WIPO Fellowship Programme 2026: Earn CHF 3,000–8,000 Monthly in Geneva, Switzerland
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) offers fellowship opportunities for professionals and graduates seeking international experience in intellectual property, law, economics, translation, research and other specialized fields.
Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the WIPO Fellowship Programme provides opportunities to gain practical experience, expand professional knowledge and build networks while contributing to an international organization focused on innovation and creativity.
Fellowship opportunities vary according to WIPO’s operational needs and the specific category of fellowship.
WIPO Fellowship Programme Overview
- Organization: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Duration: 12–36 months, depending on the fellowship and contract arrangements
- Monthly stipend: CHF 3,000–8,000
- Minimum educational requirement: At least a first-level university degree, such as a bachelor’s degree
- Fields: Intellectual property law, translation, terminology, economics, statistics, research and other specialized disciplines
Additional eligibility requirements may apply depending on the fellowship category. Some positions require a master’s degree, PhD, relevant professional experience or specific technical competencies.
Types of WIPO Fellowships
1. Translation Fellowships
The PCT Translation and Terminology Fellowship Programme provides training and practical experience for assistant terminologists, translators, post-editors, translation technologists and technical specialists.
2. Legal Case Manager Fellowships
The WIPO Domain Name Fellowship Programme is designed for young law graduates. Fellows gain experience in internet dispute resolution and trademark law, strengthening their understanding of intellectual property issues.
3. Visiting and Research Fellowships
The Research and Visiting Fellowship Programme is intended for individuals with backgrounds in economics or statistics. It offers opportunities to develop professional knowledge and research experience that can be applied in their respective fields.
4. Other Specialized Fellowships
WIPO also accommodates candidates from different educational and professional backgrounds to support a range of organizational functions and business needs.
Benefits of the WIPO Fellowship Programme
Monthly Stipend
Fellows receive a monthly stipend ranging from CHF 3,000 to CHF 8,000, depending on their academic background and relevant professional experience.
Contract Duration
Contracts may run for up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for a total period of up to three years, subject to the applicable arrangements.
Annual Leave and Holidays
Fellows receive 10 official holidays per year and accrue 2.5 days of annual leave for every full month of the fellowship.
Medical and Accident Insurance
WIPO provides medical and professional accident insurance. The organization covers 100% of the medical insurance premium for contracts shorter than 12 months, or 75% for contracts lasting 12 months or longer. The professional accident insurance premium is fully covered.
Relocation and Travel Support
WIPO covers travel expenses at the beginning and end of the fellowship. Where necessary, it also assists with visa formalities for Switzerland.
Training and Professional Development
Fellows can participate in internal training opportunities offered through the WIPO Academy. They may also receive up to six study leave days per year. WIPO covers the cost of official UN language training when required by the duties of the position.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must have at least a first-level university degree. However, meeting this minimum requirement does not automatically qualify a candidate for every fellowship.
Candidates should carefully review the eligibility criteria for the specific opportunity, particularly requirements relating to academic qualifications, work experience, language skills and technical expertise.
How to Apply for WIPO Fellowships
WIPO advertises fellowship opportunities through calls for expressions of interest and its official recruitment channels. Opportunities may also be announced through WIPO’s LinkedIn page and other social media channels.
Interested applicants should regularly check the official career portal for current vacancies, application instructions and deadlines. The general fellowship programme information does not establish that every fellowship category is currently accepting applications.
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Applicants can also follow WIPO on LinkedIn for vacancy announcements.
Final Thoughts
The WIPO Fellowship Programme offers graduates and experienced professionals an opportunity to gain international exposure, develop specialized expertise and work in Geneva. With stipends of CHF 3,000–8,000 per month and benefits that may include insurance, travel support and professional training, the programme may be relevant to candidates pursuing careers in intellectual property, law, economics, translation, research and related fields.
Review the requirements for each advertised fellowship carefully and apply through WIPO’s official recruitment channels.
Note: Fellowship availability, eligibility requirements and application deadlines depend on individual vacancy announcements.
