The Government of Japan METI Internships 2025 is a special program that invites smart and skilled people from developing countries to come and work with small companies in Japan.
These people can be students, fresh graduates, or young professionals who want to learn how businesses work in Japan.
This program helps Japan connect with other countries and gives interns a chance to grow, learn new things, and maybe even find a job in Japan in the future.
Government of Japan METI Internships 2025 Summary
| Host | Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Japan |
| Study/Work Location | Japan (on-site SMEs), or remotely (online internship from applicant’s home) |
| Category | International Internship Program |
| Eligible Countries | Developing countries on the OECD/DAC list, excluding China |
| Number of Interns | Up to 100 interns (1 per company) |
| Entry Deadline | Monday, June 30, 2025 |
| Reward | Daily stipend, round-trip airfare, insurance, training, accommodation (on-site) |
| Language Requirement | Japanese (JLPT N3+) or English proficiency required |
| Internship Type | Online and In-Person (First & Second Semester) |
| Age Requirement | 18 to 40 years old (as of August 25, 2025) |
| Intern Duration | Depends on host company schedule (Details provided after matching) |
METI Internship 2025: Key Objectives
The METI Internship program is part of Japan’s strategy to:
- Help small and medium-sized Japanese businesses globalize their operations.
- Establish cross-border networks with foreign universities and professionals.
- Develop a mutual understanding between Japan and developing nations.
- Offer global exposure to international talents who wish to work in Japan in the future.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Government of Japan METI Internship 2025, applicants must:
- Hold nationality from a developing country listed on the OECD/DAC list (excluding China).
- Be aged between 18 and 40 years as of August 25, 2025.
- Not currently reside in Japan (residing in other countries, including developed ones, is allowed).
- Be enrolled in or a graduate of a higher education institution (college, technical school, or university).
- Have basic proficiency in either Japanese (JLPT N3 or above) or English.
- Be able to submit all necessary academic documents (transcripts, certificates, recommendation letters).
- Be available for the full duration of the internship and training sessions.
- Not have previously participated in this internship between 2016 and 2024.
- Have a genuine interest in working in Japan or collaborating with Japanese companies.
- Be able to submit proof of qualifications such as TOEIC, TOEFL, IELTS, CEFR, or JLPT.
Internship Types and Support
Online Internship Support
- Internship done from applicant’s home/workspace.
- Company communicates and assigns tasks remotely.
- Support Provided:
- Provision of necessary digital tools (PC, internet, communication tools).
- Allowance: ¥1,000 per day in local currency based on activity days.
- Online training and follow-up support.
In-Person Internship in Japan (First & Second Semester)
- Internship is conducted in Japan at an SME.
- Support Provided:
- Round-trip airfare (economy class).
- Daily allowance of ¥3,000.
- Visa assistance and travel insurance.
- Accommodation and commuting support by the host company.
- Rental mobile phone and transportation to/from training facilities.
- Pre-departure training (cross-cultural understanding, Japanese business etiquette, etc.).
Intern’s Responsibilities
Selected interns are expected to:
- Prepare a detailed internship plan with the host company.
- Participate actively in required training, seminars, and final presentations.
- Maintain communication and report to the internship secretariat and the host company.
- Submit all required forms (recommendation letters, reports, etc.) on time.
- Comply with the internship timeline and Japanese business culture standards.
- Take personal responsibility, as this program is funded by the Japanese government.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit:
- Proof of nationality (passport or national ID).
- Academic transcripts and certificates (college/university).
- Recommendation letter from a university faculty or institution.
- Proof of language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, CEFR, TOEIC, JLPT).
- Any relevant work experience certificates (optional but helpful).
- Internship motivation letter.
- Certificate of enrollment or graduation, depending on current status.
How to Apply for the Government of Japan METI Internships 2025
Follow the steps below:
- Visit the official METI Internship website once applications open at https://internshipprogram.go.jp/intern/
- Review all eligibility criteria and internship types carefully.
- Prepare the required documents in advance.
- Choose your preferred internship course (online or on-site in Japan).
- Submit your application before the deadline: June 30, 2025.
- Await notification for the online screening or matching process.
- If shortlisted, proceed to the next steps based on the course chosen.
If you’re eligible and passionate about working in Japan or building a global career, this internship is your gateway to success.
FAQS
What costs or responsibilities does the host company have?
If the intern needs tools or a proper setup to work smoothly (like internet or office equipment), the company may have to cover those costs. However, for online internships, the program secretariat will provide communication tools like a computer. If the intern is coming to Japan, the company should also help arrange a place for them to stay.
Learn more here
Can interns go with me to meet business partners during the internship?
Normally, interns should stay and work at the company office or the place listed in the internship plan. If you want them to join activities outside those areas, you must first ask for approval from the program office.
Will interns be paid a salary?
No, companies do not need to pay a salary. Interns will receive a daily activity allowance from the secretariat based on the number of days they work or stay in Japan.
Is training part of the internship? Do interns have to attend it?
Yes, training is required for all interns. They must attend sessions before the internship starts, during the internship (mid-term), and after it ends to present what they learned.
See more details here.
Can companies choose which intern they want?
Yes, but with support from the program office. The secretariat reviews applications, interviews candidates, and recommends suitable interns based on your company’s needs. You can also meet the candidate beforehand through a preliminary interview. The final choice is yours.
Learn more about the process here.
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