Trainee
People receiving non-employment skills training (often corporate or public-sector) at a Japanese organisation.
The Trainee is a Japanese work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free) and processing time (~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Trainee is for
People receiving non-employment skills training (often corporate or public-sector) at a Japanese organisation.
Not a PR route; a short, non-employment training status.
Trainee - eligibility criteria
- Accepted for a structured training programme by a Japanese host
- Training is distinct from ordinary employment
- Funds/allowance to support the stay
- Clear training curriculum and supervisor
Trainee cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Trainee (Japan) is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed in Japan; visa issued at a consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | 1 year, 6 months or 3 months |
| Work rights | Training activities only (not employment) |
| Study rights | Practical training at the host |
| Government fee | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility |
| Route to PR | Not a PR route; a short, non-employment training status. |
Pathway & next steps
Not a PR route; a short, non-employment training status.
Many applicants also compare Technical Intern · Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii), Student · Student. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Japanese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Trainee pitfalls we fix
Trainee - frequently asked questions
How much does the Trainee cost?
The Trainee government fee is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying.
How long does the Trainee take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Trainee lead to permanent residence?
Not a PR route; a short, non-employment training status.
Can I work on the Trainee?
Work rights: Training activities only (not employment).
Who can apply for the Trainee?
People receiving non-employment skills training (often corporate or public-sector) at a Japanese organisation.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Japan government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan - official Japan immigration authority