METI Japan Internship Program 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded

The METI Japan Internship Program 2026 is a fully funded government internship in Japan for international students from developing countries. It offers both online and in-person formats, allowing participants to gain valuable experience working with Japanese small and medium-sized enterprises. The program aims to support interns with training, language lessons, and potential job opportunities in Japan.

The program is hosted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan, in collaboration with the Japan Internship Program (JIP) Office. It connects highly skilled foreign professionals with Japanese companies to foster internationalization and business expansion. The internship includes comprehensive support such as airfare, accommodation, daily allowances, and insurance, ensuring a rewarding experience for all participants.

METI Japan Internship Program Benefits

The internship program has helpful training for interns. They can learn how to work with people from different cultures, solve problems, and speak business Japanese. Interns also get tips for their careers and have their progress checked during the internship. The program also gives insurance. This protects them if anything goes wrong and supports them while they work.

• Online Internship Support:
  • Tools for communication like a computer, internet, and other essentials
  • Daily allowance of 1,000 yen in local currency (based on the number of internship days)
• In-person Internship Support:
• Transportation support between the airport, training venues, and workplace
• Accommodation provided during training and internship period
• Daily allowance of JPY 3,000 per day (paid in installments)
• Mobile phone provided for communication during the internship
• Round-trip airfare (economy class)
• Visa support for travel to Japan
• Travel insurance for the journey to Japan
• Accommodation and commuting support arranged by the host company

METI Japan Internship Program Eligibility Criteria

• You must be a foreign professional from a country listed on the OECD/DAC list (check the official list!).
• If you’re from the People’s Republic of China, you can’t apply.
• You should be able to speak Japanese (JLPT N3 or higher) or English.
• You must be between 18 and 39 years old by August 24, 2026.
• You should be studying at a higher education institute (like a university or college) or have already graduated.
• You need to provide proof of your studies (like an enrollment letter or graduation certificate) and a recommendation letter (required after passing the document screening).
• If you have language certificates (like IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL, CEFR, or JLPT), that’s a plus.
• You should be ready to fully commit to the program and follow the internship schedule.
• You shouldn’t have participated in this program from FY2016 to FY2025.
• You should want to work in Japan or have an interest in working with Japanese companies.
• You must meet any other conditions required by the host company.

Documents Required

• Enrolment certificate from the university (for students).
• Graduation certificate from the university (for graduates).
• Letter of recommendation from university faculty or affiliated institution (required after passing document screening).
• IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL, CEFR, JLPT, or any other relevant certificate (only if available).
• Valid passport.
• Photographs.
• Updated resume (CV).
• Any relevant certificates.

How to Apply for METI Japan Internship Program

• Apply online on the program website by entering your email address to register.
• Complete the full application form via the link sent to your email.
• The JIP Office will review your application and arrange a first interview (in Japanese or English).
• Submit required documents such as certificate of enrollment, language test scores, and recommendation letter after passing document screening.
• Selected applicants have a second interview with the companies, which then make the final decision on intern candidates.
• Matching results are communicated to both companies and applicants; the match is finalized upon mutual agreement.
• After final confirmation by the Office, an acceptance notice is sent to both the intern and the host company.
• Participants are required to submit a pledge before starting the internship.
• A contract specifying rules and obligations regarding acceptance will be concluded between the JIP Office, the company, and the intern.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the METI Japan Internship Program. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.