There are various kinds of status of residence for those who intend to stay in Japan for the purpose of working. Besides this, there is a training and internship system in which Japanese companies accept foreigners to provide them with special training, etc. However, trouble sometimes seems to occur at these accepting companies and organizations. Also, since there are differences between training programs and internships, it is important to have a clear understanding of the system.
Differences between training and internship
'Training' is to learn and gain working skills and knowledge. It is not work.
'Internship' is a system whereby people recognized as having already attained a certain level of skill after finishing a training program continue to learn more skills and knowledge as workers in a company or organization.
Status of residence and period of stay
A Trainee's status of residence is 'Trainee' and the maximum period of stay is 1 year in principle. The status of residence of a person who has finished a training program and becomes an Intern will be 'Designated Activities' and its period of stay is within 3 years including the training term.
Application of the Labor Standards Law
A Trainee is not regarded as a worker, therefore the Labor Standards Law does not apply to such a person. It is applicable to an Intern.
Pay
A 'Trainee Allowance' for such things as accommodation and food expenses, etc. is paid to a Trainee. A wage or salary which is equivalent to or more than that of a Japanese employee is paid to an Intern.
Training and Intern hours
There should be no training outside training hours or on holidays
Interns may work outside working hours and on holidays.
Insurance
Workmen's Accident Compensation Insurance and Employment Insurance are not applicable to a Trainee, therefore the use of private comprehensive insurance is obligatory.
Workmen's Accident Compensation Insurance, Employment Insurance and Public Health Insurance are applicable to an Intern.
Examples of frequent trouble during training and internships
* One's passport, bankbook, seal, etc. are kept by the accepting organization
* Although one is a 'Trainee', they are forced to work the same as paid workers
* Although one is an 'Inter', the accepting organization does not give a clear explanation of paid holidays or paid leave.
* 'Trainees' and 'Interns' sometimes are not permitted to go outside (their place of work or accommodation)
For further information on Training and Internship
Contact:
Advocacy Network for Foreign Trainees
c/o Zentoitsu Rodo-kumiai
Shinhirokoji Building 5F,
1-1-12, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-3836-9061 Fax: 03-3836-9077