Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii)
Workers from developing countries gaining on-the-job skills transfer with a Japanese host organisation.
The Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) 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 Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) is for
Workers from developing countries gaining on-the-job skills transfer with a Japanese host organisation.
Capped at 5 years and not a PR route; many move to Specified Skilled Worker afterward.
Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) - eligibility criteria
- Recruited via an approved sending and supervising organisation
- Training plan in an approved occupation/skill
- Intent to transfer the skills to your home country
- Pass progression tests to move between stages i, ii and iii
- Employment/training contract meeting standards
Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) (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 | Up to 5 years total across the three stages |
| Work rights | Skills-training work in the designated occupation |
| Study rights | Job-linked training only |
| Government fee | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility |
| Route to PR | Capped at 5 years and not a PR route; many move to Specified Skilled Worker afterward. |
Pathway & next steps
Capped at 5 years and not a PR route; many move to Specified Skilled Worker afterward.
Many applicants also compare SSW Type 1 · Specified Skilled Worker (i), Trainee · Trainee, Skilled Labor · Skilled Labor. 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 Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) pitfalls we fix
Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) cost?
The Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) 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 Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) 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 Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii) lead to permanent residence?
Capped at 5 years and not a PR route; many move to Specified Skilled Worker afterward.
Can I work on the Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii)?
Work rights: Skills-training work in the designated occupation.
Who can apply for the Technical Intern Training (i / ii / iii)?
Workers from developing countries gaining on-the-job skills transfer with a Japanese host 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