Applying For An Internship In Japan

Japan is one of the most developed countries in the world in terms of industry and service sectors. Internship opportunities in these industries are available to international students at the undergraduate, graduate and doctorate levels.

An internship in Japan can be an enriching experience, as it provides immersive learning opportunities for interns. As the birthplace of many quality initiatives and principles, Japanese industry is widely considered to be the most efficient, and first-hand experience of this industry has multiple benefits for your career.

While doing an internship in Japan is a worthwhile experience, applying for one is of course not as easy as applying for one in your own country. The application process can take several months, so one should start seeking and applying for an internship position as early as possible.

Numerous organizations arrange internships for international students in Japan. You have the option of applying through these organizations, or contacting the company you wish to intern with directly. Going through a professional organization has its benefits, as they would take care of the entire application process on your behalf.

All international internship applications will require you to fill in an application form either online or in traditional paper format. You will also most likely be required to submit a passport-sized photograph, resume, a letter of motivation, and possibly also a copy of your passport. Some companies and organizations (though not all) may also require submission of a processing fee with your application.

Internships are available in various locations around Japan. Internship offers usually come around 8-12 weeks before contracts start, so you will need to be patient. Certain organizations might require you to take part in an interview prior to offering you an internship position. This interview is generally conducted online via video conferencing or on the telephone.

Depending on the outcome of your application, you may be required to pay a security deposit to hold your place. This deposit is usually required by professional bodies and consortiums; though companies or firms do not ask for such deposits.

The majority of internships around the country are unpaid, but come with subsidized food and accommodation. On the other hand, paid internships do not include these additional benefits. All of these details will most certainly be made clear on the company's website.

After you receive confirmation of a position, you will be required to apply for your visa. If you are a national of a country that has Reciprocal Visa Exemption Arrangements with Japan, and your internship duration is short (generally less than 90 days), you may be able to fly to Japan without a visa. In this case, your company or organization would issue an "Introduction Card to Japan" in your name, which will act as your visa.

If however, your internship duration is more than 90 days, you will be required to apply for a Working Holiday Visa. This visa generally takes about 3 weeks to obtain, the application for which has to be submitted at the Japanese Embassy in your country.

Once you have received your Visa, you will need to purchase your flight and travel insurance for the entire duration of your internship, then you will be ready to go. You will be sent detailed information to prepare you for your internship, so it will be important to read it carefully to ensure you are prepared when you arrive in Japan.