Working Holiday Visa 2025 now also for the second stay!

Japan has made groundbreaking changes to its Working Holiday visa program, opening up unprecedented opportunities for a second stay. These changes, which came into force at the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025, mark the most significant expansion of the program since its introduction in 1980.

Introduction to the Working Holiday Visa for Japan

The Working Holiday visa gives young people from various countries the opportunity not only to travel to Japan, but also to live and work there for a limited time. It is primarily aimed at adventurers between 18 and 30 years of age, although the exact age limit may differ depending on the country of origin—for example, for Iceland it is 18 to 26 years. The visa promotes intercultural exchange and allows you to experience Japanese culture in an intensive and authentic way. Applicants can gain experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist visit.

More information here (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan) .

Important changes since December 2024

Second stay now possible

The first phase of the expansion of the Working Holiday visa program began on December 1st, 2024 and initially targeted five countries with established bilateral relations: Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Denmark and Austria. These countries were the first to be approved for a second stay, with conditions differing depending on nationality ^{[1] [2]}.

The new regulations offer special flexibility for British and Canadian citizens. They may participate in two separate one-year periods. This option is a unique provision that is not available to other nationalities and reflects the strong diplomatic and economic relationships between these countries and Japan ^{[3] [4]}.

Citizens of New Zealand, Denmark and Austria are subject to different parameters. They may only reapply for the Working Holiday visa after returning to their home countries, which allows for two separate one-year periods instead of consecutive stays ^[5].

Expansion in January 2025

The second phase of the program started on January 1st, 2025 and expanded the option for a second stay to three further European nations: Germany, Ireland and Slovakia. The German Embassy in Japan explicitly confirmed that since January 2025, the Working Holiday visa may be applied for a second stay, with all previous conditions remaining unchanged ^{[6] [7]}. Starting from October 1st, 2025, South Korean nationals can now also apply for a second stay through the Working Holiday visa ^[8]. 

• Waiting time between stays: There is no mandatory waiting period between the two stays. However, the first stay must be completed before a second visa can be applied for ^[9].
• Renewal of the second visa: The duration of stay for the second Working Holiday visa is also a maximum of one year. Extension of the second visa directly while in Japan is not permitted . Anyone who wishes to participate again must apply for the second visa separately from their home country ^[10].
• Consequences of exceeding the length of stay: It is crucial to comply with visa regulations. Overstaying may result in legal consequences and future bans on entering Japan ^[11].

For more information, visit the websites of the respective Japanese embassies.

Expanded participating countries

• December 2024 (first phase):
  • Canada
  • United Kingdom
  • New Zealand
  • Denmark
  • Austria
• January 2025 (second phase):
  • Germany
  • Ireland
  • Slovakia
• October 2025 
  • Korea

The move to expand participating countries reflects Japan’s commitment to promoting international cultural exchange and giving more people the unique opportunity to experience the country. 

• Application process for the second stay: There are generally no specific additional requirements for the second application, except that the first stay must be completed and the basic eligibility criteria (such as age, purpose of stay, financial means, and health insurance) must be met ^{[12] [13]}.
• Health requirements: An international health insurance is required. However, there are no specific health checks or certificates required for the second application.
• Health insurance obligations: It is possible to join the National Health Insurance, but you should clarify at entry whether this is mandatory again for the second stay.
• Re-entry Permit: It is not explicitly stated whether holders of a second Working Holiday visa require a re-entry permit if you wish to leave Japan during your stay and re-enter.
• Registration and residence card: Upon entry, you will be issued a residence card. The process is identical to the first stay.

For further information and details, please visit the official websites of the Japanese embassies and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Start your adventure and discover Japan from a whole new perspective! We at HosonoDE Marketing Agency look forward to being part of your journey and supporting your professional development in Japan.

Requirements for the Working Holiday Visa

Conditions for applying

The basic requirements for a Working Holiday visa in Japan are largely uniform for all partner countries: Applicants must usually be between 18 and 30 years old (exception: Iceland , 18–26 years), and the stay is limited to a maximum of 12 months. Some countries now allow for a second participation in the program, including Canada, Austria, Denmark, Germany, United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand, Slovakia and South Korea (as of October 2025). The main purpose of the stay should be holiday and cultural exchange; side jobs are permitted but not in entertainment, gambling, or nightlife. Applicants must also provide proof of sufficient financial means to cover their living expenses during the stay, as well as a return ticket or funds for the return journey. In addition, valid health insurance, a resume, travel itinerary, and letter of motivation are required. Due to these country-specific differences, especially regarding age limit and financial requirements, applicants should always check the latest information from the Japanese embassy in their home country.

Age limits and application process

The age limits for the Working Holiday visa differ depending on the country of origin but are typically between 18 and 30 years (up to the day before your 31st birthday). The application must be submitted to the Japanese embassy or consulate general in the respective home country, with specific requirements and procedures differing by country. It is important to check the country-specific information. In general, the application process includes the following steps:

1. Prepare documents: Make sure all required documents are prepared according to your country’s specifications.
2. Book an appointment: Make an appointment at the relevant Japanese embassy or consulate general.
3. Submit the application: Submit your application and documents in person.
4. Wait for a decision: Processing time after submission may take several weeks depending on the embassy.

Source: Dreamstudiesabroad

Tips for a successful stay in Japan

Combine work and travel

The Working Holiday visa lets you experience the best of both worlds—working and traveling. Here are some tips to get the most out of your stay:

• Explore job opportunities: Research temporary job opportunities in Japan ahead of time. Popular options include working in hostels, language teaching, or gastronomy. Through our agency HosonoDE we also offer jobs for foreigners who want to work in Japan, especially in the fields of marketing, e-commerce, and programming. We are happy to support international talent and give you the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a dynamic environment. Our official company languages are German and English. Japanese is rarely spoken, so no Japanese language skills are required.
• Networking: Make contacts with other travelers and locals to get valuable tips and recommendations. This can also help when job hunting.

Career opportunities at DOITSUYA COMPANY LIMITED

As an agency headquartered in Japan, DOITSUYA COMPANY LIMITED (RyuKoch) offers exciting career opportunities for international talent. We are continuously seeking motivated employees who wish to use their Working Holiday visa to gain valuable professional experience in Japan.

Our offers

• Working Holiday positions: We offer positions for Working Holiday participants in various areas of our agency. These positions are the perfect opportunity to get to know Japan and gain valuable work experience at the same time.
• Internships: For students and graduates we offer exciting internship opportunities. These are ideal for getting a first insight into the Japanese working world and gaining practical experience.
• Long-term perspectives: Many of our Working Holiday employees are offered permanent positions after successful collaboration. We support the transition from a Working Holiday to a long-term stay in Japan.

Requirements

• Language skills: English is our main business language and therefore essential. German skills are a welcome extra, but not a requirement.
• Openness and flexibility: We are looking for people who are willing to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and are ready to take on new challenges.

Visit our careers page to discover current job offers and learn more about opportunities with us. We look forward to meeting you and being part of your Japan adventure!

Conclusion: A second adventure in Japan

The Working Holiday visa now offers the fantastic opportunity to experience Japan for a second time and delve even deeper into its culture. With the right preparation and an openness to new experiences, this stay will surely be an unforgettable adventure. 

For more information and details, visit the official websites of the Japanese embassies and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Start your adventure and discover Japan from a whole new perspective! We at the HosonoDE Marketing Agency look forward to being part of your journey and supporting your professional development in Japan.