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Working holiday in
Japan

The visa is free, and the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and Canada all qualify. Compare the annual caps and the rules that change by nationality, verified against official sources.

Mount Fuji framed by cherry blossoms across Lake Kawaguchi in spring.

Working holiday visa programmes

Visa programmes
Working Holiday
Visa fee
Varies
By nationality
Eligible nationalities
5
Maximum stay
Up to 12 months
Where extensions apply

Processing time varies by passport, visa subclass and current government processing conditions. Age limits, length of stay and fees also differ by nationality, so check your own route below.

Can you get a working holiday visa for Japan?

5 nationalities have a working holiday agreement with Japan. Find your country to see the visa available to you, the age limit, length of stay and application requirements.

Compare fees, ages and stay lengths for every nationality →
New to Japan?
Start here: first-week checklist
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Get ready for Japan

Banking

Open a local account soon after you arrive in Japan so you can get paid and skip foreign-card fees. Most banks let you start the application online before you land.

Mobile and connectivity

Set up a local number or eSIM in Japan for data and calls. The major networks have the widest coverage; budget MVNOs run on the same towers for less.

Tax

The work/tax number you need in Japan, how to apply, and what it means for getting paid.

Healthcare

What healthcare you can access in Japan, how to see a doctor, and whether you need insurance.

Living and working in Japan

Cost of livingWhat a working holiday in Japan actually costs: rent, wages, food, and transport.Opening a bank accountHow to open an account in Japan, which banks are easiest for newcomers, and how to get paid.Getting a SIMMobile networks, budget MVNOs, and eSIM options for staying connected in Japan.HealthcareWhat healthcare you can access in Japan, how to see a doctor, and whether you need insurance.Tax and work numberThe work/tax number you need in Japan, how to apply, and what it means for getting paid.
All Japan living guides →

Japan working holiday FAQ

Is the Japan working holiday visa free?

Yes. The Japan working holiday visa is free of charge for every eligible nationality. Canada has an optional third-party agency service fee, but the visa itself is still free.

Which nationalities can do a working holiday in Japan?

Among English-speaking markets, the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and Canada all qualify. Each has its own annual cap and a few rules that differ by nationality.

What is the age limit for the Japan working holiday visa?

All five English-speaking markets are open to applicants aged 18 to 30.

How long can I stay in Japan on a working holiday?

Most nationalities get 12 months. Australia is the exception, with an initial 6 months that can be extended in Japan, and Canada can extend by up to a further year.

Your first-week checklist

The practical order of things for your first days. What to sort and where to go next.