A thorough explanation of what it takes to work in Japan on a working holiday visa!
Many foreigners may wish to take advantage of the working holiday program to work and sightsee in Japan. The ability to gain new experiences in Japan while experiencing Japanese culture makes working holidays an attractive option for many young people.
However, only nationals of countries that have concluded agreements with Japan can work in Japan with a working holiday visa. In addition, there are various conditions and complicated procedures to obtain a visa.
In this issue, we will introduce in detail how to apply for a working holiday visa and what to expect when working. If you are a foreigner who would like to experience Japanese culture and lifestyle while working in Japan, please take a look at this article.
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Requirements for working in Japan with a working holiday
In order to work in Japan under the Working Holiday Program, you must meet several conditions.
First, let's take a closer look at the countries where the working holiday program is available and the requirements for obtaining a visa.
Countries with Working Holiday Agreements
As of June 3, 2024, the following 30 countries and regions have working holiday programs with Japan.
Australia Norway
New Zealand Portugal
Canada Poland
Korea Slovakia
France Austria
Germany Hungary
United Kingdom Spain
Ireland Argentina
Denmark Chile
Taiwan Iceland
Hong Kong Czech Republic
Lithuania Uruguay
Sweden Finland
Estonia Latvia
Netherlands Luxembourg
Residents of these countries between the ages of 18 and 30 can work in Japan under the Working Holiday Program.
In principle, the working holiday system can be used only once, and the maximum period of stay is one year.
Reference:Working Holiday Program｜Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Requirements for obtaining a working holiday visa
To obtain a working holiday visa, you must meet the following main requirements
However, conditions may differ slightly from country to country, so be sure to check the latest information at the nearest Japanese embassy before applying.
- Is a national or resident of the counterpart country/region
- Be between 18 and 30 years of age at the time of visa application (18-25 or 26 years of age depending on the country)
- Are single (except in some countries)
- Not accompanied by children or dependents
- Never been issued a working holiday visa in the past
- Sufficient funds for the stay (the amount required in each country varies)
- Be in good mental and physical health
- Have a valid passport and a return ticket from Japan or funds to purchase one
If you meet the above requirements, you can apply for a working holiday visa.
To learn more about the Working Holiday Program, please refer to the following articles.
▶︎ What is Japan's Working Holiday Program? Detailed explanation of visa, housing, how to find a job, etc!
How to apply for a working holiday visa
This section describes the specific application procedures for a working holiday visa. Be sure to keep in mind the timing of the application, required documents, and other points to ensure a smooth visa application.
Visa procedures are carried out at Japanese embassies (consulates) located overseas.
Application for a working holiday visa must be made at the Japanese embassy (consulate) in each country outside Japan.
Please note that we do not accept applications in Japan, applications by proxy, or online applications. Please make sure to complete the application procedure in person.
Since application procedures, required documents, and examination periods may vary by country or region, we recommend that you check the latest information on each embassy's (consulate's) website or contact them directly in advance.
The time it takes from visa application to issuance also varies depending on the status of the application, so be sure to prepare well in advance.
necessary documents
The documents required to apply for a working holiday visa include the following
However, this is only a general list and the documents to be submitted may differ from country to country. Please be sure to check with your embassy (or consulate) in advance and prepare the designated documents without overextension or insufficiency.
- Visa application form (attach a 45mm x 45mm photograph taken within 6 months prior to the date of application)
- Valid passport (with at least 3 months of remaining validity for the period of intended stay + 3 months)
- Curriculum vitae (including educational background, employment history, language skills, and plans for your stay in Japan)
- Copies of various certificates (degree certificate, certificate of language proficiency, certificate of working holiday insurance, etc.)
- Schedule or timetable for your stay in Japan
- A statement of reasons describing your motivation and purpose for participating in a working holiday and your plans in Japan
- Airline ticket out of Japan or proof of funds for purchase
- Documents proving the cost of stay (certificate of bank balance, certificate of scholarship receipt, etc.)
