Working Holiday Visa 2025 now also for the second stay!

For citizens of multiple nations, there is exciting news: The Working Holiday Visa for Japan now allows a second stay!

Introduction to the Working Holiday Visa for Japan

The Working Holiday Visa offers young people from various countries the opportunity not only to travel to Japan but also to work and live there temporarily. It is primarily aimed at adventurers between the ages of 18 and 30, although the exact age limit may vary depending on the country of origin—for example, in Iceland it is between 18 and 26. The visa promotes intercultural exchange and allows you to experience Japanese culture in an intensive and authentic way. Interested individuals can thus gather experiences that go far beyond an ordinary tourist stay.

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

Important Changes since January 2025

Second Stay Now Possible

Since January 1, 2025, citizens of several countries have been allowed to use the Working Holiday Visa for a second stay in Japan. This means that those who have already been in Japan on such a visa can now return for a second time for up to one year. This change offers a unique opportunity to deepen previous experiences, make new discoveries, and maintain existing friendships. The second stay allows participants to immerse themselves even deeper into Japanese culture and gather even more intense experiences.

• Waiting Period between Stays: The first stay must be completed before a second visa can be applied for. However, there is no prescribed waiting period between the two stays.
• Cost of the Second Visa: It is not explicitly mentioned whether fees apply for the second visa. Interested individuals should check with the relevant Japanese embassy for up-to-date information.
• Extension of the Second Visa: The duration of the second Working Holiday Visa is also limited to a maximum of one year. A extension of the second visa directly within Japan is excluded . Anyone wishing to participate again must apply for the second visa separately in their home country and cannot extend it immediately after the first visa expires.
• Consequences of Overstaying: It is crucial to comply with the visa regulations. Overstaying can lead to legal consequences and a future entry ban.
• Impact of the First Stay: Your behavior during the first stay can play a role. Positive behavior and adherence to all regulations can positively influence the second application.

You can find further information on the websites of the respective Japanese embassies.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

Expanded Participating Countries

The significant change allowing a second stay applies to a variety of countries. Here is a detailed list of the affected countries benefiting from the new regulation:

• Australia
• Denmark
• Germany
• France
• Hong Kong
• Ireland
• Iceland
• Canada
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Sweden
• Slovakia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• United Kingdom

The move to expand the list of participating countries reflects Japan's commitment to promoting international cultural exchange and offering more people the unique opportunity to experience the country.

• Application Process for the Second Stay: There are no specific additional requirements for the second application, other than that the first stay must be completed.
• Health Requirements: A travel health insurance is required. However, there are no specific health examinations or proofs required for the second application.
• Health Insurance Obligations: The option to join the National Health Insurance is available, but details on whether this is again obligatory for the second stay should be clarified upon entry.
• Re-entry Permit: It is not explicitly mentioned whether holders of a second Working Holiday Visa require a re-entry permit if you leave and re-enter Japan during your stay.
• Registration and Residence Card: Upon entry, a residence card is issued. The process is identical to that of the first stay.

Current information and specific requirements for the expanded participating countries can be found on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan .

More information here (JAPAN Association for Working Holiday) .

Requirements for the Working Holiday Visa

Conditions for Application

The basic requirements for a Working Holiday Visa in Japan are largely uniform for all partner countries: Applicants are usually required to be between 18 and 30 years old (except in the case of Iceland, where it is 18–26 years), and the stay is limited to a maximum of 12 months. Some countries now allow a second participation in the program, including Austria, Denmark, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand, and Slovakia . A special mention goes to the United Kingdom, where an extension of the visa within Japan for up to 24 consecutive months is even possible. The main aim of the stay should be vacation and cultural exchange; side jobs are permitted but must not be in the entertainment, gambling, or nightlife industries. Applicants must also prove sufficient financial means (usually around 2,000 - 4,000 EUR or the equivalent in local currency, and in France even 3,100–4,500 EUR), often supplemented by a return ticket or additional funds. Furthermore, a valid health insurance, a resume, an itinerary, and a motivation letter are required. Due to these country-specific differences, particularly regarding age limits, financial proofs, and the possibility of a visa repetition, applicants should always verify the most up-to-date information with the Japanese embassy in their home country.

Age Restrictions and Application Process

The age limits for the Working Holiday Visa vary depending on the country of origin, but typically range between 18 and 30 years old (up until the day before one’s 31st birthday). The application must be submitted at the Japanese embassy or a consulate in the respective home country, with specific requirements and procedures varying by country. Therefore, it is important to verify the country-specific information carefully. In general, the application process includes the following steps:

1. Preparation of Documents: Make sure that all required documents are prepared according to the specifications of your country.
2. Appointment Scheduling: Arrange an appointment with the responsible Japanese embassy or consulate.
3. Submission of the Application: Submit the application and documents in person.
4. Waiting for the Decision: The processing time after submission can take several weeks, depending on the embassy.

Source: Dreamstudiesabroad

Tips for a Successful Stay in Japan

Combining Work and Travel

The Working Holiday Visa allows you to experience the best of both worlds – working and traveling. Here are some tips to make the most of your stay:

• Explore Job Opportunities: Research temporary job opportunities in Japan in advance. Popular options include working in hostels, teaching languages, or working in the hospitality industry. Through our agency HosonoDE we also offer jobs for foreigners who wish to work in Japan, particularly in the fields of marketing, e-commerce, and programming. We are delighted to support international talent and offer you the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a dynamic environment. Our official company languages are German and English. Japanese is rarely spoken, so Japanese language skills are not required.
• Plan Your Itinerary: Create a flexible itinerary to explore various parts of Japan. Popular destinations include Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and the rural regions.

  

• Network: Connect with other travelers and locals to receive valuable tips and recommendations. This can also be helpful when searching for jobs.

Conclusion: A Second Adventure in Japan

The Working Holiday Visa now offers the fantastic opportunity to experience Japan a second time and immerse yourself even deeper into its culture. With the right preparation and openness to new experiences, this stay is sure to be an unforgettable adventure. 

For further information and details, visit the official pages of the Japanese embassy 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 providing you with opportunities for your professional development in Japan.