and meet the eligibility criteria. (Interpol)
Do I need to study criminal justice?
No. INTERPOL offers internships in policing as well as support functions such as IT, communications, HR, finance, legal affairs, and administration. (Interpol)
Where are internships based?
Most are located at INTERPOL Headquarters in Lyon, France, although some opportunities are offered in other duty stations. (Interpol)
How long do internships last?
Internships typically last between 6 and 11 months. (Interpol)
Do I need French?
Not usually. Good working knowledge of English is required, while additional languages such as French, Arabic, or Spanish may be an advantage for certain roles. (Interpol)