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Work and Travel in Japan

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Many foreigners, hold a lifelong desire to travel to Japan, perhaps because the culture is so unique and exotic, especially for westerners. It has a reputation for being expensive and difficult for outsiders to assimilate into, so it’s best to be well-prepared before attempting to work and travel here. However, for those that are willing to push through the culture shock, the rewards for working and travelling in Japan can be great. Read on through our guide to making the most of your adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun. 1. Work in IT in Japan The tech field, of course, is constantly expanding and evolving, and Japan is a country often on the cutting-edge of technological advances. If you have good programming or software engineering skills, you can often find work without speaking much Japanese, which is generally a barrier to entry for many foreigners seeking work in Japan. 2. Teaching English at cram schools  Teaching English as a native speaker is the most common position for foreigners looking to work and travel in Japan. The jobs often don’t pay very well, but backpackers can find work teaching at any time of year, and therefore is a great starting point for new arrivals looking to learn about Japanese culture. 3. Caregiving in an ageing home It is common knowledge that Japan has the highest proportion of elderly citizens of any country in the world. This has created a busy and booming market for elder care, since many young people in the big cities live in cramped apartments are too busy with work to keep their parents at home. If you enjoy working with older people, you don’t necessarily need any experience or even great Japanese language skills to start working in elder care in Japan.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR JAPAN

Japan allows several nationalities from having to obtain a tourist visa before entering the country. Citizens from most European countries, United States, Australia, and Argentina do not need to get the Japan Tourist Visa since they are considered visa-exempt countries for tourism purposes. Nationals from any of those regions can stay in Japan for a maximum of 90 days visa-free and are assigned Temporary Visitor status. Under the single-entry regulation, tourists can remain in Japan for up to 30 days, but this tourist visa is valid for a period of up to 90 days. Tourists can also apply for a double-entry visa for 2 short trips within a 6-month period. An E-Visa option is upcoming, but has yet to be released, likely due to the pandemic. Citizens of China, Russia, the Phillippines, Vietnam and CIS countries will need a tourist visa sorted before entering the country.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN JAPAN

Spring work.

For being a relatively small, island-based country, Japan enjoys a wide variety of climates. Visitors are attracted not only to the cities but to mountain resorts and organic farms in small rural villages. Backpackers have their choice from a variety of beautiful locations when finding work in hospitality.  Springtime is the best point in the year to find hospitality work, with many visitors coming over to witness the cherry blossoms but before western tourists start to arrive on summer vacation en masse. There are hotels alongside hot springs where you can volunteer in exchange for a bed, as well as hostels in the big city of Hokkaido where you can learn the art of running a hostel.

SUMMER JOBS

We recommend finding a work and travel opportunity at one of Japan’s many organic farms in the summer months. There are the usual fruit and vegetable farms, but also bee farms where honey is harvested, and terraced farms for rice.  You’ll learn unique growing methods that will give you an edge back home if you decide to continue in the gardening or landscaping field. Just be aware that summers in Japan can be extremely hot, so you should be in good physical condition.

Many people say autumn is the best time of year to visit Japan, since the weather is at its most pleasant and mild.  It’s a great time to join historical conservation projects in the country. You’ll have the option of working in far off temples or hosting groups that visit these sites. All you need to partake in these projects is an interest in history and a willingness to work.

Japan has proudly hosted the winter Olympics before, and it is clear to see why - the ski resorts are very popular. Backpackers can find work and travel opportunities at these places in Nagano, Niigata, and Yamagata prefecture, even if you don’t have any winter sports experience. How? Often au pairs are needed to watch after children, or chalet cleaners to keep the resorts clean.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN JAPAN

Japan is an extremely modern country, with all the comforts of home and then some. You shouldn’t have any concerns about health issues or safety while working and travelling in Japan.  The challenges for a foreigner in Japan come with understanding the nuances of social behaviour within the culture. As a westerner, it can be difficult to grasp the priority of “the group” over the individual. You must learn to respect these social constructs, however, or you will not be embraced by your employers. Some ex-pats complain that even after years of living in Japan and learning the language fluently, they never truly feel welcome. Japan is certainly an enticing and mysterious bucket-list country for working travellers. So the only question remains - are you ready to start planning your Japanese adventure?

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How to Work in Japan Legally: Japanese Work Visas and Eligibility

With a highly developed free-market economy and the third-largest nominal GDP in the world, it’s easy to see why Japan is an attractive destination for workers who want to relocate abroad.

Increasingly more international professionals are deciding to make the move to Japan to work: in 2018, over 1.4 million foreigners were working in Japan — a 14.2 % increase from the previous year.

This surge is not only due to economic growth and an overall improvement in employment conditions but also to the fact that the Japanese government has implemented strategies and policies to encourage highly-skilled foreign labor .

Part of this plan is the launch of new Japanese work visas for foreign nationals sponsored by local companies. Eligible workers who meet the work visa requirements (including a Japanese language test) are now able to apply for 2 different new types of visas depending on their specific circumstances.

The new working visas join the existing list of Japanese visas for professionals allowing skilled worker categories and business people to work in the country .

What Are the Japanese Work Visa Available?

There are several options available to get a work visa for Japan . The applicant’s eligibility will depend on a series of factors such as:

• The country issuing the applicant’s passport
• The applicant’s qualifications and skills, including previous work experience
• Whether the applicant intends to bring business to Japan or work as an employee in a Japanese enterprise.

Although work visas may be made available with an online application in the future , it must be noted that the only travel authorization for Japan that can be obtained entirely online at the moment is the Japan eVisa for tourism purposes .

Currently, foreigners who wish to obtain a business or work visa will need to visit a Japanese embassy or consulate in person.

Invest in Japan: the Business Visas

Japanese business visas are designed for foreigners who wish to work and invest in the country. Eligible professionals include:

• Stockholders
• Company directors
• Deputy directors
• Technical officers
• Volunteers for non-governmental organizations
• Staff members of Diplomatic Missions, General Consulates, the United
• Nations Agencies and other international organizations.

These visas also include subcategories to match specifically the sector and type of project the applicant will be involved in while in Japan — for example, Diplomatic, Official, Media, Investor, etc.

Work in a Japanese Company with the Work Visas

There are 4 types of working visa categories to match the different employee profiles that the country needs at the moment. Regardless of the specific category that matches their skillset, applicants need to be hired by a Japanese company in order to obtain the visa.

The work visas are intended for a variety of professional profiles, including:

• Highly-skilled and specialized workers
• Professors and researchers
• Blue-collar employees working in industries with a high demand for labor such as catering, cleaning, construction, agriculture, and fishing

Some of these visa schemes are designed around a point-based system that evaluates the applicant’s academic achievements as well as their professional background.

It’s also possible, in some cases, for work visa holders to bring their families to Japan.

How Long Is a Work Visa in Japan?

The Japanese work visas are long-term permits that allow foreign citizens to live and work in Japan for an extensive period of time — from three months to five years depending on the circumstances. There’s also the opportunity for renewal.

The validity of a Japanese business visa is 90 days . During this time, the business visa holder can enter and leave the country multiple times.

How Can I Get a Working Visa for Japan?

In order to be eligible for a work visa for Japan , you’ll need to meet the conditions to obtain a Status of Residence (SOR) that permits employment within the country.

Of course, the application process varies on a case-by-case basis and it’s heavily affected by the applicant’s specific circumstances. However, foreigners who wish to legally work as employees in Japan can generally take the following steps :

• Approach a Japanese company that can act as a visa sponsor and is willing to hire the applicant. Usually, all work visas require sponsorship.
• Identify the right type of visa that matches the applicant’s skills and circumstances.
• Check the work visa requirements and obtain the necessary documentation. The sponsoring entity will be able to assist.
• Visit the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate to start the application in person. The applicant will need to submit paper copies of the required documentation (such as passport, recent photographs, letter of guarantee, etc.) and pay the relevant application fee. The cost of a work visa for Japan varies and the embassy or consulate will be able to provide detailed information.

The processing time varies depending on the Japan visa type as well as the applicant’s situation. The extension of the e-Visa program to work permits is expected to make the application smoother and faster.

Can I Work in Japan without a Visa?

It’s illegal to work without an appropriate visa in Japan and doing so may expose you to serious consequences.

Even if you’re legally in the country with another visa (for example, a tourist visa or other short-term travel authorization), performing work on Japanese soil would break the conditions and requirements of your visa .

Not only this means that your visa will be canceled but you may face fines, deportation, and even detention. Moreover, breaking the law may prevent you from applying for a Japanese visa in the future.

It’s also worth noticing that many countries ask for the applicant’s history of visa rejection or cancelation in their visa application forms . In other words, you may be asked in the future whether one of your visa applications has ever been rejected. This means that not respecting the Japanese migration policy and having your visa canceled may be taken into account by other nations when you’re applying for visas in the future.

If you intend to work in Japan but are unsure about your eligibility or are already in the country on another visa, you can contact the Japanese authorities (your nearest embassy or a Japanese migration office) to explore your options.

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How to Live ( And Sometimes Work) in Japan on Working Holiday: The Ultimate Guide The best way to get a working visa for Japan and then spend most of your time vacationing

July 30, 2019 • words written by Julia Mascetti • Art by Aya Francisco

If you're an independent soul and would like your time in Japan to be flexible and adventurous, a working holiday could be your best option.

Want to live in Japan but don't fancy being an English teacher? Can't do the JET Program because you're not a native English speaker or don't have a university degree? Or maybe you've saved up a little money and want to travel around Japan while working part-time? If you're from an eligible country, a Working Holiday visa for Japan might be just your ticket. It allows you to live and work in Japan without a full-time job, a university course, or a visa sponsor.

If you're an independent soul and would like your time in Japan to be flexible and adventurous, a working holiday could be your best option. Mine was one of the most memorable years of my life: from teaching English to freelance writing and entertainment work, I held many different jobs. I studied Japanese hard, partied harder, and in the end managed to get employed in my field and convert to a regular Specialist in Humanities visa.

What follows is the full guide—from applying for your visa, to work and housing options, and even how to convert to a standard working visa if you want to stay in Japan—all from someone who has done it. I'm British, so I'll be writing from that perspective, but most of my advice and experiences apply to any nationality eligible for a Working Holiday visa (and now more countries than ever have joined the party). When in doubt, check with your country's Japanese embassy.

Am I Eligible?

How to apply for working holiday in japan, time of year, be careful with jobs, money in the bank, housing tips, registration and insurance, work options, can i leave and come back, staying in japan after working holiday, testimonials from working holiday participants, on to the best vacation of your life, about working holidays in japan.

