Czech Republic Joins Working Holiday Program – List of 14 Working Holiday Destinations in 2016

Text / Compiled and reported by the editorial department of MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network

Working holiday gets a new option — our country and the Czech Republic signed a memorandum on youth working holiday at the end of 2015. The Czech Republic has become the ninth in Europe and the 14th globally to sign such an agreement with us. It is expected to be implemented as early as April 2016.

The Taiwan-Czech Republic youth working holiday memorandum applies to young people aged 18 to 26 (inclusive). The maximum stay, counted from the date the visa is issued, can be up to one year, with implementation expected to begin in April 2016. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it hopes youth from both countries can apply to visit each other’s countries through working holiday under the principle of “holiday first, work second,” and experience local life, culture, and customs firsthand, as well as learn each other’s languages and cultures, through tourism, short-term study, and temporary employment. The Ministry will announce the implementation date and related application procedures separately.

Taiwan has currently signed working holiday agreements with 14 countries. The Ministry of Education’s Youth Development Administration has also issued precautions for overseas working holidays. Young people interested in going abroad for working holidays should pay extra attention.

II. During Your Stay Abroad

● Proactively contact the local embassy or consulate

After arriving in the host country, proactively register with the nearest Taiwanese embassy or consulate. This helps the overseas mission keep track of the status of working holiday youth and ensures they can provide immediate assistance in case of natural disasters, unrest, emergencies, or search requests.

● Carefully Consider Signing Employment Contracts

Before signing a work contract with an employer, make sure you fully understand the nature of the job, whether it is illegal work, whether the salary is above the local minimum wage, whether social insurance is provided, the terms for contract termination, and whether your physical ability can handle the job.

● It’s Not Easy to See a Doctor When Slightly Ill

Abroad, you usually need a fixed address to register as a patient at a nearby clinic under the national health system, but making appointments can be difficult. Some hospitals offer walk-in outpatient services where you can register on-site and wait for treatment. Senior nurses can diagnose colds, flu, and treat minor wounds. Those without insurance must pay out of pocket or buy over-the-counter medicine at pharmacies.

● Always Sign a Rental Agreement

When renting accommodation, always sign a contract with the landlord or their agent to define the rights and obligations of both parties. When renting or job hunting, try to go with a companion and avoid going alone. Also, pay attention to rental safety and choose landlords and residences carefully. Avoid living in areas with poor security.

● Obey Local Laws

Do not carry or use drugs or marijuana, and do not work for illegal organizations to avoid ending up in prison.

● Properly Safeguard Passport and Other Personal ID Documents

Life overseas is different from that in China. Young travelers may easily lose their passports due to staying in budget accommodations, frequenting workplaces or tourist attractions with mixed crowds, or often being out at night. Always keep an eye on your personal identification documents.