An internship is a time-limited practical engagement aimed at career orientation, deepening or preparation for vocational training or studies. Mandatory internships in training contexts, mandatory study internships, orientation internships and voluntary post-qualification internships are distinguished.
The legal status depends heavily on the mandatory character. Mandatory internships are often exempt from minimum wage and can be paid very modestly. Voluntary internships after a completed qualification or longer than three months fall under minimum-wage rules. The German Internship Act, Vocational Training Act and internship contracts regulate rights and duties.
For candidates, well-chosen internships are valuable building blocks: they give industry knowledge, enable networking and provide practical experience in the CV. The crucial distinction is between "real" internships and disguised low-pay roles – anyone working in a regular role at minimum wage should negotiate a proper employment contract.
Lunigi offers mainly regular roles but flags clearly designated trainee and entry-level opportunities.