In Japan, a working holiday is a visa classification that falls under the "Designated Activities" category. It allows you to live, travel, and work in Japan for a limited period of time, usually about a year, although it varies by country. Working holiday programs are bilateral agreements Japan enters into with individual countries, which means that if you're working in Japan, there's a Japanese counterpart working in your country too.

According to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs , this kind of visa allows young people to enter Japan "primarily for the purpose of spending holidays while allowing them to engage in employment as an incidental activity of their holidays for the purpose of supplementing their travel funds." This means the visa is specifically designed for you to work part-time or freelance, all while having the time of your life.

Even if you're interested in the visa just to have a holiday, there is no limit on the number of hours you can work per week—unlike, say, the student visa, which forbids you from doing more than twenty-eight hours during term time. On a standard working visa, you're restricted to a certain type of work (such as teaching in public schools on the Instructor visa). By contrast, with a Working Holiday visa, you can do any kind of work as long as it's not at "businesses which may impact public morals" (e.g., host bars ). Working holiday is one of the only visa types in which a foreigner can do "unskilled" labor in Japan, such as working at a café or factory.

Working holidays aren't new. The first country to enter into this bilateral agreement with Japan was Australia, in 1980, but many others have followed suit—Iceland and Chile joined in as recently as 2018. If you're a citizen of any of the following countries, you may be eligible to take a working holiday in Japan. You'll also find a link to your country's embassy with the relevant information.

Check the specific conditions of the Working Holiday visa with your Japanese embassy using the links above. Age limits in particular can vary depending on nationality, but the following are the normal eligibility requirements:

• Being between eighteen and thirty years old at the time of application.
• Able to prove you have sufficient funds in the bank to pay for your stay in Japan (around $3,000, or $2,000 if you apply with a return plane ticket).
• Traveling without dependents, although married couples can apply together if they both meet the criteria.
• Being in good health. Some countries require you to submit health information or have insurance coverage. I didn't have to do this.
• You must "be of good character." This is vague, but if you don't have a criminal record, you're probably fine.

Compared to other visas, the working holiday application process is relatively straightforward. I was living in the UK when I applied, which was convenient since applicants must apply from their own country. And although I was worried because I had worked in Japan before and thought it might negatively impact my application, it never came up.

The first step was to gather my documents and head to my nearest consulate—in my case, the Embassy of Japan in London. I brought the following:

• Passport photo for the application
• Completed application form, which can be downloaded from your embassy's website .
• "Outline of Intended Activities." This was my itinerary: where I planned to travel, what I planned to do, etc.
• "Written Reason for Applying," typed on A4 paper. These were my intentions and reasons for wanting to spend a year in Japan.
• Three months of bank statements showing I had the necessary funds (in pounds, in my case).
• Return plane ticket. (Because I had this, the amount of funds I had to prove I had was lower.)

Compared to other visas, the working holiday application process is relatively straightforward.

Be aware that you need photo ID to enter the embassy and that your bags will be checked for dangerous objects. Once inside, I took a ticket and waited for my number to be called. I brought my documents to the counter where they were inspected by a staff member. When the embassy was satisfied everything was in order, a cheerful man took everything (including my passport), gave me my application receipt, and told me to come back in ten days. Another plus for the Working Holiday visa is that it's issued quickly—waiting times are usually between one and two weeks.

I made sure not to lose my application receipt and came back in ten days. I was accepted! It was spring, and I celebrated by buying some takeaway sushi and heading to the park opposite the embassy, where I enjoyed it with a little rare British sunshine!

Tips for Getting Your Application Accepted

The good news is that almost everyone who applies for a Working Holiday visa for Japan gets accepted if they meet the eligibility criteria . I wanted to book my return flight before applying so I could show evidence of the spent funds, but I was nervous of doing so in case my application was rejected. Talking to other people who had been through the process made me feel more confident, however, as did reading stories online. Although there is very little cause for concern, it's still wise to do everything you can to ensure your application gets accepted.

I'm not an immigration lawyer, but I've picked up a few tips from people who've been through the process.

Depending on your home country, there may be a limit to how many people can do a working holiday per year . The visa application process usually operates on the Japanese financial year (April to March)—if you're concerned, it might be a good idea to get your application in early. I applied in May and had no trouble. But when I checked the embassy website in December, I saw that the quota for British nationals had been filled for that year.

Remember that the stated purpose of the Working Holiday visa is for a holiday . Japan wants you to come and spend your foreign money in every corner of its beautiful country, then to do a little work so you can go out and spend some more. What they don't want you to do is go to Tokyo and work at the same company for a year and not travel anywhere. From their perspective, if you want to do that, you should be seeking a standard working visa. Once your visa is accepted and you arrive in Japan, if it works out that you do end up working at one company and not traveling, that's fine. But for your "outline of intended activities," it doesn't hurt to err on the side of being adventurous!

A good itinerary should be vague enough to allow for flexibility in your travel plans, yet detailed enough to show you've done your research and aren't just flying to Japan on a whim. Demonstrating that you intend to go somewhere that's not the capital and that you know a little about the tourism specialties of multiple prefectures can't hurt. Again, your itinerary can be vague—skiing in Hokkaido, beaches in Okinawa, etc.

No one will check up on you, so while I don't encourage bald-faced lies, if you think there's something that sounds cool but you're not fully committed to doing it, go ahead and put it in! On my itinerary, I claimed I was going to spend three months as a chalet girl in Niseko—which sounds really fun—but that certainly did not happen. Also, if you don't know how to format your outline, the Japanese Embassy in the UK provides this handy layout .

Is this you? "I've already got a job offer from a company in Japan, so I'll show immigration how serious I am by mentioning it in my application letter!" No, no, no! Aside from applicants with criminal records, this is one of the most common reasons people get rejected.

I'll say it again: the purpose of a working holiday is for the work part to be incidental . I've heard of less scrupulous companies, who really should be sponsoring proper working visas for full-time employees, asking their new hires to get a Working Holiday visa instead because it's less work for the company. This is the kind of situation immigration wants to avoid. Once you're in Japan, it's absolutely fine if you end up working full-time. But if you have a job offer, keep it to yourself at the application stage.

Unfortunately, in this world, money talks: if your bank account shows you've got more than the minimum required amount by a safe margin, it looks good for your application. Overdrafts, loans, credit cards—these aren't accepted as proof of sufficient funds. Some people get a family member to lend them the amount for the purpose of the application, but be careful. Depending on your home country, you may need to show three months of bank statements. If you're in the red and a suspiciously large transfer appears in your account one week before you apply, that's not going to look good. Arrange your funds so that you give yourself the best chance for success.

Life on Working Holiday in Japan

One potential downside to the Working Holiday visa is that you'll have very little support. Although some employers do offer assistance, for the most part you won't have any visa sponsor to hold your hand through the arrival process. However, managing your life in Japan independently is easy enough with a little research, even if you don't speak Japanese. Doing it will actually give you a better understanding of the country than if a company did it for you.

Here is some information you'll need.

Housing can be a little tricky on a Working Holiday visa. You probably don't have a full-time job with a company that can act as a guarantor, and the time limit on the visa can also count against you. Still, working holiday-ers have many viable options. If you're working a ski season (or similar), your job might be able to help you find housing or put you up in a company dormitory. Otherwise, "share houses" (シェアハウス) could work for you.

If your language skills are strong, you might get a better deal by searching for share houses in the same way a Japanese person would.

Share houses are communal living spaces (rooms) you rent month to month (or every three months). You're not usually required to have a guarantor to stay there, and many share houses actively welcome foreigners. And while they used to have a bit of a reputation among Japanese people for being spartan, they've been gaining popularity in recent years. Today you'll find a wide variety of share house options, from budget rooms to downright luxury (I have seen a share house with an honest-to-god grand piano in the communal space), as well as women-only share houses and "concept" share houses such as this share house/exhibition space for artists .

The main advantage of a share house is that you don't have to pay a deposit or the dreaded reikin (key money) , and utilities are usually included. And while this makes share houses great for shorter stays, it also means the monthly rent can be higher than a regular, similar-sized apartment. For many people on working holiday, however, the pros of share houses outweigh the cons.

Here are some housing agencies for share houses that offer services in English. Many share house companies have self-contained apartments too.

• Oakhouse : Share houses and apartments in Tokyo, Saitama, Chiba, Kyoto, and Hyogo
• Leopalace : Small, self-contained apartments in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka
• C's Share House : Women-only share houses in Osaka and elsewhere in Kansai
• Sakura House : Share houses and apartments in Tokyo and Yokohama. Short-stay guest houses and hostels are also available.
• Tulip Real Estate : Women-only share houses in Tokyo

If your language skills are strong, you might get a better deal by searching for share houses in Japanese. You'll sacrifice the foreigner-friendly service but, as long as you can communicate, your nationality isn't usually a problem. Sometimes individual listings will claim that they don't accept foreigners, but in my experience this is far more of a rarity with share houses than with apartments.

Here are some Japanese-only links to search for share houses:

• Hitsuji Fudōsan : Kanto
• Guest House Bank : Kanto, Nagoya, Kyushu, Okinawa

After finding a place to live, within fourteen days you are legally obliged to visit your local ward office to register as a resident . This will give you access to a range of government services, including national health insurance. For most full-time employees in Japan, including foreign nationals, their employer pays their social insurance as part of a system called shakai hoken . If you don't have a full-time job, like most people on working holiday, you will have to pay it yourself. Fortunately for you, it's calculated based on your earnings from the previous year, and as you were most likely not in Japan at that time, it will be very cheap. Note that if you change your address during your time in Japan, you'll have to register at the ward office nearest your new location. (This only applies to apartments and share houses, not hotels. If you're just traveling, you're good!)

The great thing about the Working Holiday visa is that it allows you to do almost any kind of work. Unless you speak native-level Japanese, however, some types of work are easier to come by than others.

Teaching English: Don't think that the JET Program is your only option. Japan has eikaiwa (English conversation schools) across the country, which offer part- and full-time positions to English speakers, including people on Working Holiday visas. Try a job board for foreigners such as Gaijinpot or Jobs in Japan to find out about opportunities in your area.

Ski Seasons/Resort Jobs: Japan boasts beautiful beaches in the summer and some of the world's best powder snow in the winter. It's not surprising, then, that many working holiday-ers opt to spend a season working at ski or beach resorts. This can be a good option for those with imperfect Japanese, since in these tourist areas you can often get by working in English. boobooSKI is an agency through which you can apply for resort jobs; they will help with accommodation as well.

