Japan Opens Doors to Double Working Holiday Visas
Photo: RNZ
Exploring a New World: Twice the Opportunity
Young Kiwis now have double the chance to experience the wonders of Japan through its Working Holiday program. Starting this month, eligible applicants can participate in the program twice in their lifetime, a significant change from the previous single-entry limit.
Who Can Apply?
To embark on this exciting journey, applicants must meet specific criteria. They need to be aged between 18 and 30, excluding dependents or children, and fulfill certain health requirements. This program is designed to provide a unique opportunity for young people from Japan and its partner countries to embrace cultural exchange and explore new horizons.
Building Bridges: The Goals of the Program
“The programmes are designed to provide the youth with wider opportunities for them to appreciate the culture and general way of life in the partner countries/regions for the purpose of promoting mutual understanding between Japan and its partner countries/regions,” states the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The working holiday program fosters cultural exchange and understanding, allowing participants to immerse themselves in Japanese society, forge lasting friendships, and gain valuable life experiences.
Working Holidays: Know the Rules
While the program provides an avenue for working, it’s important for participants to be aware of the restrictions in place. The Japanese Foreign Ministry emphasizes that participants are “strictly prohibited from working at bars, cabarets, nightclubs, gambling establishments and other premises affecting public morals in Japan.”
Expanding Horizons: A Global Network
Japan’s Working Holiday program has continued to expand since its inception with Australia in 1980. As of December 1, 2024, the program encompasses 30 countries and regions, connecting young people across the globe. Alongside New Zealand, the new twice-in-a-lifetime opportunity also extends to applicants from Canada, Denmark, Austria, and the United Kingdom.
What are the benefits of a working holiday in Japan according to the guest?
## Double the Fun: Japan Doubles Down on Working Holiday Visas
**Host:** Welcome back to the show! Today we’re diving into exciting news for young adventurers. Japan has just announced a major change to its Working Holiday program, doubling the opportunities for Kiwis to experience the Land of the Rising Sun. Joining me to discuss this is [Guest Name], a travel expert specializing in working holidays. Welcome to the show!
**Guest:** Thank you for having me! I’m thrilled about this news. It’s a game-changer for young Kiwis looking for an immersive cultural experience.
**Host:** Absolutely. This new policy allows eligible Kiwis to participate in the program twice in their lifetime, instead of just once. Can you tell us a bit more about what this means for those interested?
**Guest:** This is huge! Previously, Kiwis could only participate in the program once, limiting their time to explore Japan and all it has to offer. Now, they have the chance to return and delve even deeper into Japanese culture, perhaps even pursue different work opportunities or explore new regions.
**Host:** What are some of the benefits of a working holiday in Japan, for those who might be unfamiliar?
**Guest:** [1](https://cotoacademy.com/how-to-travel-work-and-study-in-japan-on-a-working-holiday-visa/) explains it perfectly! A working holiday visa allows individuals to travel, work part-time, and even study in Japan. It’s a fantastic way to fund their adventures, learn new skills, and fully immerse themselves in the local culture.
**Host:** It sounds like an incredible opportunity!
**Guest:** It truly is. This new policy from Japan will allow many more young Kiwis to reap those benefits, connecting cultures and fostering lasting bonds between our two nations.
**Host:** Wonderful! Thank you for sharing your insights, [Guest Name]. We’ll be sure to keep our listeners updated on this exciting development.
