Working
Can I do a paid internship in Japan?
Yes, if the internship is authorized by your status or by a specific internship/Designated Activities or outside-activity permission route.
VerifiedPrimary topic verifiedLast checked: 18 Aug 2026
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- A paid internship is work for immigration purposes.
- Students may use outside-activity permission for ordinary part-time internships within limits.
- Structured full-time internships can require a dedicated status or individual permission.
Documents
- Government-issued ID or provider-required identity documents
Likely cost
No separate government fee merely for having this employment arrangement. If immigration permission/status change is required, the applicable ISA procedure fee applies; tax/social-insurance contributions are separate.
Where to act
Employer/contracting client plus the Regional Immigration Services Bureau if immigration authorization or notification is required.
Official sources
Immigration Services Agency — Status of Residence / ProceduresImmigration Services Agency / Ministry of Justice · Official sourceMHLW — For Foreign Workers in Japan / Labour StandardsMinistry of Health, Labour and Welfare · Official sourceExisting verified sourceImmigration Services Agency / Ministry of Justice · Official source