Internships: If you're working in a big city such as Tokyo or Osaka, consider improving your skills and your Japanese by doing an internship. Bear in mind that although they are becoming more common, internships aren't yet the norm amongst Japanese companies, so you may have better luck applying at international companies, nonprofits, or embassies. (The Australian embassy and British embassy both offer highly-regarded internship programs.) Some agencies such as SJIP or ICC will organize an internship for you, but bear in mind that you may have to pay for it (and it's often not cheap). The EU-Japan Center for Industrial Cooperation has a list of recommended agencies .

Remote Work: Some people on Working Holiday visas don't feel the need to get a local job at all. I know some who simply asked their employer in their home country if they could work remotely for a year, allowing them to live in Japan without taking a career break.

Entertainment Agencies: Enjoy being in front of the camera? In bigger cities, entertainment agencies are eager to sign young foreigners to work as extras, models, and small-time actors. As the Entertainer visa is difficult to come by, plenty of these agencies have working holiday-ers on their books. This article has some good advice on how to submit to agencies, as well as some good ones to apply to. You could even become the next big foreign talent. I mean, it's unlikely, but it could happen…

Service Industry: A Working Holiday visa is one of the few visa types that allow foreigners to do "unskilled labor." This includes working in cafés or factories or as cleaners. Even if you don't speak fluent Japanese, Japan has a labor shortage and is accepting more and more foreigners into these roles, especially in touristy areas where your native language will come in handy. Plenty of nationwide job boards such as YOLO Japan advertise service roles to people on working holidays.

When doing your research, bear in mind that the information on Working Holiday visas on certain websites, even official ones, can be out of date. One example is whether people on working holiday can leave Japan and come back without forfeiting their visa. I remember being confused because I wanted to go back to Europe for a couple weeks to attend a friend's wedding, and even on embassy websites I found contradictory information about whether I could or not. I was under the impression that I would have to pay ¥5,000 for a re-entry permit, but when I went to the Shinagawa immigration bureau to get one, I was told it wasn't necessary.

Turns out it's completely fine to leave Japan while on a working holiday, so feel free to take that trip to Seoul or go home for Christmas. Just remember that your visa expiry date won't change, so consider whether your trip home is worth sacrificing your precious Japan time for!

You're nine months into your working holiday and having the time of your life. You'd intended to have twelve wild and wonderful months in Japan then go back home, but you're finding that you're falling in love. Could it be you want to stay in Japan?

The process is similar to sponsoring a new employee without a visa—with the added convenience that you're already in the country!

The Working Holiday visa is not designed for you to stay long-term. One of the application prerequisites is that people on a working holiday "intend to leave Japan at the end of their stay." Don't be deterred though. If you decide you want to stay, converting to a standard working visa such as Specialist in Humanities is entirely possible. I did it and so have many others. The process is similar to a visa status change if you wanted to convert from, say, a student visa to a working visa. The main thing you need is a company willing to sponsor you.

Four months before my visa was due to expire, I started dropping hints to one of my employers about how much I would love to stay longer. When this didn't work, I threw caution to the wind and decided to formally apply for a full-time position. After I was accepted, my company helped me apply for a working holiday henkō (amendment). They did most of the paperwork, but from what I could gather, the process is similar to sponsoring a new employee without a visa—with the added convenience that you're already in the country! Documents I had to submit included my new employment contract, degree certificate, and a detailed application form.

A working holiday in Japan has the potential to be life-changing. But don't take my word for it! Two working holiday alumni from opposite sides of the world share their thoughts and experiences:

Anne-Marie is from Australia and spent most of her working holiday working as a performer.

I came to Japan on a Working Holiday visa so I could both work and travel with relative ease. When I arrived, I signed up to several agencies working as a model, actress, session singer, and narrator. My backup plan was to teach English, but I never ended up teaching a single lesson. Different jobs from agencies started coming in, and before I knew it I was starring in random commercials on Japanese national TV and was the female voice narrator for children's textbooks. It wasn't always easy: some weeks I had no work and others I was working thirteen-plus-hour days and hardly getting a break. It was a really fun experience, and I enjoyed it a lot, but for me it wasn't a sustainable lifestyle in the long run. After eighteen months on the visa, I felt it was time to go home. I would definitely recommend taking the opportunity of coming here on the Working Holiday visa because it offers the most freedom to figure out if you really want to live in Japan or not.

Agathe is from France and spent the first part of her working holiday baking in a bakery before traveling around Japan for four months.

The best part of the experience for me was the food and meeting unique people—not only Japanese people, but interesting characters from around the world. On the downside, when I started my job as a pastry chef in Tokyo, I felt like some of my coworkers treated me as if I were a cute animal. They were very nice to me, but I could not gain their trust completely. This was frustrating as I was already a trained pastry chef in France. After I finished working, I looked for the cheapest ways to discover Japan. Sometimes I stayed in a farm (mainly in Hokkaido), and I also slept a lot in my tent. The Japanese countryside can be very wild, and that was something else I liked about my time there. Traveling felt very safe, so I slept well even if sometimes I was the only woman (and the only foreigner) at the campsite. For people considering a Working Holiday visa, I would advise you to learn a bit of Japanese before arriving and spend some time with a Japanese person to try to understand how it works over there.

A Working Holiday visa isn't for everyone. Programs like JET offer more stability and support, or you may have your heart set on getting a full-time job at a Japanese company . There are many ways into Japan, which is good because more people want to live in Japan than ever before. But if you value flexibility, have a little money in the bank, and don't want the type of work you can do to be restricted, a working holiday in Japan could be your next adventure.

If you're interested, your first stop should be the working holiday page on MOFA Japan's website or the links to your Japanese embassy listed earlier in this article . Good luck!

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Any foreign visitor entering Japan must have a valid passport for the duration of their stay, and all visitors must comply with the conditions of their visas.

See below for information about the current visa requirements for Japan.

If you have any further questions, please contact the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

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Guide to Working Holidays in Japan

A Working Holiday in Japan is the OG workation. This visa type allows you to both travel and work in Japan — legally . Imagine a gap year, but with the ability to work and top up your travel funds as you go. Yeah, they’re pretty great.

However, before you get too excited there are a few things you need to know. For example, not everyone can get a Working Holiday Visa, and you have to apply in advance. There are also a few bureaucratic things you should know about to make sure you’re doing everything by the book. But don’t worry, a few of us here at Tokyo Cheapo started our lives in Japan with Working Holiday Visas, and we’ve compiled our knowledge here for you.

NOTE: We are not visa experts. While we do our best to make sure all information presented here is accurate, we’re not perfect. Before making any decisions about visas be sure to consult official sources like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan .

What is a Working Holiday Visa?

A Working Holiday Visa (often abbreviated to WHV) is a type of visa that allows you to holiday in Japan for an extended period of time, and work to supplement your travels.

Unlike other categories of working visa, a Working Holiday Visa doesn’t require a company to sponsor you. You file the application by yourself in your home country. There also aren’t as many restrictions on the type of work you can do on a WHV, compared to a regular working visa.

It’s not uncommon for people to come to Japan on a Working Holiday Visa, and then decide to stay. However, if you do that you will need to follow the correct immigration procedures to switch visa type — and you may have to leave the country in the meantime.

A quick terminology breakdown

Let’s just make sure we’re clear on a few key terms before we go any further.

Working Holiday Visa: This is what we’re here to talk about. A special type of visa that allows holders to work while on holiday in Japan. They are usually valid for six months to a year.

Working Visa: A visa category that allows holders to live and work in Japan long term. There are numerous types of working visa, usually specific to the type of work you’re allowed to do. These visas are often sponsored by your employer, and are usually valid for one to five years.

Residence Card: A card that is issued to foreign residents of Japan by the Japanese Government. It serves as an identity card, and includes details like your name, nationality, visa type, address in Japan and period of stay.

City/Ward Office: A local government office that handles various bureaucratic tasks including the registration of residents, health insurance, and pension/welfare benefits. Not all City/Ward Offices have English speaking staff or resources, especially those in regional areas.

Period of stay: The number of months or years that your visa is valid for. For Working Holiday Visa holders it’s usually six months or one year. Your Residence Card will have the period, and the visa expiration date, written on it.

Who can go on a working holiday in Japan?

There are 26 countries that have Working Holiday Visa agreements with Japan. The earliest countries to sign on were Australia, New Zealand and Canada in the 1980s. After that, a fair few European countries joined the program including the U.K., Germany and France. The only Asian countries that have WHV agreements with Japan are the Republic of Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong. There are also two South American countries on the list — Chile and Argentina. Notably, the U.S.A does not have a Working Holiday Agreement with Japan.

You can find the full list of countries here . If your country isn’t one of the 26, then unfortunately a Working Holiday isn’t an option for you. However, the list is steadily expanding with the most recent additions of Sweden, Estonia and the Netherlands in 2020, so don’t give up hope.

What are the requirements?

While the requirements for a Working Holiday Visa are similar, there are some differences depending on your nationality. For the most accurate information check the website of your country’s Embassy or Consulate-General of Japan. Here are some of the general requirements though, to get you started:

• Be aged 18 to 30 years old at the time of application (this goes right up until the day before you turn 31).
• Have proof of a return ticket OR proof you have enough money to buy one.
• AND have proof of enough funds to support yourself for the first few months after arrival.
• Be in good health.

In addition to these, you must never have recieved a Working Holiday Visa for Japan before, and you should be “intending primarily to spend your holiday in Japan for a specific length of time” (source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs website ). Basically, don’t hop around between Japan and other countries too much, or spend most of your time in Japan working. Oh, and while you can go on a Working Holiday with your partner (if they also meet the requirements), you can’t bring dependents (children) with you.

How do you apply for a Working Holiday Visa?

Your first step should be to check the Embassy of Japan or Consulate-General of Japan website for your country. Here is where you’ll find country specific requirements. Keep in mind that in most cases you have to apply in person from your country of citizenship. For example, if you’re an Australian citizen currently living in the U.K, you have to return to Australia to be able to apply, even though both Australia and the U.K have Working Holiday Agreements with Japan.

The website will have a list of documents required for your application. Again there are some differences between countries, but some of the documents you might need to prepare include:

• A valid passport
• A completed Visa Application Form and 35 mm x 45 mm passport style photo
• An up-to-date CV or resume
• Flight details
• A proposed itinerary/schedule
• A statement of purpose
• Proof of funds*
• Proof of good health

*Your Embassy or Consulate-General will usually have a suggested amount. It varies a lot though, expect anywhere from ¥ 200,000 to ¥ 400,000 for a single person with no return ticket.

