How can foreigners participate in internships in Japan? Learn about recruitment and visa requirements.

update date 2024/03/18

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Some non-Japanese who wish to work for a Japanese company may wish to participate in a Japanese internship program. This article explains how foreigners can participate in Japanese internships, the visa requirements, and recommended internship placement services.

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What is the internship system in Japan?

An internship is a program that allows job-seeking students to listen to a company's seminar or experience a part of their work to better understand the company and help them find a job. It is recommended that foreign nationals make good use of internships to find employment at Japanese companies.

Internships in Japan

Internships in Japan include listening to seminars prepared by the company, visiting offices and factories, participating in group discussions and presentations, and actually working at the company for a short period of time.

Duration of Internship in Japan

Most internships in Japan are of short duration, lasting only a day or two, while others are of medium duration, about a week, or of long duration, taking a month or more.

Short-term internships often involve seminars and company tours, while long-term internships involve actual work experience.

Employment after internship

Participation in an internship does not necessarily guarantee a job with the company, but it can be advantageous for employment. Generally speaking, long-term internships are more likely to lead to employment. In addition, internships at foreign-affiliated companies, trading companies, IT companies, and venture companies are said to be more likely to lead to employment.

How can I participate in an internship offered in Japan?

Here we explain how to find and apply for internships in Japan, as well as the basic process of recruitment.

1. find an internship in Japan

The first step is to find a Japanese internship you would like to apply for. There are many ways to search, but the easiest way is to use a website that introduces Japanese internships. You can also register with an agency that will introduce you to Japanese internships, or use your university's internship placement office. Of course, you can also apply for an internship directly with a company.

2. prepare the necessary documents and apply

Once you have decided on the internship you wish to participate in, prepare the necessary documents and apply. The main documents required when applying for an internship in Japan are a resume and an entry sheet. The actual required documents vary from internship to internship, and some may not require any documents at all. If you are applying online, you do not need to prepare paper documents; you can fill out the application online.

3. conduct interviews and discussions

Once you have applied and passed the application screening, the next step is to actually go to the company or venue for an interview. Sometimes, in addition to the interview, you may also be asked to participate in a group discussion. In group discussions, it is important for everyone to cooperate with each other because failure to do so may result in the elimination of all group members.

Visa Requirements for Internships in Japan

In order for a foreigner to participate in an internship in Japan, he/she must obtain the appropriate visa for the internship. Please note that if you have the wrong type of visa, you may not be able to participate in the internship.

The type of visa you need depends on whether you are studying in Japan or attending a university in your own country.

If you are studying in Japan

If you are studying in Japan and already have a college student visa, you can participate in an internship that does not pay you, i.e., you will not be paid, with the same visa.

On the other hand, for an internship that pays remuneration, you do not need to change your visa, but you do need to get permission from the Immigration and Immigration Office. First, if the internship involves working only a short period of time (28 hours per week or less), you must obtain a "Comprehensive Permit to Engage in Activities Outside of Statusis required. If you work more than that, you will need to have a "Permission to engage in activities outside the scope of qualification in excess of 28 hours per weekis required.

If you are attending a university in your own country

If you are attending a university in your own country, the first thing you should do if you are looking for an internship that paysSpecified Activities (Notification No. 9)You will need to obtain a visa called If you are in Japan for less than 90 days for an internship that does not pay remuneration, you will need to obtain a "short stay" if it's 91 days or more.Cultural ActivitiesA visa is required.

Japanese Internship Placement Service for Foreigners

We recommend the following Japanese internship placement services for foreign residents.

Internship in Japan

Intership in Japan is a consulting service that introduces foreigners to internships in Japan, with over 30 years of experience and a variety of program types to meet your needs.

Reference:Internship in Japan

Sakae Japan Internship Program

Sakae Japan Internship Program is a service that matches foreign interns with Japanese companies. We also help you find a Japanese room to live in during the internship period and assist you in obtaining any necessary visas.

Reference:Sakae Japan Internship Program

glassdoor

glassdoor is a website that collects reviews by former employees of companies and others, and you can also find information on internships.

Reference:glassdoor

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summary

Internships in Japan come in a variety of formats, ranging from short-term internships where you participate in company seminars and observe the company to long-term internships that allow you to gain hands-on work experience. It is important for foreign nationals considering participating in an internship program in Japan to find the internship that is right for them and to make sure they have the appropriate visa. Whether you are an international student or a student attending a university in your home country, visa types and requirements differ, so be sure to gather information and be prepared in advance.

Internship experience in Japan can be a great advantage in your future job search. Make the most of this opportunity to gain valuable experience and expand your career possibilities.