The METI Japan Internship Program 2026-27 is a fully funded international internship by Japan’s government, offering foreign professionals a chance to gain real work experience in Japanese companies.
This program provides monthly stipend, free travel, accommodation, visa support, and professional training, making it one of the best international internships in Japan for 2026.
If you want to work in Japan, gain global exposure, and boost your career, here’s everything you need to know.
What is METI Japan Internship Program?
The METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) Internship Program aims to:
- Promote international talent exchange
- Support Japanese SMEs in global expansion
- Build professional networks worldwide
Interns are placed in Japanese small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for hands-on experience.
Program Overview 2026-27
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Program Name | METI Japan Internship Program |
| Country | Japan |
| Funded By | Government of Japan |
| Deadline | June 30, 2026 |
| Internship Type | Online & In-Person |
| Duration | 20–30 Days |
| Age Limit | 18 – 39 Years |
| Eligibility | OECD/DAC listed countries |
| Language | English or Japanese (JLPT N3 / B1) |
Internship Duration & Schedule
Online Internship
- August 24 – September 18, 2026
- 80 hours (2–8 hours/day)
In-Person Internship (Japan)
First Term
- Arrival: October 7, 2026
- Departure: November 26, 2026
Second Term
- Arrival: November 4, 2026
- Departure: December 18, 2026
Key Benefits (Fully Funded)
For All Interns
- ✔️ Professional training (cross-cultural, business, language)
- ✔️ Internship insurance coverage
Online Internship Benefits
- Allowance: JPY 1,000/day
- Free laptop, Wi-Fi & tools
In-Person Internship Benefits
- Round-trip airfare to Japan
- Free accommodation
- Stipend: JPY 3,000/day
- Mobile phone for communication
- Visa support & insurance
- Transport & commuting expenses covered
Eligibility Criteria (Who Can Apply?)
To apply for METI Japan Internship 2026, you must:
- Be a citizen of an OECD/DAC listed country
- Age between 18–39 years
- Not currently living in Japan
- Have English or Japanese proficiency (JLPT N3 / B1)
- Be a final-year student or graduate
- Provide recommendation letter & documents
- Not previously participated (2016–2025)
Preferred Candidate Profile
Ideal applicants include:
- Engineers
- Researchers
- Business professionals
- Sales/marketing experts
- Legal & accounting professionals
How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official METI Internship portal
- Review eligibility criteria
- Submit:
- Academic documents
- Language certificates
- Recommendation letter
- Complete online application
- Wait for screening & interviews
Selection Process
Step 1: Document Screening
Initial shortlisting based on qualifications.
Step 2: First Interview
Conducted in English or Japanese.
Step 3: Company Matching
Candidates matched with Japanese companies.
Step 4: Final Interview
Interview with host company.
Step 5: Final Selection
Offer letter issued after approval.
Internship Responsibilities
Selected interns must:
- Submit daily reports
- Participate in all training sessions
- Attend final presentation
- Follow internship plan with company
- Complete all tasks professionally
Important Terms & Conditions
- Internship is not a job offer
- Cannot withdraw after selection
- Must complete full internship duration
- Selection is highly competitive
Why You Should Apply?
The METI Internship offers:
- International work experience
- 🇯🇵 Exposure to Japanese work culture
- Career growth opportunities
- Global networking
- Fully funded benefits
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
- Results:
- Online: End of July
- First Term: Mid-August
- Second Term: Early September
FAQs – METI Japan Internship Program
Is METI internship fully funded?
Yes, it covers stipend, travel, accommodation, and visa support.
Do I need Japanese language skills?
Not mandatory. English (B1) is acceptable, but Japanese is a plus.
Can I apply without experience?
Yes, fresh graduates can apply.
Is IELTS required?
Not compulsory, but proof of English proficiency is needed.
Apply Now – Start Your Career in Japan 🇯🇵
The METI Japan Internship Program 2026-27 is your chance to:
- Travel to Japan
- Work with Japanese companies
- Gain international experience
- Earn stipend
Apply before June 30, 2026 and secure your future