Once you’ve filled out all your documents, you’ll need to submit them to your Embassy/Consulate-General of Japan. This is usually done in person, but some countries may accept postal or online applications.

Then it’s just a matter of waiting. Usually, you’ll be contacted regarding the outcome after one or two weeks. The next steps normally involve handing over your passport to get your Visa stamp, and possibly more form-filling.

But once all that’s done, congratulations! You’re ready to get on the plane.

What jobs can you do on a working holiday in Japan?

The Working Holiday Visa has surprisingly few restrictions regarding what kind of work you can do, or how many hours you can work. You can’t work in “premises affecting public morals” — think bars, nightclubs and gambling establishments — or you risk deportation. However, pretty much anything else is fair game.

Common jobs for Working Holiday Visa holders include English teaching, and hotel/hostel and ski resort work, as these can be more accommodating of short term workers. Also, because of the COVID-19 pandemic remote work has become more common in Japan. You might be able to find remote work jobs in the tech or games industries, in addition to education, sales and translation.

Finding a job

Nobody likes job searching, but in the context of a Working Holiday Visa it can actually be kind of exciting. It’s an opportunity to gain experience in a completely new industry, or get international experience in your industry.

If you’re especially keen you could start looking online for work before you arrive in Japan. There are lots of job search websites out there, including a large number of English language sites specifically for foreigners.

However, if you start looking for jobs after arriving you can visit in person job search centers like Tokyo Employment Service Center for Foreigners and Hello Work (website in Japanese only).

Extending your stay

Working Holiday Visas come with an initial period of stay that’s usually around six months. Often, Working Holiday Visa holders can apply at the Immigration Office to have their visa extended by another six months.

If you want to stay on after using up your extension, you may be able to change to another visa type. A Working Visa is a popular choice, especially if you’ve found an employer that you like, or a Student Visa if you’d like to study at a Japanese language school or graduate school. However, depending on your nationality, you may not be able to change visa type from within Japan. Instead, you may have to return to your home country and apply for another visa from there.

In case we haven’t said it enough in this article, check the requirements specific to your nationality .

Pro tips for making the most of your Working Holiday in Japan

So, here we are. You’ve got your Working Holiday Visa and you’re ready to live your best (Working Holiday) life. Here are some tried and tested pro tips from us here at Tokyo Cheapo to help you make the most of it.

• Get a Japanese phone number before you arrive. Even if it’s only temporary, it will save you some hassle, especially when trying to open a bank account.
• Get a room in a sharehouse or homestay to start out. You can’t register a hotel or a AirBnb address at your City/Ward Office. And without an address you can’t open a bank account.
• Speaking of which, open a bank account with Japan Post Bank (Yūcho Ginkō). Some other banks won’t allow you to open a bank account until you’ve been in Japan for six months. JP Bank lets you do it right away.
• Pack smart: Some medicines and products might be hard to get in Japan (just make sure you get the proper paperwork for medicine). Also keep in mind that Japanese clothes tend to be on the smaller side — good luck if you are tall, have big feet or wide hips.
• Seasonal work, at ski resorts for example, is a great way to start out.
• Know your rights as a worker in Japan. Here some of the basics: The minimum hourly wage depends on the region you’re in but it’s usually ¥ 850 to ¥ 1,000 . If you work more than six hours in a row you’re entitled to a 45 minute unpaid break, if you work for eight hours you get a 1 hour break. Generally, you shouldn’t work more than 40 hours per week (excluding breaks).
• You are allowed to leave Japan during your period of stay, but you need to get a re-entry permit from the airport on your way out.

Pros and cons of a Working Holiday in Japan

We know this is all a lot of information to take in. Maybe you’re even questioning whether you want a Working Holiday Visa after all. Here’s a quick run down of the pros and cons of a WHV to help you make up your mind.

Starting your life in Japan

To get off on the right foot, here are some things you’ll need to take care of after arriving in Japan.

• Get a SIM card
• Open a bank account
• Consider transfering money to your new bank account
• Find a place to stay
• Visit the City or Ward Office to: register your address, and sign up for National Health Insurance and the National Pension

Now, you might have noticed we bolded that last point. That’s because it’s a legal requirement to register your address at the City or Ward Office within 14 days of moving in. The address will be printed on your Residence Card, and when you move out you have to go back and notify them that you’re moving. This is what we meant when we said moving a lot will mean a lot of paperwork. Signing up for National Health Insurance and the National Pension are also legal requirements. Even if you have insurance and a pension in your home country, you still have to sign up for the Japanese ones while you’re here. Both of these things will involve regular payments after signing up.

NOTE: City/Ward Offices don’t always have English speaking staff or resources, especially in regional areas. The camera function on Google Translate, while imperfect, can be really helpful when filling out paperwork.

Frequently asked questions

Is it hard to get a Working Holiday Visa? If you meet all the requirements and submit the correct documentation, it’s normally pretty easy. However, some countries have a maximum number of applicants that are accepted each year, so that might be something to consider.

How many times can you get a Working Holiday Visa? You can only get it once. However, if you are impacted by unforeseen circumstances (like COVID-19 travel restrictions), you might be able to apply again.

Is it worth getting a Working Holiday Visa? Our biased answer is yes! It’s a great way to travel in Japan while still being able to earn some money.

Can you get a JR Pass while on a Working Holiday Visa? Nope. Working Holiday Visa holders are considered residents of Japan, and therefore aren’t eligible for country-wide JR Passes. However, there are some regional JR Pass available to foreign residents of Japan .

How much does a Working Holiday Visa for Japan cost? Working Holiday Visas are free. However, you Embassy/Consulate-General of Japan may charge a processing, issuing, or visa fee of some kind. If you extend your visa after arriving in Japan, you will have to pay a fee of ¥ 4,000 at the Immigration Office when you pick up your new visa.

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Work and Travel in Japan with a Working Holiday Visa (2023)

“ I want to work and travel in Japan ,” is what many people think. Did you know you can actually do that with Japan’s working holiday system? With a working holiday visa, you too can work and travel in Japan. 

With Japan opening its borders, the working holiday programme has restarted too! It’s too late for this year, but you can still aim for the working holiday visa in 2023! In this article, we will explain the visa type and requirements for working holidays in Japan you’ll need to know! If working whilst travelling in Japan is exactly what you are looking for, then check out this article.

Table of Contents

Working Holiday in Japan Eligible Countries and Regions 

• How many people do working holidays in Japan? (2022 Statistics)
• How long can I stay in Japan on a working holiday visa? 

Working Holiday Visa Japan Requirements and Application

Important things to know about working holiday in japan, change from working holiday visa to work visa, what is japan’s “working holiday” programme.

Based on bilateral agreements with partner countries and regions, the working holiday programme’s primary objective is to allow youths from Japan and other countries to spend their holidays in a foreign country whilst engaged in employment to supplement funds for their travel and stay . The aim is to deepen mutual understanding by providing opportunities to understand the culture and lifestyle of the destination country or region. 

As of November 2022, as published on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan’s website , 26 countries/regions have been granted working holidays to Japan. Since the first working holiday agreement between Australia and Japan in 1980, Japan has continued making agreements with other countries over the years. 

Each country / region has a maximum number of working holiday visas issued per year, aka yearly issue quota, so check carefully and apply early if you want to make the cut. 

Working Holiday in Japan Statistics (2022 Updated)

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ “2019 Visa Issuance Statistics (ビザ（査証）発給統計)” , a total of 18,955 people have obtained working holiday visas to Japan. South Korea, or the Republic of Korea, held the highest number at 5,903, followed by Taiwan with 4,707 people, indicative of its high popularity among neighbouring countries. More than 1,000 people from Australia, the United Kingdom and France have obtained working holiday visas to Japan. Although not as many as the top 2 countries, it seems that working holidays in Japan are relatively popular in English-speaking countries and Europe. 

Due to the pandemic that hit Japan and the rest of the world, the number of working holiday visas issued in 2020 and 2021 were low. In 2020, less by around 15,000, only 3,715 working holiday visas were issued. Whereas in 2021, the numbers dropped even lower to a mere 210 working holiday visas issued, 207 of which were to South Korea, 2 to Canada, and 1 to Australia. 

[Note] Statistics for 2022 will be made available in May, 2023. 

Working Holiday Period in Japan

The maximum period of stay in Japan on a working holiday is one (1) year . The period of stay cannot be extended . Those who want to work and travel in Japan should check their schedule in advance to make adjustments so they can stay for the maximum period. Many people take a long break (months or a year) from work.

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“Working Holiday” is a specific activity and categorised as a type of “designated activities (特定活動)” visa . A working holiday visa allows the visa holder to spend a certain period of time on vacation to learn about Japanese culture and lifestyles, or work to supplement living expenses. 

Here are the requirements for a working holiday visa in Japan: 

• Be a citizen or resident of a country / region that has a working holiday agreement with Japan
• Main intention is to spend a holiday in Japan for a certain period of time
• Must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application (restrictions vary by country)
• Cannot bring children or dependents
• Have a valid passport and a return ticket (enough funds for ticket purchase is also acceptable)
• Possession of funds necessary to maintain livelihood during the initial period of stay
• Be in good health
• Never been issued a Japanese working holiday visa before

Vist the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for a working holiday visa. Please note that the requirements differ slightly depending on the country / region, so inquire with your embassy or consulate beforehand. 

As we mentioned above, the number of times you can use the working holiday system is limited to 1, and the procedure may vary depending on your country of origin, so it is necessary to check in advance. Here are some additional points to note when visiting Japan on a working holiday.

Occupation Prohibitions

Yes, you can work whilst on a working holiday, but not in the entertainment industries . Jobs related to entertainment business include snack bars, host/hostess clubs , and pachinko parlours . 

Since the main purpose of the working holiday visa is to travel in Japan and learn about Japanese culture and lifestyle, with working being an incidental activity to support that purpose, there are no restrictions on work type other than prohibition of entertainment industries. There is no restriction on working hours unlike international students with status of residence “student (留学)”, so you can freely choose working hours, employment type, occupation, etc. 

Working holidays can only be done once per country . In other words, people who have come to Japan on a working holiday visa before cannot do so again. On their next visit to Japan, it must be on a different type of visa or status of residence. 

