Key Considerations When Hosting International Students from Japanese Universities as Interns
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- As part of our new graduate recruitment activities, we are planning to host interns during the summer vacation period, including international students enrolled at Japanese universities. What key compliance points should our company be aware of?
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Below is an overview of procedures for hosting international students who hold a “Student” residence status while enrolled at a Japanese university or graduate school.
The required process varies depending on whether remuneration is provided and on the duration and hours of the internship. The following two checks are particularly important.
Check 1:
Will the intern receive remuneration?If No Remuneration Is Provided
In most cases, no additional immigration application is required. However, the student must hold a valid “Student” residence card and continue to engage appropriately in their studies at the university or graduate school. Students who have withdrawn, taken a leave of absence, or are not actively studying cannot participate in internships solely on the basis of their status of residence.
If Remuneration Is Provided
Prior permission must be obtained from the Immigration Services Agency, and the type of permission required depends on the number of hours worked.
Check 2:
How many hours per week will the intern work?
Up to 28 hours per week
(or up to 8 hours per day during long academic breaks)⇒ The student must obtain “Comprehensive Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence” from the regional immigration office that has jurisdiction over their residence. This is the same permission typically required for part-time jobs. If the “Comprehensive Permission” stamp is on the back of the residence card, the student already has this approval.
Exceeding 28 hours per week outside of long breaks
⇒ The student must obtain “Special Permission to Exceed 28 Hours per Week” for the specific purpose of working as an intern at your company. This differs from the general comprehensive permission.
Because the primary purpose of the “Student” status is study, the Immigration Services Agency will review whether the internship interferes with academic obligations before granting approval. Examples include:
• Students enrolled in a university who are in their final year, with nearly all required credits (90% or more) already earned — excludes junior colleges
• Graduate students who are completing their final year of studySummary: Hosting International Students from Japanese Universities
Internships that count toward academic credits or serve as a graduation requirement may also receive special consideration. Companies should ensure compliance with both immigration and educational regulations.
For more details on hosting foreign interns, please see the page below:
Internship & Summer Job Programs for International Students in Japan
These programs enable international students to gain hands-on experience at Japanese companies, helping prevent mismatches in recruitment and supporting professional development.
International Internship Q&A for HR Managers
[2025 Edition] International Internships & Visa Application — Q&A Summary
Visa Requirements and Compliance Guidelines for Hosting International Interns
Changing Internship Host Institutions
Social Insurance Considerations for Hosting International Interns
Requirements for Hosting Interns under the Designated Activities Visa
Key Considerations When Hosting International Students from Japanese Universities
Related Service Page:
Internship & Summer Job Programs for International Students in Japan
These programs enable international students to gain valuable work experience while ensuring compliance with Japanese immigration requirements.
Since 1986, ACROSEED has specialized in immigration and visa services for foreign employees in Japan. For nearly 40 years, we have advised corporate HR teams on compliance, procedures, and workforce planning.
Consultations are available via phone, email, online, or in person. English-language support is always available.
