7. Differences Between the Technical Intern Training Program and the Engineer Program
Technical Intern Training Program (TITP)
- A program that combines working and learning, allowing workers to acquire skills and Japanese work ethics.
- Duration: 3 to 5 years, depending on the industry.
- Purpose: Gain experience, improve skills, and increase income.
- After completion, trainees can return to Vietnam or transfer to the Specified Skilled Worker (Tokutei Gino) program to continue working in Japan.
Engineer Program (KTV) / Skilled Worker
- For individuals with college degrees or higher, working in specialized fields.
- No contract duration limit, allowing contract renewal or long-term residency.
- Industries: IT, mechanical engineering, electrical & electronic engineering, construction, design, CNC machine operation, etc.
- Can sponsor spouse and children to live in Japan under a dependent visa.
- Minimum salary: 200,000 yen/month (excluding overtime).
CriteriaTechnical Intern (TITP)Engineer (KTV)
| Duration | Up to 5 years | No limit, can extend contract |
| Industry | General labor, skill training | High-level technical work |
| Company Transfer | Not allowed (except special cases) | Allowed with approval |
| Family Sponsorship | Not available | Can bring spouse & children |
| Salary | 130,000 – 160,000 yen/month (excluding overtime) | Minimum 200,000 yen/month (excluding overtime) |
| Long-term Residency | Not allowed after contract ends (except Tokutei Gino) | Can apply for permanent residency if eligible |
| Work Benefits | Limited according to trainee regulations | Full labor rights under Japanese law |
| Education Requirements | No high education required, vocational school is a plus | Must have a college/university degree in engineering, IT, etc. |
If you want long-term work, higher salary, and family sponsorship, choose the Engineer Program.
If you prefer short-term experience, skill acquisition, and no strict education requirements, choose the Technical Intern Training Program.
If you prefer short-term experience, skill acquisition, and no strict education requirements, choose the Technical Intern Training Program.