Working holidays are the only type of visa that allows you to stay in Japan for up to 1 year with almost no work restrictions. Therefore, schedule it carefully to make the most of it. After returning from Japan, it is possible to go to a different country on a working holiday visa, provided your home country has a bilateral agreement. 

Did you know that depending on the country of origin, it is possible to change to a working visa after coming to Japan on a working holiday ? Countries that are possible to do this include Australia, Canada, and South Korea . Applications need to be submitted 3 months before the working holiday visa expires , so prepare in advance and schedule properly.

As for Taiwan, France, the United Kingdom, etc. countries, working visa holders must return to their home countries after the period of stay ends. If you want to return to Japan to work, you will need to use the regular work visa route and seek visa sponsorship in which your employer will apply for a “Certificate of Eligibility” on your behalf. Or, if you simply want to come to Japan on vacation, then a Japan short-term stay tourist visa (unless you are from a visa-exempt country) . 

A working holiday visa is a great option for those interested to travel and work in Japan. Some important things to keep in mind about this programme is that you can only use it once per country, only 26 countries / regions have agreements with Japan, and there are age and other restrictions, so check the conditions beforehand and prepare accordingly. With Japan reopening and border measures loosening, take the opportunity to apply for a Japanese working holiday visa and come to Japan in 2023! 

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Japan Solved

Work Employment Visa In Japan: Explained      

Japan’s dynamic economy and advanced technological landscape make it a coveted destination for professionals worldwide. Looking to travel Japan for work? Worry not! We’ve got you covered!

Securing a work or employment visa is the first step towards realizing your career aspirations in this innovative country. This article aims to simplify the process, offering a detailed guide on how to navigate the complexities of Japanese work visa requirements and application procedures.

Let’s dive in!

Long-Term Visa Types For Working In Japan

Foreigners wishing to enter Japan for a long-term period (exceeding 90 days ) or for activities other than those permitted under the status of a Temporary Visitor will require any of the multiple visa types. 

Multiple visa types are as follows:

• Diplomatic visa
• Official visa 
• Working visa 
• General visa
• Specified visa 

Foreigners who enter Japan with the purpose of taking up paid employment need a Japan Work Visa. 

There are three types of Work Visas for Japan: 

• Japan Work Visa: It is issued for a number of professions, such as a professor or an artist.
• Japan Highly Skilled Professional Visa: It is issued through a point-based system and offers a more extended stay and more benefits than a regular Work Visa.
• Japan Working Holiday Visa: It is issued to nationals of countries with a working holiday agreement with Japan.
• Intra-Company Transferee Visa: Foreign nationals currently working for an organization outside Japan and will be transferred to that organization’s branch in Japan can apply to travel and reside in Japan.

Several countries have a working holiday visa agreement with Japan, and they are as follows:

• South Korea

It is important to note that the requirements and application process may vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin. 

Purpose Of Long-Stay Visa Types For Working In Japan

These are primarily long-term visas for employment, education, training, and long-term residence. 

The regular Japan Work Visa is issued for:

• Employment: If you already have a job offer in Japan.
• Self-Employment: If you wish to establish a business in Japan or to work as a freelancer.
• Jobseeker : If you wish to look for a job while in Japan.
• Professor: University professor, assistant professor, assistant, etc.
• Artists: Composers, songwriters, artists, sculptors, craftspeople, photographers, etc.
• Religious activities: Religious people such as monks, bishops, missionaries, etc.
• Journalists: Newspaper journalists, magazine journalists, editors, news cameramen, announcers, etc.
• Business manager: Company presidents, directors, etc.
• Legal/Accounting Services: Attorneys, judicial scriveners, public accountants, tax accountants, etc., certified in Japan.
• Medical services: Physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, etc., certified in Japan.
• Researcher: Researchers, investigators, etc. at research institutes, etc.
• Instructor : Teachers, etc., at elementary schools, intermediate schools, and high schools.
• Engineer/Specialist in humanities/International services : Scientific engineers, IT engineers, foreign language teachers, interpreters, copywriters, designers, etc.
• Intra-company transfe ree: People transferred to the Japanese branch (head office of the same company), etc.
• Nursing care : Certified care worker.
• Entertainers: Musicians, actors, singers, dancers, sportspeople, models, etc.
• Skilled labor : Chefs specializing in the food of a foreign country, animal trainers, pilots, sports trainers, sommeliers, etc.
• Specified skilled worker : Work-ready foreign nationals with expertise and skills in specific industrial fields.
• Technical intern training : Technical intern.

How To Apply For A Work Visa In Japan?

One requires a sponsor in Japan (most likely the employer) to get a work visa in Japan. The sponsor has to apply for the Certificate of Eligibility on behalf of the employee at the local immigration office . 

It takes at least three months for the certificate to be issued, and is valid for three months .

Once the COE is issued, one can apply for a Japanese work visa. However, the documents for the visa application may vary for different types of visas. 

Employees must submit a points calculation based on their skills for a specified skills visa. To be eligible for the visa, the applicant must have a score of more than 70 . 

The employer must also have some required documents for the visa application process. 

The requirements include: 

• A letter of guarantee
• An official invitation letter is issued to the candidate
• A list of visa applicants 
• Essential details of your company 
• A detailed itinerary in Japan

Remember that additional documents may be required.

Documents Required For Japanese Work Visa

When you apply for a Japan Work Visa, you have to submit the following supporting documents:

• The Certificate of Eligibility.
• Japan work visa application form, completed and signed. You can download a copy of the application form from the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
• Your valid passport, along with photocopies of it.
• Passport-size pictures, 4cm x 3cm dimensions, taken within the last three months , with a plain white background without any patterns and shadows.
• Position in the company/organization, salary, and the duration of the work.
• Documents attesting to your previous academic and professional history
• Documents related to the receiving company, such as company registration, statement of profit and loss, etc.

Remember that depending on your profession, you may be asked to present any additional documents that the Japanese Embassy or Consulate requests.

For instance, as follows:

• For Artists:  Any documents that show your artistic achievements .
• For Religious Workers: Documents that show the details of the religious organization sending you to Japan and the details of the receiving Japanese organization. You must also bring documents attesting to your religious position and career.
• For Researchers: Documents related to the receiving organization, Academic and professional qualifications.
• For Instructors Or Teachers: Documents related to the receiving organization, Academic qualifications, or an educational license .
• For Intra-Company Transferees:  Documents attesting to the relationship between the two offices/companies.

Where To Apply For A Japanese Work Visa?

You may submit your visa application at the nearest Japanese consulate or embassy in one of four ways:

• By writing a proxy letter and sending a representative to the Japanese consulate.
• Via an accredited travel agent approved by the Japanese consulate.
• Via the JAPAN eVISA website.

Depending on the circumstances in the foreign national’s home country or region, you may need to submit your documents in person or through an accredited travel agent.

You may also need to return for an interview or provide additional documents at the consulate’s request.

Processing Time For The Work Visa

The application processing time for a standard work visa COE case submitted in Tokyo recently takes about 2 to 5 months from the application date for a smooth standard case. 

The processing time is usually shorter for cases where the sponsoring entity in Japan is a large or listed corporation (around 2 to 4 weeks ) and cases utilizing the Highly Skilled Professional Visa Option (around 4 to 6 weeks ).

The processing time for the actual Japan Work Visa is 5 to 10 working days , depending on the specific office you apply to.

The time required from visa application to visa issuance is 5 working days from the day following the date of receipt, provided that everything is fine with the application’s content.

What Is The Cost Of Obtaining A Japanese Work Visa?

Japanese work visa fees vary depending on the visa type, the applicant’s nationality, and whether it’s a single or multiple-entry visa. 

A single-entry work visa generally costs about ¥‎3,000 , while a multiple-entry visa costs roughly ¥6,000 .

Applicants only pay the visa fee if the application is approved and must pay it in cash. 

However, if you apply for an eVISA via the JAPAN eVISA website, online payment by credit card is available for select countries and regions.

Arriving In Japan On A Work Visa

When arriving in Japan on a work visa, foreign nationals are required to present certain documents to the immigration authorities. 

The specific documents required may vary depending on the type of visa and the individual circumstances of the applicant.

The following are the general documents required when arriving in Japan on a work visa:

• A valid passport.
• A Japan Work Visa.
• A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is issued by a regional immigration authority under the jurisdiction of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
• A completed and signed Japan Work Visa Application Form.
• Contract with the employer, letter of appointment, invitation letter, or any other documents to prove the activities, position, salary, period the applicant will need to stay in Japan, etc.
• Registry Certificate of the company that employs the applicant in Japan.
• Passport-size pictures, 4cm x 3cm , taken within the last three months, plain white background, without any patterns and shadows.
• Documents attesting to the relationship between the two offices/companies for intra-company transferees.
• The Japanese Embassy or Consulate requests any additional documents, depending on the profession.

It is important to note that the requirements may vary depending on the specific office in which the application is submitted, the type of visa, and the time of year. 

It is recommended to check with the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate for specific information on the application process and requirements for a Japan Work Visa.

Securing your work visa in Japan is more than just a bureaucratic step; it’s the gateway to a world of professional opportunities and personal growth in a culturally rich environment.

With the insights from this guide, you’re now equipped to embark on this exciting journey with clarity and confidence. Your dream career in Japan is now within reach, and it all starts with the right visa.

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in following:

• Job Seeker Visa In Japan
• Types Of Visas In Japan
• Income Tax Brackets In Japan

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How to Travel, Work, and Study in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa

Whether you’re interested in exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage, indulging in its delicious cuisine, or simply soaking up the local way of life, you’ll find that Japan has something to offer to everyone. Thanks to Japan’s Working Holiday Visa program, you can have a taste of what’s living and working in Japan like without needing to commit to a full-time job, join a university course, or have a visa sponsor.  

Every year, over 15,000 people come to Japan as part of the country’s Working Holiday Visa program.  This program represents a dream come true for many young people interested in discovering a different and vibrant culture, whether it be exploring Tokyo or experiencing the quiet serenity of the Japanese countryside.

If you want to come to Japan on a Working Holiday Visa, this article will guide you on the main things you need to know to get this visa, including the requirements you need to fulfill, as well as useful information on how to find a job, housing, and other key essentials to start your life in Japan. 

What’s a Working Holiday Visa in Japan? 

Let’s start with some basics—according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the  Working Holiday Visa is “intended to make it possible for the youth of Japan and its partner countries/regions to enter each country/region primarily for the purpose of spending  holidays while allowing them to engage in employment as an incidental activity of their holidays for the purpose of supplementing their travel funds.”

