The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has launched the 2026 Legal Associate Program (LAP), a two-year rotational initiative based in Beijing designed to develop high-caliber in-house lawyers for international development. Candidates must possess an advanced law degree (LLM, JD, or Master’s), be admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, and have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience. The program provides intensive training on AIIB’s operational policies and legal risk management while involving associates in both public and private sector operations. Applications are evaluated on legal knowledge, communication skills, and commitment to AIIB’s mission, with a final submission deadline of February 15, 2026.
Fully Paid Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank AIIB Legal Associate Program 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) |
| Location | Beijing, China |
| Program Type | Rotational Legal Associate Program (LAP) |
| Duration | 2-Year Contract |
| Eligible Degrees | Master’s, LLM, or JD |
| Professional Req. | 2+ Years Full-Time Experience |
| Application Deadline | February 15, 2026 |
Fully Paid Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank AIIB Legal Associate Program 2026
The AIIB Legal Associate Program (LAP) is a premier career entry point for young legal professionals passionate about international development and infrastructure finance. Based in Beijing, this rotational program is designed to cultivate a pool of specialized in-house lawyers who can navigate the complexities of both private and public sector operations within a multilateral development bank environment.
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Scholarship Details
The LAP offers a unique blend of “on-the-job” and “in-classroom” training. Participants are integrated into the Legal Department (LEG), where they contribute to real-world development projects while building an extensive professional network across the bank’s various units.
Benefits of the Fully Paid Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank AIIB Legal Associate Program 2026
The program provides a comprehensive professional and financial package structured to support the growth of international legal talent.
Tier 1: Professional Employment & Rotational Placement
- 2-Year Professional Contract: High-caliber employment within the Legal Department (LEG) at the AIIB headquarters in Beijing.
- Rotational Experience: Exposure to different legal units, covering both public and private sector operations to ensure a well-rounded expertise in development law.
Tier 2: Specialized Legal & Operational Training
- Intensive Legal Schooling: Specialized training on AIIB’s unique policies, financial products, and operational frameworks to mitigate legal risks.
- HR Training Programs: Access to selected high-level training programs on broader operational themes organized by the Human Resources Department.
Tier 3: Networking & Career Development
- Global Network Access: Opportunities to build professional connections with legal and development experts from across the globe.
- Mentorship & Mentoring: Continuous feedback and guidance from senior legal counsel to ensure career progression and maturity in a multicultural setting.
Eligibility Requirements for Fully Paid Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank AIIB Legal Associates Program 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Candidates must hold an advanced law degree (Master’s, LLM, or JD) from a recognized educational institution and demonstrate strong legal drafting and analytical skills.
- Study Status: This is a professional career program; applicants must be ready for full-time employment in Beijing.
- Visa Status/Residency: Selection is conducted on the widest geographical basis possible. Applicants must be fluent in English and be admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction.
- Program Admission: Candidates must have a minimum of two years of full-time, relevant legal professional experience and show a deep commitment to AIIB’s mission.
How to Apply for the Fully Paid Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank AIIB Legal Associate Program 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Visit the AIIB Career portal and submit your application for the “Legal Associate Program 2026.”
- Automatic Evaluation: Your credentials (LLM/JD and Bar admission) will be screened to ensure they meet the minimum professional standards.
- Eligibility Assessment: Shortlisted candidates will undergo technical assessments to evaluate legal knowledge, drafting ability, and multicultural sensitivity.
- Notification of Award: Successful candidates will receive a formal offer for the two-year contract starting in Beijing.
Application Deadline: February 15, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What degree do I need for the AIIB Legal Associate Program?
You must have an advanced law degree, such as an LLM, JD, or a Master’s in Law from a recognized institution.
2. Is professional experience required?
Yes, a minimum of two years of full-time, relevant professional legal experience is mandatory.
3. Do I need to be licensed to practice law?
Yes, candidates must be admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction.
4. Where is the program located?
The program is based at the AIIB headquarters in Beijing, China.
5. What is the duration of the program?
The program starts with a two-year contract, which includes various rotations within the Legal Department.
6. Are there specific language requirements?
Fluency in English is required, as it is the working language of the bank.
7. What kind of training will I receive?
LAs receive intensive on-the-job and classroom training regarding AIIB policies, legal risk mitigation, and operational strategies.
8. Does AIIB prioritize applicants from specific countries?
AIIB aims for the widest geographical representation possible in its selection process.
9. What legal areas will I work on?
You will work on both private and public sector operations, including drafting legal documents and analyzing development-related legal issues.
10. Can I apply if I am still finishing my law degree?
Applicants must already hold their advanced law degree and have the required two years of experience by the time the program begins.
