WTO Internship Programme 2026 | Paid International Internship in Switzerland

Switzerland hosts one of the most important international organizations in the world the World Trade Organization (WTO). The WTO Internship Programme 2026 is a highly regarded, paid internship opportunity that allows postgraduate students and young professionals to gain hands-on experience at the heart of global trade policy, rules, negotiations, dispute settlement, and research.

This is not just another internship it is a chance to work directly inside the WTO secretariat in Geneva, contribute to real policy work, and build a professional network that opens doors in international trade, diplomacy, international organizations, governments, NGOs, think tanks, law firms, and global companies. Also apply for Erasmus Mundus Internships 2026 in Europe

The programme is open to nationals of WTO member states (or countries in accession negotiations) and runs for a maximum of 6 months. It is one of the most competitive and respected internships in the international public sector. Also apply for GRIPS Summer Research Internship

What Is the WTO Internship Programme?

The WTO Internship Programme allows selected postgraduate students to spend up to 6 months working in one of the WTO’s divisions or sections in Geneva. Interns are assigned meaningful tasks under the supervision of experienced WTO staff and contribute to the daily work of the organization.

Key facts:

• Duration: Up to 6 months (can be shorter)
• Location: WTO headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
• Remuneration: Daily allowance of CHF 60 (≈ USD 70) per day worked
• Paid: Yes (modest daily stipend)
• Full-time: Yes (usually 40 hours/week)
• Language: Excellent English and/or French and/or Spanish required (working languages of WTO)
• No application fee
• Open to postgraduate students (Master’s level and above)
• Rolling recruitment so apply at any time

Interns gain exposure to trade policy, legal analysis, economic research, negotiations, technical assistance, and dispute settlement and areas that are central to global commerce.

Eligibility Criteria

You qualify if you meet all of these requirements:

• Be a national of a WTO member state or a country currently in accession negotiations
• Be at least 21 years old and no older than 30 years old at the time of application
• Have completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (law, economics, international relations, political science, etc.)
• Be enrolled in (or have recently completed) a postgraduate degree (Master’s, PhD, or equivalent)
• Have excellent knowledge of at least one WTO working language (English, French, or Spanish) very good written and spoken ability required
• Have not previously participated in the WTO Internship Programme
• Be available for a minimum of 12 weeks (most placements are 4–6 months)

Strong opinion: Age limit (max 30) is strictly enforced. Language skills (especially English + French or Spanish) are critical weak language ability leads to rejection even with strong academics.

Also Check:

• OIST Internship Program in Japan
• CSIS Internships 2026 in the USA | Paid Internships

Internship Benefits

The WTO Internship Programme is paid and provides:

• Daily allowance: CHF 60 per day worked (≈ USD 70 / day)
• Duration: Up to 6 months (paid only for days actually worked)
• Access to WTO library, databases, research resources, and internal training
• Opportunity to attend selected WTO meetings, seminars, and events
• Networking with WTO staff, delegates, and other interns
• Certificate of participation upon successful completion
• No tuition or programme fees

Note: The daily allowance is modest but realistic for Geneva (high cost of living). Many interns supplement it with savings or family support. The experience and network are the real value.

Areas of Work Available

Interns are placed in various WTO divisions depending on needs and background:

• Trade Policy Review
• Legal Affairs (dispute settlement)
• Rules (anti-dumping, subsidies, safeguards)
• Market Access
• Agriculture and Commodities
• Services and Investment
• Intellectual Property (TRIPS)
• Trade and Environment
• Development Division
• Economic Research and Statistics
• Information Technology Solutions
• Human Resources
• External Relations
• Languages (translation/interpretation support)
• Many others

Most placements are in policy, legal, economic, or technical divisions.

Required Documents

• Online application form (via WTO e-Recruitment system)
• CV / résumé
• Motivation letter (explaining interest in WTO and specific area)
• University transcripts / degree certificates
• Proof of enrolment in postgraduate programme (or recent graduation certificate)
• Proof of nationality (passport copy)
• Language certificates (if available not always mandatory)

Why Choose the WTO Internship Programme?

• Work inside one of the most important international organizations
• Gain real experience in global trade policy and law
• Build a network with WTO staff, ambassadors, and diplomats
• Paid daily allowance (rare for internships at this level)
• Geneva is the world capital of international organizations and perfect for career networking
• Strong stepping stone to WTO Young Professionals Programme, UN agencies, trade ministries, law firms, think tanks

Geneva is safe, international, and beautiful but though expensive.

Contrarian view: Daily allowance is modest for Geneva’s high cost of living. But the prestige, experience, and network are unmatched.

Living Costs in Geneva (Beyond Allowance)

Single person: CHF 2,000–3,000/month (Numbeo Jan 2026) Shared rent: CHF 800–1,500 Food: CHF 500–800 Transport: CHF 80–150 (many interns walk or cycle)

Interns often share apartments or use university housing to reduce costs.

Application Checklist

• Prepare strong CV (highlight academic + any trade/policy experience)
• Write clear motivation letter (why WTO? why your chosen area?)
• Collect transcripts & proof of postgraduate enrolment/graduation
• Passport copy ready
• Apply via careers.wto.org (rolling basis)
• Follow up politely if no response after 2–3 months

How to Apply for WTO Internship Programme ?

Applications are accepted year-round (rolling basis):

1. Go to the official WTO e-Recruitment portal: careers.wto.org
2. Search for “Internship” or “WTO Internship Programme”
3. Create an account or log in
4. Complete the online application form
5. Upload required documents (CV, motivation letter, transcripts, proof of studies)
6. Submit your application
7. Wait for review as placement decisions are made as vacancies arise
8. If selected, receive an offer letter and start visa/residence permit process

Tip: Apply early in the year for better chances. Specify your preferred division(s) and explain how your background fits WTO work.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without postgraduate enrolment or recent graduation
• Weak motivation letter (generic or no WTO connection)
• Not specifying preferred division(s)
• Poor English/French/Spanish (WTO working languages)
• Late application for popular periods (Jan–June placements fill fast)

PAA: Fully funded? Paid (daily allowance CHF 60) + no tuition. Deadline? Rolling (apply anytime). Open to all nationalities? Yes (WTO members + accession countries).

Strong opinion: The WTO Internship Programme is one of the most prestigious entry points into international trade and global governance careers. Paid + real work + Geneva network = unbeatable for serious applicants. Apply now as placements are ongoing.