The main keyword here is incidental activity and supplementing travel funds. In other words, while you can engage in paid activities while in the country, the main purpose of this visa is for you to explore the country and enjoy its culture. A working holiday in Japan is designed for foreigners who want to have fun in Japan while they do part-time or freelance to supplement their day-to-day expenses. 

Working holiday programs are bilateral agreements Japan made with specific countries, in which Japanese people can work in that country under the same visa type, too. The Working Holiday Program was first launched in 1980, with Australia being the first country to benefit from it. As of 2023, the program has been expanded to 26 countries and regions. Every year, about 15,000 individuals benefit from it, according to Japan’s Foreign  Ministry. 

For more reference, head to the  working holiday page on MOFA Japan’s website .

Am I Eligible for a Working Holiday Visa in Japan?

The Working Holiday Visa allows you to work in Japan during the duration of your visa to supplement your travels in the country. You don’t need a sponsor to apply and can do it directly from your home country. However, you can only apply if you have a passport from one of the 26 listed countries that take part in this program. 

 As of 2023, here is the updated list, as divulged by the Foreign Ministry of Japan: 

• Australia 
• New Zealand 
• Canada 
• Denmark 
• France 
• Germany 
• Ireland 
• Norway 
• South Korea 
• United Kingdom 
• Hong Kong SAR 
• Taiwan 
• Portugal 
• Poland 
• Slovakia 
• Austria 
• Hungary 
• Spain 
• Argentina 
• Chile 
• Iceland 
• Czech 
• Lithuania 
• Sweden 
• Estonia 

Also, there are a few other preconditions . First, you must be between 18 and 30 years of age, both inclusive, at the visa application time. For Australia, Canada, and the Republic of Korea, an applicant should be between 18 and 25 years of age, except in those cases where the competent authorities of Japan agree to extend the age limitation to 30 years. If you are from  Iceland, you can only apply between 18 and 26 years of age.

You can’t come accompanied by children or other dependents. This means you can’t sponsor your spouse or family to come to Japan.

Next, you must present a return travel ticket or sufficient funds to purchase such a ticket. The other thing would be needing to prove to have enough funds to support your stay in the country.

 Finally, the last one might sound obvious, but you have to be in good health. 

How to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa in Japan? 

To apply, you need to directly contact the Embassy or Japan’s Consulate in your country.  In most cases, you must apply in person from your country of citizenship. Even though, there are some differences between countries, here is some basic documentation that you need to prepare: 

• A copy of your passport. 
• A completed Visa Application form was obtained from Japan’s Embassy in your country.
• Flight details and proposed itinerary/schedule in Japan. 
• A statement of purpose. 
• Proof of good health and proof of funds. 
• Your updated resume. 

Do I Need a Job to Go to Japan?

No, you don’t need to have a job before applying for this visa—you can start finding employment once arrive in Japan. Keep in mind, however, that you are “strictly prohibited from working at bars, cabarets, nightclubs, gambling establishments, and other premises affecting public morals in Japan,” according to the Foreign Ministry. If you happen to be found engaging in such activities, you could be deported back to your home country, so,  better to follow the rules.  

The good news is besides these prohibited occupations, you are pretty much free to engage in all other types of jobs, which gives you great flexibility to follow your goals and build up your CV while working in Japan. Also, there’s no limit to the number of hours you can work, and you can choose to work part-time or even full-time in Japan.

What You Can Do in Japan During Working Holidays

The purpose of a Working Holiday visa is for you to have a great time in Japan while doing some side hustle to support this. While applying for this visa, you will need to provide an outline of your intended activities. This should be detailed enough for you to show that you’re truly intending on exploring Japan — visiting onsen towns , skiing in Hokkaido, or sightseeing in Okinawa. 

At the same time, you can make it vague enough to allow for flexibility in your travel plans. You don’t need to show a rundown of your day-to-day schedule!

1. Travel Around Japan

The main purpose of this visa is technically still traveling, so do travel as much as you can and as your budget allows! After all, Japan has plenty to offer, from North to South. 

Most people come to Japan under a Working Holiday visa so they could both work and travel with relative ease. 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, so you can technically work full-time in Japan.

3. Internship

If you are interested in pursuing an internship in Japan, it’s important to research different programs and companies, as well as prepare your application materials, such as a strong resume and cover letter. With dedication and effort, an internship in Japan can be a truly rewarding experience. A lot of big, international companies in Japan have amazing internship programs.

4. Study Japanese

Studying Japanese is the ultimate way to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Japan! Not only will it help you communicate with the locals and make the most of your working holiday, but it’ll also open doors to exciting new experiences and adventures.

If you are only visiting Tokyo for a few months, it may be hard to find a language school to study Japanese with due to rigid start and finish dates

Coto Academy is the perfect place for foreigners who want to come to Japan on a working holiday visa to learn the language and culture of this fascinating country. You will not only improve your language skills but will also gain a deeper understanding of the customs and traditions of Japan, making your experience in the country more enriching and enjoyable.

How Long Can I Stay in Japan Under a Working Holiday Visa? 

All Working Holiday Visas in Japan are up to one year. Citizens of Australia, Canada, and  New Zealand must, however, extend their visas after six months.  

In principle, you cannot review your Working Holiday Visa after one year. However, you could apply to change your visa into a working visa given certain conditions. The final decision will ultimately depend on the Japanese Immigration Bureau. It’s not uncommon for many foreigners to upstart their Japanese life under a Holiday Working visa to then change to another type of visa, such as a working visa or other types.

For more information, it is better to consult with the local immigration office once in Japan. 

Life in Japan with a Working Holiday Visa

Accommodation in japan.

Finding a place to rent in Japan can be challenging, especially if you are new to the country and don’t have a local support system. Yet, there are several options available to those living in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa.  

One popular option is to use a real estate agency, which can help you find a suitable apartment or house based on your needs and budget. Another option is looking for a place through online listings, such as Suumo or Craigslist. Finding housing through local contacts, such as friends, acquaintances, or language exchange partners, is also possible. 

To simplify your house-hunting experience, share houses are probably your best option. Besides that, there are great short-term accommodations that are both foreign and English-friendly.

Mobile Number and Bank Account

Besides housing and a job, there are a few other essential things you need to solve to start your new Japanese life well. You probably need a local phone number, an Internet connection, a Japanese bank account, and a public transportation card.  

Getting a phone and internet connection in Japan is relatively straightforward. Besides the major mobile phone companies such as  NTT Docomo, Au, and SoftBank, there are also newer firms such as Rakuten Mobile and Line Mobile, which offer cheaper plans. Check the different options to find the one that suits you better.  

You can sign up for a plan online or in person at the store, and most companies will require a Japanese address and proof of identity. It’s important to carefully consider your needs and budget before choosing a plan, as some companies may charge extra for international roaming or data usage.  

Opening a bank account in Japa n is another critical step, as it will allow you to manage your finances and, most importantly, get paid in the country in local currency. Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho are among the major Japanese banks, although other financial institutions such as SBI  Shinsei Bank are popular among foreigners for being more expedited in their processes.  

Once again, you need to check different options to find the one that fits you better

Transportation

Getting your Suica Card or Pasmo Card, Japan’s main prepaid cards that allow you to pay for your subway, buses, trains, and even groceries at most konbini around the country (and coffees at Starbucks) is perhaps the most straightforward process. 

To obtain one of those cards, simply go to one subway or train station and look for the ticket vending machine. Find the Suica or Pasmo option on the ticket machine’s menu,  and select it. Choose the amount of money you wish to load, with a minimum of 2,000 yen, insert the cash, and wait for the card to be delivered to you almost instantly. 

If you are wondering about the differences between the Suica and the Pasmo, or wish to know more about other available public transportation cards, this article can help you out. Spoiler—the main difference between Suica and Pasmo is that they are provided and managed by different companies, yet they are quite equal in terms of coverage.

Staying in Japan After a Working Holiday Visa

So you have obtained your Working Holiday visa. You might find yourself enjoying your life in Japan and starting to wonder if you can stay in Japan to settle here. Would this be possible?

The short answer is yes! The Working Holiday visa is not intended for long-term stays. In fact, it’s designed for people who “intend to leave Japan at the end of their stay.”

However, you can continue living in Japan after your visa expires by changing your visa status. Converting to a working visa (such as a humanities visa) is a possible and very common case among foreigners.

You will have to find a company that is willing to sponsor you. The good news is that this might be easier because of the added convenience of already living in Japan. If you’re already working for a company, either part-time or full-time, it’s good to communicate your desire to continue working under a sponsored working visa at least 2-3 months before your Working Holiday visa expires.

If you haven’t worked yet, you might be wondering how to find a  good job in Japan . Japan’s local labor market can be broadly divided into two main categories: The mid-career job market, and the fresh graduate job market. Understanding this difference can be essential to define your job-hunting strategy. 

To look for a job in Japan, you can try different online portals for job hunting , or attend one of the many job fairs in different cities. Here are a few English-language boards where you can find several job openings. 

• LinkedIn 
• Daijob 
• Jobs in Japan 
• Work Japan 
• Japandev 
• Tokyodev 

Those who feel confident with their Japanese level can also try to explore Japanese-only online job boards.

Job fairs are other good options. Among them, I recommend the CFN Tokyo Career Forum, held in June and December, and the Daijob Career Fair, held in February, March,  and July. Last but not least, you can also try to rely upon a recruiting agency. These agencies are usually free of charge for the job seeker, although recruiters are primarily active in the mid-career job market. 

Check out our article about  obtaining a Japan work visa!

What’s so great about the Working Holiday visa if you’re eligible) is that it offers more flexibility. You can get a full-time job along the way, learn Japanese, or stick to traveling around the country when you want. While this isn’t for everyone — particularly those who want to come to Japan with more stability and support — it’s certainly the perfect option if you’re looking for an adventure!

If you want to take Japanese language lessons on your working holiday schedule, check out the courses at Coto Academy! You do not need a student visa to study Japanese with us on a short-term basis – and we can accommodate a start date that fits your schedule. We also offer a free course consultation.

Head to this page to view our booking calendar. Good luck!

What is a working holiday visa?

A working holiday visa is a special visa for young people between the age of 18 and 30 (25 in the case of some countries), to stay in Japan for up to one year.

Can you work part-time or full time in Japan under a working holiday visa?

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, so you can technically work full-time in Japan.

Can you extend your working holiday visa?

