Health & Safety

International internships require careful health and safety planning. The Intern Group’s programs are structured to meet best-practice standards for internship abroad safety, travel insurance coverage, crisis response, and participant safeguarding.

TIG interns having fun and staying safe in Medellin.

The Intern Group prioritizes intern health, safety, and wellbeing across all in-person and remote programs. Whether you are joining us abroad in one of our 9 global destinations or completing a remote internship from home, you’ll have continuous support, clear emergency procedures, and access to professional assistance when needed. 

In recognition of our structured safety systems and safeguarding standards, GoOverseas named us a Top Internship Provider for Safety in 2025 and 2023. 

Interns in Hong Kong February 2026

Are international internships safe?

When structured properly, international internships are a safe and professionally transformative experience.

The Intern Group operates a structured health and safety framework designed specifically for international and remote internships. Safety isn’t handled as a single policy - it’s built into every stage of the internship experience, from pre-departure preparation to on-program support. 

Our approach combines:

  • 24/7 on-the-ground or virtual support
  • Professionally vetted accommodation in each destination
  • Formal crisis response procedures developed with global risk specialists
  • Ongoing monitoring of government travel advisories
  • Dedicated emergency contact systems
  • Confidential mental health access for all interns

Preparing for travel & living abroad

Before you depart, you’ll receive detailed information to help you feel prepared for your destination. This includes guidance on local culture, everyday safety, and practical living tips. We recommend making copies of important documents such as your passport and insurance details, keeping originals safely stored in your accommodation so you’re always prepared.

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Safe, vetted accommodation for interns abroad

We provide participants with pre-arranged, carefully vetted accommodation for in-person interns in each destination, selected for safety, comfort, and convenient access to your internship and local amenities. Interns typically enjoy a private bedroom with Wi-Fi, while shared common areas create opportunities to connect with other interns and international students. Most accommodations offer 24/7 security, providing additional peace of mind for both interns and their families. Airport pickup is arranged directly to your accommodation on arrival, and interns also have the option to organize their own housing independently if preferred.

TIG interns having brunch in Madrid.
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    In-person programs

    For interns joining us in person, we have friendly local teams based in all 9 destinations and available 24/7. They know their cities well and are there to help you feel safe, supported, and confident from day one. They're available in-person, through WhatsApp, and through our emergency phone line.

    When you arrive, we arrange airport pick-up and transport to your accommodation for a smooth start. During your first weekend, you’ll take part in a welcome orientation covering health and safety, local culture, workplace expectations, and practical day-to-day advice.

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    Remote programs

    For remote internships, our virtual team provides 24/7 emergency support. Even while working from home, you’re never on your own; our team is always available to help with technical issues, program questions, or anything else that comes up.

     

    Our goal is to make your remote internship feel smooth, supported, and engaging, so you can focus on gaining valuable experience and growing professionally.

Interns working from laptops in a co-working space.
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Staying connected & emergency communication

Feeling connected is a crucial aspect of feeling safe. All interns provide an emergency contact when they apply, so we know who to reach if needed. We also make sure you have the contact details for your on-site program coordinator and encourage you to keep your own information up to date.

We strongly encourage interns to stay in touch with family, friends, and universities throughout the program. For those joining us in person, we can provide guidance on how to obtain a local SIM card so you can stay easily connected with loved ones and our team. If family members are ever unable to reach you directly, they’re welcome to contact us, and we’ll help make sure everyone stays in touch.

Mental health & wellbeing

Adjusting to a new environment, culture, or routine can be challenging, even when it’s an exciting experience. To support your mental wellbeing, every intern receives three months of fully anonymous access to Talkspace. This gives you the opportunity to speak with a licensed therapist via text, offering confidential support whenever you feel you need someone to talk to.

This service is included at no extra cost and accessible worldwide.

International internship travel insurance coverage

Insurance is a key part of ensuring your health and safety while on an international internship. It is each participant’s responsibility to arrange and pay for appropriate travel insurance coverage for the duration of your program.

The Intern Group partners with Secutive. We recommend their travel insurance plan, specifically designed for international Internship programs and offers comprehensive coverage to support you throughout your experience. It is available to most participants. However, if you prefer, you can arrange travel insurance with a provider of your choice.

Important to know:

  • Insurance must be in place for the full duration of your internship.
  • You can purchase coverage directly via The Intern Group.
  • Contact details are provided for emergency assistance and general queries with the insurance provider.
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Travel information & safety monitoring

We continuously monitor safety in each destination, following guidance from trusted sources including the U.S. Department of State, UK Government, local law enforcement, NAFSA, and the World Health Organization. Our policies also include prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (PSEAH) based on international standards to protect all participants.

For up-to-date travel advice, we recommend the following resources:

  • US State Department travel warnings and tips for students

  • UK Government travel advice

  • Australian Government travel advice

  • Canadian Government travel advice.

We proactively share relevant updates with universities and partners where appropriate.

Crisis management

We follow a custom-designed crisis management protocol called First Response, developed in partnership with Control Risks. This framework ensures our teams know exactly how to act quickly, calmly, and effectively in any emergency situation. Our staff are regularly trained and retrained on these procedures, allowing us to provide consistent, reliable support and prioritize the safety and well-being of every intern at all times.

Our procedures are designed to provide reassurance not only to interns, but also to their families and institutions.

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Looking after yourself abroad

While we’re always here to support you, we also encourage interns to take an active role in their own safety. This means being aware of your surroundings, learning local customs and laws, letting others know where you’re going, avoiding unnecessary risks, and keeping personal belongings secure. Making thoughtful, informed choices helps ensure a positive and rewarding experience.

FAQs


Wherever you’re interning, from home or across the world, you’ll be supported by a team that genuinely cares about your safety, wellbeing, and experience.

Realize your potential with an international internship

Apply now