What is TITP?
The Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) is a system that allows foreign nationals from developing countries to work in Japan while acquiring practical skills.
The official purpose of the program is international contribution through skill transfer. However, in reality, it also plays a role in supporting Japan’s labor force.
Established in 1993, approximately 450,000 foreign workers are currently staying in Japan under this program.
TITP is divided into three stages, allowing a maximum stay of up to five years.
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Technical Intern Training (i) – Year 1 |
– Pre-entry training (approx. 1–2 months) – Basic skill acquisition – No employment relationship during training |
| Technical Intern Training (ii) – Years 2–3 |
– Practical, on-the-job training – Employment contract required – Equivalent to Skill Test Level 3 |
| Technical Intern Training (iii) – Years 4–5 |
– Advanced skill development – Only for certified excellent organizations |
Who is TITP for?
TITP is designed for people who:
- Want to gain practical skills in Japan
- Are from developing countries
- Plan to return to their home country after training
It is not a free job visa.
It is a training-based program with restrictions.
Simple Answers
What kind of jobs can you do?
Under TITP, you can only work in specific industries such as:
- Agriculture (farming, vegetables, livestock)
- Construction (building, scaffolding, machinery)
- Food manufacturing (processing, packaging)
- Factory work (metal, machinery, assembly)
- Textile and clothing
Your job options are strictly limited to approved fields.
You must work in an occupation listed under the official TITP categories.
Examples of approved sectors include:
- Agriculture & Forestry: 3 occupations, 7 tasks
- Fisheries: 2 occupations, 10 tasks
- Construction: 22 occupations, 33 tasks
- Food Manufacturing: 11 occupations, 19 tasks
- Textile & Clothing: 14 occupations, 23 tasks
- Machinery & Metal: 17 occupations, 34 tasks
- Others: 21 occupations, 39 tasks
- In-house certification types: 2 occupations, 4 tasks
What are the tests like?
- Basic practical and written exams
- Focus on job-related skills (not academic knowledge)
- Conducted mainly in Japanese (with limited support depending on the field)
You typically take exams:
- After Year 1 (to continue to the next stage)
- After Year 3 (to advance further)
| Stage | Exam |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | Basic Level Test |
| Years 2–3 | Skill Test Level 3 |
| Years 4–5 | Skill Test Level 2 |
Is my country eligible?
TITP is only available to countries that have official agreements with Japan.
Major sending countries include:
- Vietnam
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- China
- Myanmar
If your country is eligible, you must apply through:
- A licensed sending organization in your country
You cannot apply directly on your own.
If you are unsure, you should check with a sending organization or official government sources.
How the system works
There are two main types of acceptance models under TITP:
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Supervising Organization Model (Cooperative Type) |
– Managed by supervising organizations (such as cooperatives) – Mainly for small and medium-sized companies – Accounts for about 98% of cases |
| Company-Based Model |
– Direct employment by a Japanese company – Often used by companies with overseas branches |
Japanese Language Training
- Japanese language training is provided after arrival
- Includes daily life rules and labor laws
However, there is no strict official Japanese language requirement, and expectations vary depending on the industry and organization.
Protection System for Trainees
Under the TITP Act, the following protections are in place:
- Prohibition of human rights violations
- Consultation and support services
- Penalties for misconduct
- Support for transfer (in certain cases)
The Organization for Technical Intern Training (OTIT) supervises the program, and trainees can seek help during their stay:
https://www.otit.go.jp/trainee/en/
Job Change (Transfer) Restrictions
- Changing jobs is generally not allowed
- Exceptions exist (e.g., bankruptcy, harassment, abuse)
Issues and Challenges
TITP has been criticized for several issues:
- Restrictions on changing jobs
- Low wages and long working hours
- Human rights concerns
To address these issues, a new system called the Employment for Skill Development Program (ESDP) is being introduced.
Transition to Specified Skilled Worker
After completing TITP, trainees may:
- Be exempted from or receive simplified exams
- Transition to the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa
This can become a pathway to building a long-term career in Japan and potentially permanent residency.
Future Changes (System Transition)
TITP is scheduled to be replaced by the ESDP around 2027.
Rather than being abruptly abolished, it will be gradually phased out.
Final Note
TITP can be a starting point, but it is important to understand both its opportunities and limitations before applying.
By Hajime Saito
X: @hajimesaitoYJC
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