The METI Japan Government Internship Program 2026 is now open for applications from eligible candidates in developing countries. This fully funded internship offers both online and in-person opportunities, allowing participants to choose the format that best suits their availability.
The program provides a unique chance to gain hands-on experience with Japanese companies, develop professional skills, and explore potential career opportunities in Japan.
Internship Summary
- Host: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Japan
- Host Country: Japan
- Category: Internships | Training Programs
- Eligible Countries: Developing Countries (OECD/DAC list, excluding China)
- Reward: Fully Funded | Allowances | Accommodation | Airfare | Training
- Deadline: June 30, 2026
Internship Details
The METI Japan Government Internship Program is a fully funded initiative designed to provide international students and young professionals from developing countries with valuable exposure to Japanese work culture and business practices. The program is available in two formats—online and in-person—ensuring flexibility for participants who may not be able to travel. While the virtual internship allows participants to work remotely with Japanese companies, the in-person program offers a more immersive experience through direct engagement within host organizations in Japan.
Participants will gain practical knowledge of workplace responsibilities, receive mentorship from experienced professionals, and develop cross-cultural communication skills. In addition, the program has been structured to continue supporting interns even after completion by connecting them with job opportunities in Japan and offering Japanese language training. The initiative also supports Japanese small and medium-sized enterprises in expanding globally by integrating international talent into their operations. Interns are matched with host companies based on their skills and career goals after a structured screening and interview process.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the METI Japan Internship Program, applicants must:
- Be citizens of countries listed on the OECD/DAC list (excluding China)
- Be between 18 and 39 years old as of August 24, 2026
- Be currently enrolled in or have graduated from a higher education institution
- Demonstrate proficiency in Japanese (JLPT N3 or higher) or English
- Provide proof of enrollment or graduation and a recommendation letter (after screening stage)
- Possess relevant language certificates (IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL, CEFR, or JLPT), if available
- Be willing to fully participate and comply with the internship schedule
- Not have participated in the program between FY2016 and FY2025
- Show interest in working in Japan or collaborating with Japanese companies
- Meet any additional requirements specified by the host company
Internship Duration
- In-Person Internship: 6 weeks
- Online Internship: 4 weeks
Internship Benefits
Selected participants will receive the following benefits:
- General Benefits:
- Professional training and skill development
- Cross-cultural work experience
- Business Japanese language exposure
- Career guidance and performance evaluation
- Insurance coverage during the program
- Online Internship Support:
- Provision of necessary communication tools (computer, internet, etc.)
- Daily allowance of 1,000 yen (based on internship days)
- In-Person Internship Support:
- Round-trip airfare (economy class)
- Visa application support
- Travel insurance
- Accommodation throughout the program
- Daily allowance of 3,000 yen
- Transportation support within Japan
- Mobile phone for communication
- Commuting and housing arrangements by host company
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Enrollment certificate (for students)
- Graduation certificate (for graduates)
- Recommendation letter (after document screening)
- Language proficiency certificates (if available)
- Valid international passport
- Passport photographs
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Any additional relevant certificates
How to Apply
To apply for the METI Japan Government Internship Program:
- Visit the official application portal
- Register using your email address
- Complete and submit the online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Participate in the interview and matching process if shortlisted
- Await final selection and confirmation
To begin your application, click HERE
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