Generally, this minimum wage will be applicable in all branches of activity and all regions. However, several exceptions have been specified for a transitional period until 31 December 2016. Young people aged under 18 and apprentices are permanently exempted from minimum wage regulations. In addition, the minimum wage does not apply to people who do a compulsory internship or voluntary internship of up to three months during their education/training or studies. Neither does it apply to long-term unemployed people during the first six months of employment.