The METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) Japan Internship Program Has Started
Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has officially launched its international internship program for 2026.
This program connects highly skilled foreign talent living overseas with Japanese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including regional companies across Japan.
Application Overview and Entry for Foreign Talent (METI)
Applications opened on May 1, 2026.
The application deadline is June 30, so be sure to check the available courses and apply early.
Both online internships and in-person programs in Japan are available.
The list of participating companies will be announced after the application period closes.
Applicants must be from countries listed on the OECD/DAC list.
Last year, the program received approximately 43,000 applications, while around 100 participants were ultimately accepted. About 80 Japanese companies joined as host companies.
Although the competition is very high, some participants have successfully received job offers after completing the internship, so it is definitely worth trying.
Many participants reportedly had Japanese language skills around the JLPT N4–N3 level, so even N4-level Japanese is generally acceptable.
The host companies carefully prepare internship tasks and working environments before accepting participants, making this a well-organized and supportive program for international applicants.
By Hajime Saito
X: @hajimesaitoYJC
Source: METI Government of JAPAN, Japan Internship Program