The Working Holiday visa is not intended for long-term stays and is only designed for a stay up to one year. However, you can continue living in Japan after your visa expires by changing your visa status. Converting to a working visa (such as a humanities visa) is a possible and very common case among foreigners.

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Home » Asia » Japan » Everything You Need to Know about Working Holidays in Japan | 2024

Everything You Need to Know about Working Holidays in Japan | 2024

Working holidays abroad are a dream scenario for travel addicts. Normally our mind jumps to well-known destinations such as Australia and New Zealand. Did you know about working holidays in Japan?

You can fulfill that life-long dream of traveling around Japan long-term, with the added bonus of not depleting your hard-earned cash!

Japan is known worldwide for its amazing culture, jaw-dropping landscapes, next-level cities, and of course, its mouth-watering cuisine. Imagine spending a year abroad, chowing down on authentic Katsu, and admiring the cherry blossoms while they’re in season.

You’ll not only have the time of your life (this I can guarantee) but you’ll make life-long friends, learn about a new culture like never before, and probably learn some valuable life skills while you’re at it too.

If this   sounds like something you’d be up for, then keep on reading. We’ve got an article choc-full of tips, handy bits of info, and even options for some great working holidays.

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Taking a Working Holiday in Japan 

Top 5 tips for a working holiday in japan, japan working holiday visas , insurance for a working holiday in japan, working holiday in japan budget, earning money on a working holiday visa, pre-planned working holiday jobs with global work and travel, diy working holiday in japan, final thoughts .

Japan has a working holiday agreement with several countries. If you’re a citizen of one of the lucky nations then rejoice, because the process is easy as matcha cream pie, and you can find yourself with sexy travel job whilst being fully immersed in Japanese culture!

More often than not, we limit ourselves by thinking that working holidays are only for gap year students or new graduates. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. If you’re tired of your mundane job or just want a little breather for a year, then taking this kind of trip could be just the ticket.  Grown up gap years are becoming more and more popular.

Working holidays abroad are an amazing choice for people who want to experience a country long-term, but are a bit strapped for cash to simply lounge around for an easy gap year in Japan (a girl can dream). The beauty of this kind of trip is that you’ll be making money as you go , so you don’t have to worry about having mega savings in the bank. 

Best of all, your weekend and days off will be spent doing all the fun stuff. Imagine heading to the mountains for a short ski trip over winter, or relaxing in a Japanese onsen? Yes, yes, there will be some serious work going on too, but hey, if you could go away for up to a year, isn’t it worth it? 

What kind of work could you be doing? Well, there are loads of opportunities available with only a small number of prohibited jobs. The most popular working holiday jobs are low-skill work such as waiting tables in a restaurant, working in sales, or in the hospitality industry. But teaching English in Japan is also very common. Some people even use their time to focus on learning Japanese, enrolling in lessons and courses. 

This may all seem like a bit much, taking the leap and moving abroad can be a bit scary after all. But to ease your anxiety, there are some fab agencies out there to hold your hand throughout the entire process.

Go with Worldpackers

Worldpackers is an online company that connects travelers with foreign volunteer hosts who then work in exchange for housing . That being said, Worldpackers does do more than just connect volunteers to hosts. It offers a plethora of additional resources, a great support network, a blogging platform for collaboration, and a whole lot more.

Sounds pretty rad, right? But wait, there’s more!

According to their mission statement, Worldpackers is “ a community based on collaboration and honest relationships that make travel more accessible to those seeking a profound cultural experience. ” They value  environmentalism ,  authenticity ,  growth  and  working together  above all else and make a great effort to provide the best experience possible.

And even better – Broke Backpacker readers get a special discount of $10 ! When you use our special hookup, it makes even more sense to pay. Just use this Worldpackers discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and membership is discounted from $49 a year to $39.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Go with Global Work and Travel

Here at The Broke Backpacker, we are all about Global Work and Travel . These guys ROCK! They are really trustworthy, truly care about your experience, and will give you assistance to make sure your working holiday in Japan is top-notch! 

It’s got a bit of a different approach than Worldpackers, but it offers JUST as many amazing opportunities for travellers.

It provides working holidays, teaching abroad, volunteering, au pair and student internship packages . On top of that, the agency plans, sorts and assists with visa requirements, connections to local businesses, accommodation search and job interviews.

Most products even come with flights and basic medical insurance, a 24/7 Emergency line and payment plans.

Yes! You’re really really thinking about leaving it all behind and setting up in Japan for a while! What else do you need to know? Here are my 5 top tips to see you through: 

• Know the duration of your stay. It’s a good idea to know roughly how long you plan on being in the country. If you only have time for a couple of months, a tourist visa will be a better fit for you, especially since in Japan, you will struggle to find short-term jobs. Citizens of certain countries have the option to extend their stay after an initial 6-month period.
• Getting the correct visa. If you are some of the lucky countries that are a part of the Japan working holiday visa programme, then applying for this visa is THE best choice by far – unless you are only going for a short while. If you are not eligible, you could consider teaching English in Japan using a work visa, studying on a student visa and working part-time, or just visiting Japan on a tourist visa. 
• Finding accommodation. Accommodation in Japan , especially Tokyo can get pretty pricey. For some types of jobs such as teaching or working in a ski resort, you may get assistance with finding discounted accommodation, but otherwise, the search will fall to you. A great option to save on housing costs is to think about shared houses. These are quite popular in Japan amongst young people (both locals and foreigners). Tokyo Share House is a great place to look, but bear in mind that some of these houses can have up to 30 people living in them! 
• Have a rough plan. Unlike the road trip culture of an Australia or even New Zealand working holidays , you will find it difficult to find short-term employment in Japan. If you want to use your Japan working holiday visa to explore the country, I’d recommend shooting for no more than four places/employers within a year. 
• Exploring the country in your free time. You didn’t come all the way to Japan just to stick to one area. You came to explore, and by far the best way of doing that is by train. Japan is one of the few countries worldwide that have bullet trains between major cities – these trains are ridiculously fast, with some clocking up speeds of up to 320 kilometers an hour! The Japan rail network is extensive with high speed, and local trains. I really recommend getting the Japan Rail Pass if you’re planning to travel around the country a bit. This pass is only available to non-Japanese passport holders and will save you a load of money.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

You’ve probably gathered by now that, like most working holidays abroad, there are conditions when looking to move to Japan on this kind of visa. The country has a working holiday agreement with several countries, with some general criteria, although some countries have slightly different rules. The countries eligible are Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, Chile, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Lithuania, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.

As well as being a citizen from one of these countries, you’ll also need to be aged between 18 and 30 years old, although for Australia, Canada, and the Republic of Korea, the age cap is 25. The age limit for Icelandic citizens is capped at 26 years old. To apply for the visa, you must have no dependents or children coming with you, have a valid passport, a return ticket or funds to purchase a return ticket, reasonable funds to support you during your initial stay, be in “good health”, and have not been previously issued this visa. 

The reasonable funds considered “necessary” by the Japanese government depend on your home country, so you may want to double-check with your local embassy. However, a good ballpark figure is between 288,000 – 460,000 JPY (2,500 – 4,000 USD) PLUS however much you need to buy a ticket home. This is a minimum, however, and saving a bit extra never hurts! 

There are limits as to how many visas are issued each year for each country. These are 10,000 (Taiwan), 6,500 (Canada), 1,500 (France and Hong Kong), 500 (Poland and Spain), 400 (Ireland, Slovakia, Czech Republic), 200 (Austria, Argentina, Chile, Hungary), 100 (Lithuania), 30 (Iceland), and no limits (Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Portugal). This is why getting your application in early is a good shout, the spots will fill up quickly! 

It should be noted that while these travelers are legally allowed to do most jobs, they are strictly prohibited from working in bars, nightclubs, gambling establishments, and cabarets. These types of jobs are said to affect public morals in Japan, and individuals found working in these kinds of jobs will be seen to have violated their visa agreement and be deported. 

To apply for your Japan working holiday visa, you need to submit your visa form , valid passport with photocopies, passport photos, proof of funds via bank statements that were issued within the last month, your return flight ticket (or one-way ticket as long as you show you can afford another one later on), resume/CV, a letter addressed to the Japanese Embassy or Consulate stating why you want to visit Japan, a schedule of your stay with cities, what kind of work you want to do, and any other activities. This needs to be done to the embassy or consulate of your home country. 

PHEW. That was a LOT. If you’re still raring to go then by all means… have at it! If you want a little assistance with all that , you’ll be happy to hear that there are services that help you sort everything out. Thank GOD. Visa First are a good option if you wanna sit back a little and just do all the fun bits (like planning your itinerary!), or Global Work and Travel will take care of everything . 

I personally always get a Japan travel insurance – no matter if it’s for a short trip, a long backpacking stint, or moving for a while. It’s helped me out more than a few times, and I’d hate to think of anyone finding themselves in a less than ideal situation without it!

We love WorldNomads for anyone who’s not sure of which company to go with. Everything is super easy to navigate, understand, PLUS they cover all your typical working holiday abroad activities. It’s a winner! 

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Ouch. Time to talk about the dreaded figures. Although we don’t all like to budget and plan (guilty), this is a really important step of any trip. As mentioned earlier, to secure a Japan working holiday visa you will need to have enough money to cover your expenses at the beginning of your trip, and enough funds to buy an outbound flight if you didn’t purchase a return ticket. This is a big expense but don’t let it deter you, the extra cushion is to make sure YOU have the best time without any hiccups should something go wrong. 

No doubt if you dream of living it up in Tokyo and want to live city life to the max, you could end up maxing out your bank account. On the other end of the spectrum, life in rural parts of Japan or even smaller cities is considerably less expensive and you’ll be more likely to enjoy the finer things in life! To compare Tokyo and Akita (a modest-sized city), rent in a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center, transport, food, and activities will cost you around 2,000 USD in Tokyo or 1,100 USD in Akita. 

If you are considering working in the very rural parts of Japan, bear in mind that in many off-the-beaten-path places, the locals don’t speak English, you’ll need some basic Japanese under your belt to a) get a job and b) have the best time possible.

The cost of living in Japan varies, but be sure you have an idea so you have enough money.

The Japan working holiday visa is great and diverse! You could find yourself doing all kinds of jobs like working in a restaurant, being an au pair for a local family, light factory work, or sales. Legally, most jobs are allowed, with part-time (28 hours per week) or full-time (40 hours per week) available. In Tokyo, you would typically be paid between 890-1,500 JPY an hour, but this will vary for other cities, with lower living costs reflecting lower salaries. 

