Japan•Asia1-3 months
Free
Typically up to 1 year
No
Not Required
Allowed
No
Not Required
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 ¥3,000 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.
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
Education
none or higher
| Application Steps | Secure a sponsoring organization in Japan to prepare a training plan; Sponsor applies for and obtain… | mofa.go.jp |
| Dependent Visa | not available | mofa.go.jp |
| Fees | Approximately ¥3,000 for single-entry (subject to nationality-based exemptions and recent 2026 fee a… | mofa.go.jp |
| Forms | — | mofa.go.jp |
| Included Nationalities | — | mofa.go.jp |
| Job Offer Required | false | mofa.go.jp |
| Official Info | https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/long/visa8.html | mofa.go.jp |
| Max Stay | Typically up to 1 year | mofa.go.jp |
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