- health certificate
- certificate of non-criminality
If you have materials that can be used to promote yourself, such as a certificate of passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test or a diploma related to Japanese culture such as tea ceremony or flower arrangement, it may be advantageous to submit them when applying for a visa.
If translation or notarization of documents is required, it is important to prepare them well in advance of the application.
Points to keep in mind when working in Japan on a working holiday visa
When working in Japan on a working holiday visa, there are a few things to keep in mind.
To avoid problems, please check the following information carefully.
working conditions
If you work in Japan on a working holiday visa, the Japanese Labor Standards Act applies to your work. Working hours, wages, holidays, and other working conditions are the same as those for Japanese workers.
However, they are not allowed to work in the entertainment industry or in jobs that require an entertainment visa. Nor are they allowed to work in jobs that require specialized skills or qualifications.
You are only required to engage in simple labor that is consistent with the purpose of a working holiday. It is important to discuss working conditions for working in Japan with your employer well in advance.
income tax rate
Income earned from working in Japan is subject to income tax. Since the period of stay in Japan on a working holiday visa is usually one year or less, you are classified as a non-resident under Japanese tax law. Non-residents are taxed at a flat rate of 20.42% regardless of the amount of income (inhabitant tax is not imposed).
Note that this tax rate is subject to change each year, so it is recommended that you check for the latest information. If your income exceeds a certain amount, you are required to file an income tax return. You can get detailed information about tax return procedures at the tax office or city hall.
In addition, when working in Japan, it is necessary to enroll in social insurance. Please also check the following articles that explain in detail about health insurance and pension insurance.
Use only once, non-renewable.
As a rule, the Working Holiday Program can only be used once.
Working holiday visas are valid for a maximum of one year and cannot be renewed. If you wish to extend the period, you must return to your country and re-apply for a visa.
Please note that if you have been issued a working holiday visa in the past, you cannot reapply from the same country.
Please also check out the following article that outlines some of the key points to consider when looking for a job in Japan.
▶︎【 Preserved 】 Complete Guide to Finding a Job in Japan for Foreigners! Job Hunting, Changing Jobs, Part-Time Work
Can I continue to work in Japan after my working holiday?
Some people may wish to continue working in Japan after their working holiday period ends. In that case, you will need to switch to a work visa.
However, there are several conditions that must be met in order to transfer from a working holiday visa to a work visa. Here are some important points regarding the transition to a working visa.
Conditions for switching to a work visa
In order to continue working in Japan after a working holiday, you must obtain a work visa. A work visa is a visa for the purpose of working in Japan, and there are certain conditions for application.
First, jobs eligible for a work visa are limited to those requiring specialized knowledge and skills. Specifically, "humanities/international services," "technology, humanities/international services," and "technical skills" are applicable to such statuses of residence. In principle, work visas for simple labor jobs are not issued.
In order to obtain a work visa, it is a prerequisite that you are employed by a Japanese employer. The visa application is to be made through your employer or other company.
Temporary return to home country required depending on country of origin
When switching from a working holiday to a work visa, depending on your country of origin, you may need to return to your home country once. Only five countries/regions among the Working Holiday Partner countries (South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Germany) allow you to switch to a work visa during your stay in Japan. For other countries, you will need to return to your home country and apply for a work visa at the Japanese embassy (consulate) in your home country.
Be sure to understand the situation in your own country and make preparations well in advance. If you have any questions, contact the Immigration Bureau or the Japanese embassy in your country.
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summary
In this issue, we have introduced some important information you should know about working in Japan on a working holiday visa.
The Working Holiday Program is a valuable opportunity to combine work and sightseeing in Japan, but various procedures are required.
It is especially important to prepare systematically, as visa applications can be time-consuming. Also, while working in Japan, you are expected to observe Japanese laws and social rules. Make sure you understand the risks involved to avoid getting into trouble.
A working holiday is a wonderful program that allows you to work and interact with people from different cultures. Your experience in Japan will surely enrich your life.
We hope you will find the information in this article useful as you face new challenges.
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