International students in Japan looking to start their careers can access free counseling, job referrals, and internship guidance through official channels like the Nagoya Employment Service Center for Foreigners. According to the Study in Japan Internship Guide, participating in internships helps students gain practical work experience related to their field of study, but paid placements or long hours require specific immigration permissions. Understanding official registration procedures, visa rules, and public employment resources helps ensure a legal and smooth career search in 2026.
What is the difference between an internship and a part-time job in Japan?
Understanding the distinction between part-time work and an internship is essential for international students managing their schedules and legal status:
- Part-time jobs: These are paid employment opportunities where students perform tasks strictly in exchange for standard wages.
- Internships: These are practical work experiences tailored to support a student's future career path and major. Many internships in Japan are unpaid, though paid options also exist.
- Academic credit: Certain universities in Japan grant course credits for completed internships. Students should contact their institution's career office directly to verify eligibility and program options.
What work permission do you need for internships?
Immigration rules depend on whether an internship provides financial remuneration and the total hours worked per week:
- Paid internships: If you participate in an internship that pays a wage, you must obtain permission to engage in activity other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted (資格外活動許可) before starting.
- Exceeding 28 hours per week: If an internship program requires you to work more than the standard 28 hours per week, you must apply for specific permission at a regional immigration services bureau by submitting documents that clearly state the exact nature and duties of the internship.
- Official confirmation: Visa eligibility and application conditions vary by individual situation, so students should always confirm exact requirements directly with regional immigration authorities.
How does the Nagoya Employment Service Center for Foreigners assist job seekers?
The Nagoya Employment Service Center for Foreigners provides specialized career guidance, job counseling, and referral services for foreign residents in Japan.
- Location: Yamaichi Bldg. 8th floor, 2-14-25, Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi.
- Contact: Phone 052-855-3770.
- Operating hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 17:15. The facility is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and during the New Year holiday period.
- Employment insurance note: Visitors who need to process employment insurance procedures should arrive before 15:30, as processing requires additional time.
- Job postings: Updated job offers are posted on the 11th and 26th of each month. Note that translated English job listings on the center's website were scheduled to end at the end of March 2025, so reviewing listings directly at Hello Work offices or contacting staff is recommended.
What documents do you need to register and apply?
When visiting the center or submitting job applications, specific official documents are required:
- Registration documents: You must present your Residence Card. If you hold a Designated Activities visa status, you must also bring your passport so staff can inspect your Certificate of Designation. Bring your Hello Work Card if you have previously registered with Hello Work.
- Application documents: Applying for job openings through public referrals requires a Resume (履歴書), Job History (職務経歴書), and an official Referral Letter from Hello Work (ハローワーク紹介状).
What options exist for students enrolled at universities outside Japan?
Students who are currently enrolled in foreign universities abroad and wish to complete an internship in Japan under a formal contract with a Japanese company enter under specific status categories:
- Status of residence: Depending on stay duration and whether compensation is paid, foreign university students enter Japan under statuses such as Designated Activities, Cultural Activities, or Temporary Visitor.
- Government programs: The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) conducts the METI Japan Internship Program targeting foreign university students and graduates for placements at medium-sized Japanese companies. Inquiries can be made to METI's Technical and Human Resource Cooperation Office, Trade Policy Bureau (TEL: 03-3501-1937).
Finding a place to stay
When planning an internship or job search in Japan, arranging your housing well before arrival or as soon as your Certificate of Eligibility is confirmed ensures a smooth transition. Looking for accommodation situated near major transport lines in metropolitan centers makes commuting to interviews and workplace training convenient. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo, allowing newcomers to move in without the stress of purchasing furniture or setting up utility contracts. Most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing), and the monthly price includes electricity, gas, water and Wi-Fi. Booking is completed online with a passport or ID and a credit card.
FAQ
Do international students need work permission for paid internships in Japan?
Yes. If an internship involves financial remuneration, you must hold permission to engage in activity other than that permitted under your status of residence. If the work exceeds 28 hours per week, documentation explaining the internship duties must be submitted to the immigration bureau.
What documents are required to register at the Nagoya Foreign Employment Service Center?
You must present your Residence Card. Holders of a Designated Activities status must also show their passport to confirm their Certificate of Designation, and those previously registered with Hello Work should bring their Hello Work Card.
How can students at foreign universities abroad participate in Japanese internships?
Foreign university students participating in internships under contracts with Japanese organizations enter Japan using residence statuses such as Designated Activities, Cultural Activities, or Temporary Visitor, depending on remuneration and duration.
Sources
- 厚生労働省「Nagoya Employment Service Center for Foreigners」(checked 2026-10-23)
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「Internships｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-23)
This article was created by OHAYO Stay based on the sources above (edited, reorganized and translated). It is not an official publication.
Rules and dates can change. Always confirm with the official source before you apply.