The METI Government of Japan Internship Program 2026 is a fully funded internship opportunity for international students and graduates who want to gain practical work experience with Japanese companies. The program is organized by the Government of Japan to support global talent, promote international business, and help foreign participants understand Japanese workplace culture. Selected interns can work with host companies in Japan, improve professional skills, build networks, and explore future career opportunities connected to Japan.
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About this opportunity
The METI Government of Japan Internship Program is an international internship initiative that gives foreign students and graduates the opportunity to experience working with Japanese companies. The program is especially focused on supporting small, medium-sized, and regional enterprises in Japan that are interested in international business, overseas expansion, and global talent development.
Through this internship, participants can gain hands-on experience in a real company environment while learning about Japanese business culture, teamwork, communication, and workplace expectations. Interns may be placed in different industries depending on their background, skills, language ability, and the needs of host companies.
The program is also designed to help Japanese companies understand international markets and build connections with foreign professionals. At the same time, it gives participants a clearer idea of what it may be like to work in Japan in the future.
Selected interns are expected to attend orientation sessions, participate actively in internship activities, follow program rules, and complete the required reports or follow-up activities. The internship is a strong opportunity for students and graduates who want international work experience, cultural exposure, and professional development in Japan.
Financial Benefits
Round-trip airfare support, according to program rules
Internship placement with a Japanese host company
Daily allowance or living support during the internship period
Accommodation support during the stay in Japan
Travel insurance coverage
Support for visa-related procedures, if required
Pre-internship and post-internship orientation
Practical work experience in a Japanese company
Opportunity to learn Japanese business culture
Professional networking with Japanese companies and international participants
What's covered
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Flight/travel costs
Documents Required
Completed online application form
Valid passport or national identification document
Curriculum Vitae or resume
Academic transcript
For university or graduate students: recommendation letter from an academic advisor
For graduates: graduation certificate or proof of graduation
Language certificate, if available
Certificates of useful qualifications, if applicable
Statement of motivation or internship interest, if required
Any additional documents requested by the program office
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be foreign nationals from eligible countries or regions.
Applicants must not be currently living in Japan at the time of application.
Applicants must be current university or graduate school students, usually in their final year, or graduates of a university or graduate school.
Applicants should generally be between 18 and 39 years old as of August 24, 2026.
Applicants must have sufficient Japanese language ability, usually JLPT N3 or higher, or English proficiency.
Applicants must agree with the purpose of the program and be willing to support internationalization of Japanese companies.
Applicants must be able to attend pre-internship and post-internship orientations.
Applicants must be able to complete the internship according to the official schedule and host company requirements.
How to Apply
Visit the official METI Government of Japan Internship Program website.
Read the program overview, eligibility rules, internship schedule, and application guidelines.
Check whether your country or region is eligible.
Prepare all required documents, including academic and identity documents.
Create or access the online application form.
Complete the application with accurate personal, academic, and professional information.
Add language ability, skills, qualifications, and internship preferences.
Upload or submit required documents.
Review all information before final submission.
Submit the application before the official deadline.
Follow email updates from the program office.
If selected, attend matching, orientation, internship, and follow-up activities
