The Government of Japan METI Internship 2026 is a fully funded international internship programme organised by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). It is designed to promote global talent development while supporting Japanese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in expanding their international business reach.
The programme offers selected participants the opportunity to gain practical industry experience either online or in person in Japan, depending on the internship type and placement.
Overview of the METI Internship Programme
The METI Internship Programme connects highly skilled international students and graduates with Japanese SMEs across different sectors. The goal is to encourage international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and business innovation.
Participants are matched with host companies based on academic background, skills, and career interests. Each internship is carefully structured to ensure meaningful professional development and real-world work exposure.
The programme includes both online internships and in-person placements in Japan. In most cases, each host company accepts only one intern, making the programme highly competitive and selective.
Internship Benefits and Financial Support
The METI Internship 2026 is fully funded and provides comprehensive support to ensure participants can focus on their training and learning experience.
Common Benefits for All Interns
All selected participants receive structured training and support, including:
- Cross-cultural communication training
- Crisis management and workplace preparation sessions
- Japanese language training support
- Insurance coverage during the internship period
- Continuous supervision and guidance from host companies and programme coordinators
These support systems are designed to help interns adapt to both professional and cultural environments.
Online Internship Support
Participants in the online internship course receive:
- Daily allowance of approximately JPY 1,000 per activity day
- Access to work tools such as computers, email accounts, and communication systems
- Remote supervision and structured internship planning
- Guidance from assigned company mentors throughout the programme
This format allows participants to gain international work experience from their home country while engaging directly with Japanese companies.
In-Person Internship Support
Participants selected for the in-person internship in Japan receive full logistical and financial support, including:
- Daily allowance of approximately JPY 3,000
- Round-trip economy airfare to Japan
- Visa application support and travel insurance
- Free accommodation arranged by host companies
- Pre-departure training and orientation programmes
- Japanese language preparation courses
- Local transportation and emergency support services
Host companies also provide necessary work equipment and ensure a comfortable living and working environment.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to be considered for the METI Internship 2026.
Candidates must:
- Be a citizen of an OECD/DAC-listed country (excluding China)
- Be between 18 and 39 years of age as of August 24, 2026
- Be a final-year university student or a graduate
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or Japanese (JLPT N3 or CEFR B1 level recommended)
- Not be currently employed in Japan
- Not have previously participated in the METI Internship Programme (2016–2025 cohorts excluded)
- Show interest in international business, innovation, and SME development
Applicants must also demonstrate motivation to contribute to international cooperation and Japanese business expansion.
Internship Placement Structure
Interns are placed in Japanese SMEs across industries such as technology, manufacturing, engineering, and international trade.
Each participant works closely with a company supervisor to develop a structured internship plan outlining responsibilities, goals, and expected outcomes.
Online interns participate remotely, while in-person interns work directly within Japanese companies under full supervision.
Expectations and Responsibilities
Selected interns are expected to maintain a high level of professionalism throughout the programme.
Responsibilities include:
- Developing and following an agreed internship plan
- Submitting daily progress reports through the official system
- Attending all required training sessions and presentations
- Communicating regularly with supervisors and programme coordinators
- Ensuring personal safety and compliance with programme rules
- Completing post-internship surveys and feedback reports
These requirements ensure that participants gain maximum learning value from the programme.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their application through the official METI internship portal. After submission, candidates go through a matching process where host companies review profiles and select suitable interns.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for additional screening depending on the host organisation’s requirements. Final placement is determined by METI and programme coordinators.
Application Deadline
June 30, 2026
All applications must be completed and submitted before the closing date through the official portal.
APPLY HERE
Government of Japan METI Internship Application Portal
The Government of Japan METI Internship 2026 is a valuable opportunity for students and graduates seeking international work experience. With full financial support, structured training, and direct exposure to Japanese SMEs, the programme offers a strong foundation for building global careers in business, innovation, and technology.