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研修 — Trainee (研修)
JapanJapan•Asia
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研修 — Trainee (研修)

Working Holiday

At a Glance

Processing Time

1-3 months

Estimated Cost

Not confirmed

Check the official source
Stay Duration

Typically up to 1 year

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

No dependents

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information
Japan flag

Living in Japan

Cost of Living
32% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary¥3,240,000
Quality of Life
181/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Non-renewable, one-year residence status for foreign nationals sent by an overseas organization to attend structured, non-remunerative training at a Japanese partner institution.

The Trainee (研修) visa is a Japanese residence status for foreign nationals enrolled in structured training programs to acquire technology or skills unavailable in their home country. It is not an employment visa — activities are strictly limited to non-remunerative training at a sponsoring Japanese organization.

Stay is capped at 1 year and the status is not renewable. The government visa fee is approximately ¥15,000 for a single entry, subject to nationality-based exemptions. Dependents cannot accompany trainee holders, and there is no permanent residence pathway.

This visa is ideal for corporate employees or government officials sent by their overseas organization to attend a formal, structured training program at a Japanese partner company or institution.

Japan

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Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must be at least 18 years old

Valid passport

Sponsorship by a Japanese organization with an approved training plan

Proof that skills cannot be acquired in the applicant's home country

Commitment to utilize acquired skills in home country after training

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Opportunity to gain specialized professional skills in a Japanese environment
  • Facilitates international cooperation and human resource development

Worth Knowing

  • Not a standard work visa; activities are strictly limited to training and cannot involve standard employment
  • Requires a formal training plan and sponsorship by a Japanese entity
  • Strict prohibition against on-the-job training in many contexts

Application Process

1

Secure a sponsoring organization in Japan to prepare a training plan

2

Sponsor applies for and obtains a Certificate of qualification (COE) in Japan

3

Submit visa application with COE to the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate

4

Receive visa and enter Japan to obtain Residence Card at port of entry

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