The International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) is looking for a Policy Intern for its Policy Unit in Vienna. The six-month internship starts on 1 February 2027 or 15 February 2027, pays EUR 500 per month for a 40-hour week, and the deadline is 17 November 2026. At Youth Works Hub, we went through the full vacancy and set out every detail below.
A Migration Policy Internship Inside ICMPD's Policy Unit
ICMPD invites all interested candidates to apply for the Policy Intern position (reference VA26P182V01) in the Policy Unit, based in Vienna. Interns gain practical experience with an intergovernmental organisation: conducting research, analysing and synthesising findings, drafting written products, communicating about migration and organising events on topical migration issues.
About the ICMPD Policy Unit
🏛️ The Policy Unit was established in 2017 and is ICMPD's institutional home for its policy analysis, engagement and advisory function
🔬 Its approach combines analytical policy work with the monitoring of migration policy trends and developments
🧑🏫 It provides expert advisory services
🤝 It builds networks and partnerships inside and outside ICMPD, with the aim of improving and supporting better migration policy and practice
🎯 Priority topics for 2027 include labour and skills mobility, temporary protection, post-conflict recovery and reconstruction, and reintegration
Internship at a Glance
🆔 Reference: VA26P182V01 Policy Intern
📍 Duty station: Vienna, Austria
📅 Start date: 1 February 2027 or 15 February 2027
⏱️ Contract duration: 6 months
🕐 Working time: 40 hours per week
💶 Compensation: EUR 500 per month
What You Will Do
🔎 Conduct background research and gather data on topics such as skills mobility partnerships, talent attraction and retention, temporary protection, and return and reintegration, as input for internal and external written outputs
📰 Support the team in staying up to date by monitoring new publications, taking notes at external webinars and sharing information internally
🎪 Assist in organising online and in-person events, including background research, identifying potential participants and notetaking
📣 Contribute to policy outreach and communications activities, to disseminate products and findings widely, ensure visibility and engage with policymakers
🗓️ Otherwise take part in the implementation of day-to-day activities
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Who Can Apply
🎓 A recently completed university degree, or current enrolment in a master's/PhD programme in a relevant field, such as migration studies, public policy, political science, sociology or economics
📚 Knowledge of migration policy issues
📊 Understanding of research methods and migration data sources
✍️ Solid oral and written command of English, including excellent writing and editing skills
🗂️ Strong organisational skills, excellent communication skills and attention to detail
💻 Advanced computer literacy and practical experience using Microsoft applications
⏳ Strong time management skills, including managing conflicting priorities and working with tight deadlines
🌐 Interest in working in a multidisciplinary team and an international environment
🚀 Excellent interpersonal skills, a proactive work approach, adaptability and flexibility
Pay, Leave and Insurance
💶 ICMPD offers EUR 500.00 per month for a 40-hour-per-week internship, including 1.5 leave days per month
📨 Leave should be requested by email in advance with the lead or supervisor
🩹 ICMPD provides accident insurance for the duration of the internship
✈️ Travel expenses are not reimbursed
🏥 Health insurance is the intern's responsibility
If you are comparing options, our guide to paid internships abroad explains how paid traineeships work, and you can browse more roles in the Internship category on Youth Works Hub.
Intern Status and Visas
An intern is not a staff member of ICMPD. An intern who is not a citizen of the country of the duty station is responsible for obtaining any necessary visas and for complying with local laws on registration with the local authorities.
How to Apply
Email your CV and motivation letter, in English and in PDF format, to the application address listed below. Use the subject title: Application: Intern – Policy Unit – [Your Full Name]. Applications must be received by midnight (CET) on the closing date. Due to the high volume of applications, only short-listed candidates are contacted, and applicants are expected to be available for a personal or telephone interview.
Good to Know
ICMPD retains the discretion to re-advertise the vacancy or to cancel the recruitment. Selected candidates have to provide a signed statement of exclusivity and availability, as well as evidence supporting the educational and professional experience record as per their application.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the deadline for the ICMPD Policy Intern position?
Applications must be received by midnight (CET) on 17 November 2026.
How long is the internship and when does it start?
It lasts 6 months. The start date is 1 February 2027 or 15 February 2027.
Is the ICMPD Policy Intern position paid?
Yes. ICMPD offers EUR 500.00 per month for 40 hours per week. Accident insurance is provided, while travel expenses are not reimbursed and health insurance is the intern's responsibility.
Who is eligible to apply?
A recently completed university degree or current enrolment in a master's/PhD programme in a relevant field, such as migration studies, public policy, political science, sociology or economics.
How do I send my application?
Email your CV and motivation letter in English and PDF format, with the subject Application: Intern – Policy Unit – [Your Full Name]. Only short-listed candidates are contacted.
Deadline
⏳ 17 November 2026
Links
🔗 Internship page: https://www.icmpd.org/work-with-us/internships
📧 Application email: policy@icmpd.org
