The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces a 2.5-fold increase in Japan working holiday visa quotas

▲ Tokyo Tower in Japan. (Photo / from Tokyo Tower's official fan page)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Japan working holiday visa quotas to increase significantly. Since the launch of the Youth Working Holiday Program between Taiwan and Japan in June 2009, the program has been widely popular among Taiwanese citizens, with the number of applicants rising year by year and greatly exceeding the annual quota of 2,000. In light of this, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on the 25th that an agreement has been reached with Japan to expand the working holiday visa quota for both countries to 5,000 starting from October 27.

Japan’s working holiday visas are divided into upper and lower halves of the year, with 2,500 spots available for each period. This program allows individuals aged 18 to 30 to travel to Japan for leisure while working to help cover travel expenses, and also obtain a one-year visa. Young people interested in participating in the working holiday program in Japan can inquire with the “Interchange Association, Taipei Office,” the Japanese organization in Taiwan, to get the latest information on how to apply for the Japan working holiday visa. (http://www.koryu.or.jp/taipei-tw)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also urges young people planning to go to Japan for a working holiday to prepare well before departure. It is advisable to arrange work through intermediary agencies to understand the nature of the job and compensation, thereby reducing unnecessary disputes. Those who encounter difficulties during their working holiday in Japan can also contact the Taiwanese Representative Office in Japan or its branches for assistance.