METI Japan Internship Program 2026 | METI Internship | Fully Funded

The METI Japan Government Internship Program 2026 is a fully funded internship for international students and professionals from developing countries, excluding China. It offers both online (4 weeks) and in-person (6 weeks) opportunities with Japanese companies. The program aims to provide valuable work experience, Japanese language training, and connect interns with potential job opportunities in Japan, supporting Japanese small and medium-sized businesses in their international expansion.

This is a fully funded internship. * Online Internship Support: Includes tools for communication (computer, internet, other essentials) and a daily allowance of 1,000 JPY in local currency (based on internship days). * In-person Internship Support: Includes round-trip economy class airfare to Japan, travel insurance for the visit and internship, visa support (costs covered by the JIP Office), a mobile phone for communication, accommodation during training and internship, and transportation support between the airport, training venues, and workplace. A daily allowance of 3,000 JPY per day is provided (paid in installments). * Additional Benefits: Interns receive helpful training in cross-cultural communication, problem-solving, and business Japanese. Career tips and progress checks are also part of the program.

To be eligible, applicants must: * Be a foreign professional from a developing country listed on the OECD/DAC list (excluding the People's Republic of China). Ethiopia is eligible. * Be between 18 and 39 years old by August 24, 2026. * Be currently studying at a higher education institution (university or college) or have already graduated with a degree (or equivalent qualification) from a university or graduate school in Japan or overseas. * Possess proficiency in either Japanese (JLPT N3 or higher) or English. * Be ready to fully commit to the program and adhere to the internship schedule. * Not have participated in this specific program between FY2016 and FY2025. * Have a desire to work in Japan or an interest in working with Japanese companies. * Meet any additional conditions required by the host company.

Applicants will need to provide the following documents: * Enrollment certificate from the university (for current students) or graduation certificate (for graduates). * A letter of recommendation from university faculty or an affiliated institution (required after passing the initial document screening). * Language certificates (e.g., IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL, CEFR, JLPT), if available. * A valid passport. * Photographs. * An updated resume (CV). * Any other relevant certificates.

1. Online Application: Apply through the program's official website. First, register your email address to receive a link to the full application form. 2. Form Submission: Open the provided link, complete all required details in the application form, and submit it. 3. Selection Process: The JIP Office will review applications and conduct a first interview (in Japanese or English). You will be asked to provide documents such as your enrollment certificate, language test scores, and a recommendation letter. The office will then attempt to match you with a host company based on your experience and goals. A second interview with the host company may occur, but is not always required. Both the applicant and the company must agree on the match. 4. Contract: If accepted, you will receive notification and then sign a contract with the JIP Office and the host company. Once matched, you cannot change your mind or withdraw from the program.

This program offers work experience opportunities for a specific duration and does not constitute employment.