Are you dreaming of an extended stay in Japan, with the opportunity to work and immerse yourself in the local culture? The Working Holiday Visa may just be your ticket to an unforgettable adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun.
What is a Working Holiday Visa?
The Working Holiday Visa is a unique visa program designed for young adults who want to experience living abroad without the usual constraints of a tourist visa. It allows holders to work part-time jobs to finance their travels and gain international work experience.
Japan offers a unique opportunity for young travelers to explore its rich culture and stunning landscapes while working temporary jobs to support their stay – the Working Holiday Visa. Catered to young adults who want to experience living in Japan without the usual constraints of a tourist visa.
Are you probably wondering if you should get a working holiday visa in Japan? here’s a full Guide on everything you need to know about the application process, How much money you need for a working holiday in Japan, job opportunities, accommodations, tips, and more!
How to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa in Japan
Before planning your adventure, the first step is securing a Working Holiday Visa. Here are the basic steps:
- Eligibility Check: Ensure you’re from a country that has a reciprocal agreement with Japan for the Working Holiday program. See if your country is one of the lucky ones here.
- Required Documentation: Gather the necessary documents, which typically include a valid passport, a completed application form, a resume/CV, a proposed itinerary for your stay, and proof of sufficient funds.
- Submission: Apply directly at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country. The processing time may vary, so plan accordingly.
- Insurance: Acquire travel insurance that covers the entirety of your stay.
Eligibility Criteria for Japan’s Working Holiday Visa
To apply for the Working Holiday Visa in Japan, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age Limit: Typically, applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old, though this can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality.
- Nationality: Currently, Japan has agreements with several countries, 29 as of 1st August 2023, including the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Germany, France, Denmark, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Korea. See if your country is one of them in this official website.
- Health: Applicants must be in good health and may need to provide a medical certificate.
- Financial Requirements: Proof of sufficient funds to support the initial stage of the stay is required, this may vary by country, but it is often around 200,000 yen.
- Intention to Holiday: The primary purpose of your stay should be for travel and culture exchange, with work being a secondary intention.
Application Process
The application process for a Working Holiday Visa in Japan usually involves the following steps:
- Gather Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- Completed application form
- Recent passport-style photo
- A written reason for applying, outlining your planned activities in Japan
- Supporting documents such as a bank statement
- Visit the Nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate:
Bring all your documents and submit your application in person. (* for most countries, the applicant must be currently residing in his or her country of nationality) - Pay the Visa Fee:
Fees may vary based on nationality. - Wait for Approval:
Processing times vary ( 5 – 10 Working days), but you may be asked to attend an interview. - Collect Your Visa:
Once approved, you’ll be able to start planning your journey.
* you’ll have around a year time to actually leave for Japan after your visa is approved. Don’t worry, the time for your visa (12 months) will still be the same.
What Can You Do With a Working Holiday Visa in Japan?
- Work Part-Time: You can engage in work to fund your travels, as long as it does not conflict with the cultural exchange intent of the visa.
- Study: Enroll in short-term courses to learn about Japanese culture, language, or other local crafts.
- Travel: Explore Japan’s rich list of modern cities, historic temples, and stunning natural landscapes.
Limitations and Conditions
Some of the restrictions of a Working Holiday in Japan are as follows:
- Duration: The visa is generally valid for 6 to 12 months, depending on your nationality. Check here for your specific Country.
- Type of Work: Some types of work, such as those in adult entertainment industries like bars, cabarets, nightclubs, gambling establishments and other premises affecting public morals in Japan, are strictly prohibited.
- Renewal: The visa is not renewable; once it expires, you must leave Japan.
Where to Live in Japan
Once your visa is approved, consider where to live. Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka offer numerous amenities and job opportunities, but the cost of living is higher.
Alternatively, cities like Fukuoka or Sapporo provide a balance of urban life and affordability.
Accommodation
When embarking on a working holiday in Japan, finding the right type of accommodation is crucial for balancing comfort, budget, and convenience.
Guesthouses, share-houses, and apartments are popular housing options. Websites like GaijinPot and Japan Room Finder can assist with accommodation.
- Guesthouses: Usually the most preferred accommodation option. More cost-effective than staying at a hotel and it comes easier to socialize with others. This is the perfect option for individuals with a short stay who are looking to explore. Some hostels allow guests to stay for free in return for doing cleaning tasks or other work at the hostel.
- share-houses you can make friends from all over the world even Japanese natives and practice your Japanese in casual, daily life situations with your housemates. Living in this setting allows for a deeper understanding of Japanese customs and way of life.
- apartments or Airbnb’s are an option to consider as well.
* After arrival and choosing your place, you must visit the municipal office in your area and notify the Ministry of Justice where you live within 14 days of finding a place to settle down (* Beware that a Hotel or Airbnb are not addresses that you can use for this*)
How to Find a Job
Finding work can be an exciting endeavor in Japan. English teaching is a popular option, as are service industry jobs such as working in a café or bar, especially in tourist locations where language skills are in demand. Job boards like Daijob and Jobs in Japan are useful resources, as is networking upon arrival.
LinkedIn may also a great way to get a job in Japan. You could seek for jobs before your arrival.
* There is no limit on how many hours or days per week or how many months you can work on a Working Holiday Visa in Japan.
Best Season to Go
Choosing when to embark on your Working Holiday depends on your preferences. Spring offers the famous cherry blossoms, while autumn presents a vivid fall colors. Summer is festival season, although it can be hot and humid. Winter boasts incredible skiing and snowboarding opportunities. ( *You should also know that the rainy season is from early June to mid-July).
Consider your interests, whether they align with cultural events or seasonal activities, when deciding the best time for your journey.
In summary, a Working Holiday Visa opens the door to a memorable sojourn in Japan. Plan carefully, be open to new experiences, and immerse yourself in the Japanese way of life. Safe travels!
Cultural Exchange and Personal Growth
A working holiday in Japan can be an experience of a lifetime, offering a blend of cultural exchange and personal growth. You’ll get a firsthand look at Japanese life, customs, and business practices, while sharing your own culture with your new Japanese friends and colleagues.
Before applying, ensure you fully understand the visa terms and the expectations of you as a visitor in Japan. Always confirm all the information with the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, a Working Holiday Visa can open the doors to an enriching and transformative journey.
Useful Tips
- You can get free Help with your accommodation with Gogo Nihon.
- If you wish to learn Japanese while being in Japan Gogo Nihon can help you choosing the right school for free!
- Klook is one of the best apps to travel around Japan, they simplify the process of getting accommodation, SIM cards, Tours, etc.. A trustworthy app used by many travelers.
- Get a pasmo or suica either on your phone or card it will make your life easier from the start.
- You need a phone number to get a bank account
- In case you leave Japan during your stay, be sure to ask for a re-entry permit at your nearest immigration office center or the airport.
- the minimum wage in Tokyo is around ¥1,113 an hour. While it might be the highest, as you may know it is also the most expensive city.
- There are more Job opportunities around the touristic spots.
- as a Working Holiday Visa holder you’re considered a resident in Japan, therefore you cannot get a JR pass. see here from the JR pass webpage
- Knowing Japanese is a huge plus that will give you access to a better pay also to get a job faster, plus you’ll be immersed in daily Japanese conversations as well as their culture and lifestyle.
Some things to pack to Japan – Tips
- If you’re a girl be aware that Japanese sizes are quite small, completely different from the west.
- Pack medicine as Japanese medicine usually is not as strong as Western medicine
- Bring cash, as much as you possibly can. Japan still uses more cash than cards so it’s highly recommended to have cash and a coin purse.