Some of the paperwork you’ll have to arrange on arrival are things such as registering as a resident, getting a tax number, setting up a bank account (see below), and probably getting a local phone number and contract. After that’s all set, it’s job-hunting time! Oh, be sure to get a Japan travel adapter too as the outlets are different here!

Even though you will be living and working in Japan, you will still technically be considered a non-resident under the income tax act. This means that you will be taxed at 20.42% on all your earnings. Your employer will deduct this from your salary each month so you don’t have to worry about it. One thing that really sucks is that there is no scheme or means by which you can claim back your tax after you leave. So you can kiss that hard-earned cash goodbye for good *cries*. 

Employers in Japan are very very unlikely to pay your salary into your foreign bank account. This means that you will have to set up a local Japanese bank account in order to get paid. There are only a handful of banks that will open accounts for foreigners so soon into their stay. A few of these are JP Bank, Shinsei Bank, and Rakuten Bank. However, you may want to do some extra research as some of these banks don’t allow foreign transfers into your local bank for the first six months. For this reason, definitely bring a credit or debit card from home, but be mindful of ATM fees! 

If you’re able to transfer money into your local account straight away, or if after 6 months you feel the need to, I advise against doing a direct bank transfer (HELLO extortionate fees) and using an international money transfer service instead! Wise (A.K.A.Transferwise) gives you great rates, as does Payoneer.

If you’re not big into planning and would rather have someone handle all of that for you, then have no fear, as there are some fantastic agencies and companies out there that do just that. As I mentioned earlier, Global Work and Travel are awesome. They have a range of cool working holiday programmes to choose from, will help with visas, setting up your new life, and more!

The main kind of jobs for those on a working holiday are teaching, hospitality work in hotels or ski resorts, trying your hand at some farm work, and many others. Here is our favourite.

Teaching in Japan

For working holidays, teaching English is a top choice and doesn’t need much explanation. But there are some requirements you’ll have to meet. Lucky for you Global Work and Travel is offering the full package for anyone who wants to teach English on their working holiday in Japan. You will need to have a Bachelor’s degree in any subject, and an international teaching accreditation is included in the programme. 

Once you’ve touched down in Japan as a newly qualified ESL teacher, you’ll attend some interviews, and one of the GWaT partner teaching organizations will offer you a paid teaching position. Some schools may require you to do a two-week training course before heading off to your new placement.

Most of the time, you will be provided with shared accommodation along with two to three other teachers. One of the most attractive things about teaching English in Japan is the BALLER salary. English teachers are in high demand and the potential salary is between 2,100 – 2,300 USD a month. 

It is possible to find a teaching job alone, without assistance, but 80% of jobs need you to be IN the country first, so be prepared to head to some interviews and do some paperwork. There are some great websites for finding teaching jobs, but it is a competitive market so many people prefer to go with agencies. 

The GWaT working holiday programme not only offers job interviews with prospective schools, but you’ll also have a dedicated trip coordinator who will hold your hand, so to speak, throughout the whole process. Their pre-departure plan will also act as a comprehensive guide not only about what to expect from your trip, but about Japan too. They even offer visa guidance so you don’t need to get all worked up about the requirements, paperwork, etc. Amazing!

If you don’t enjoy partaking in anything pre-planned, and prefer to do things your own way at your own pace, the good news is that you can do it! It is the ideal situation for any of you adventurous folks who wanna touch down without a concrete plan and just wing it!

You will have to take responsibility for your own visa, flights, local bank account, paperwork, and maybe need to save a little extra – in case you don’t find your dream job right away. 

When DIY-ing it, the time of year you apply could affect your success. Applying in May, after the end of the last financial year is the best time. As I mentioned above, there may be a limit per country as to how many Japan working holiday visas they grant, so getting in nice and early gives you the best chance of being accepted.

Your best bet for finding a job is to do it on the ground. Employers will normally want to be sure of your visa, check you have a tax number, and a local bank account etc. before making a commitment to you. This website has a ton of part-time jobs (don’t be deterred that the website is in Japanese, as they specifically state they accept foreigners).

If you want to fill up your time with something a little different from the classic 9-5 job, sites like WWOOF, Worldpackers , and Workaway are fab options to find some unique experiences in exchange for accommodation and possible meals. They are a great way to immerse yourself in local culture as you could be living with a local family and working with local people.

I don’t know about you, but I am about ready to leave it all and start a new life abroad. As far as working holidays abroad go… Japan seems like the ideal place. You will be fully immersed in an incredible culture that will not only challenge you, but teach you a whole lot about yourself at the same time. 

I mean, spending ANY amount of time in Japan has got to be the dream, let alone up to a year. This would be the perfect opportunity to explore the country in-depth, from discovering the coral reefs of Okinawa to scouting out the best ramen houses in Tokyo. Not to mention all the incredible friends you’ll make. This could be fellow teachers in the local school you’re teaching at or other servers at the ski resort you’ve decided to spend the winter season working in. 

Whatever job you choose (whether DIY-ing it or going through a trusted agency), I am positive that you will have the most fantastic time ever. One thing to remember is to take lots of photos and take it all in, as this could be the best year of your life!

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Botschaft von Japan in Deutschland

Working Holiday Visum

For English click HERE

Häufig gestellte Fragen zum Working Holiday Visum   

Allgemeine Bedingungen:

• Anträge können nur von Personen mit deutschem Reisepass gestellt werden.
• Das Visum kann nur in Deutschland bei der japanischen Botschaft bzw. den japanischen Generalkonsulaten beantragt werden.
• Antragstellende sind zum Zeitpunkt der Antragstellung mindestens achtzehn (18) und höchstens dreißig (30 = bis vor dem 31. Geburtstag) Jahre alt.
• Antragstellende sind bisher noch nicht mit einem Working Holiday Visum nach Japan eingereist.
• Unterhaltsberechtigte Begleitpersonen (Ehepartner*in, Kinder) der Antragstellenden können kein zusätzliches Familienvisum erhalten.
• Das Hauptziel des Aufenthaltes ist „Ferien“ in Japan zu verbringen – mit der Option auf temporäre Nebenbeschäftigungen.

Für einen langfristigen reinen Sprachschul- oder Praktikumsaufenthalt beantragen Sie bitte das  entsprechende Visum .  

Erforderliche Unterlagen:

  Bitte stellen Sie den Antrag in dem für Ihren Wohnsitz zuständigen Konsulat oder Botschaft.   Für die Botschaft in Berlin gilt Folgendes:

  Bitte reichen Sie bei der Beantragung alle nicht im Original eingeforderten Unterlagen als Kopie (in DIN-A4 Format) ein. Die Antragsdokumente sollten grundsätzlich nicht getackert oder geheftet sein!  

• Gültiger Reisepass (Original und Kopie)
• Vollständig ausgefülltes Antragsformular mit Passfoto
• Reiseplan (Englisch oder Japanisch; es kann auch ein eigens erstelltes Format verwendet werden): Tragen Sie bitte so detailliert wie möglich in Stichpunkten Ihre vorläufigen Pläne für den Aufenthalt ein. Zählen Sie bitte Orte, die Sie bereisen wollen, auf sowie alle anderen Aktivitäten (Sprachschule, Arbeitsorte, Freiwilligenarbeit etc.), die Sie sehr wahrscheinlich  machen möchten. Zeiträume können in Monaten oder Jahreszeiten angegeben werden. Einträge, die lediglich "work", "travel", "sightseeing" o.ä. lauten, sind nicht akzeptabel.
• Lebenslauf (auf Englisch oder Japanisch; es kann auch ein eigens erstelltes Format verwendet werden)
• Einseitiges Motivationsschreiben (auf Englisch oder Japanisch)
• Flugticket : wenigstens Hinflug oder Hin- und Rückflug. Der Hinflug nach Japan kann dabei auch aus einem anderen Land als Deutschland erfolgen.
• Finanzierungsnachweis , z. Bsp. in Form eines aktuellen Kontoauszuges mit Name und Datum: mind. 2000 Euro bei Vorlage von Hin- und Rückflugticket; mind. 3000 Euro bei Vorlage nur vom Hinflugticket
• Versicherungsschein einer Auslandskrankenversicherung, gültig für Japan/ weltweit und über die über die gesamte Aufenthaltsdauer  ODER   die s chriftliche Verpflichtung für die Mitgliedschaft in der Nationalen Krankenkasse in Japan (Pledge)

Hinweis zur Krankenversicherung: Zur Beantragung des WH Visums ist nur einer der o.g. Nachweise über die Krankenversicherung notwendig. Seit Mai 2015 sind jedoch alle ausländischen Inhaber von Langzeitvisa verpflichtet, sich bei der Nationalen Krankenkasse in Japan zu versichern. In der Regel wird man dazu spätestens aufgefordert, wenn man sich beim lokalen Bürgeramt meldet. Bei einer bereits vorhandenen Auslandskrankenversicherung kann es daher zu einer „Doppelversicherung“ kommen. Generell wird aber eine Auslandskrankenversicherung in jedem Fall empfohlen, da die Nationale Krankenkasse nicht alle Kosten abdeckt.  

Weitere Hinweise:

Es dürfen keine Tätigkeiten, die unter das Gesetz zur Kontrolle und Verbesserung des Vergnügungs- und Unterhaltungsgewerbe fallen (z.B. Nachtclubs o.ä.) ausgeübt werden.   Dieses Programm richtet sich nicht an Personen, die hauptsächlich beabsichtigen einer Arbeit nachzugehen. Der primäre Zweck des Aufenthaltes sollte "Urlaub" in Japan sein. Demzufolge können sich Bewerber, die in erster Linie beabsichtigen in Japan zu arbeiten, nicht für dieses Visum bewerben.   Bitte bewerben Sie sich nur für dieses Visum, wenn Sie den Zweck des Programms verinnerlicht haben.

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Get job alerts, how to live in japan and work remotely for an overseas employer [2024 guide].

Updated January 19, 2024

Japan Dev Team

Japan Dev contributor

• Career Development

In today’s digital world, working remotely is becoming increasingly commonplace. In fact, it’s the norm for many of us who work in tech, be it partially or full-time.

In previous posts, I talked about companies in Japan that hire candidates from overseas , allowing them to work remotely , but what about working for an overseas company while you’re living in Japan as a foreigner?

Certainly, there are visa types that allow you to work in Japan if you have a contract here, but coming to Japan just to work remotely falls under more of a grey area. To pull this off, you'll need to be a bit creative.

This is why many foreign professionals who want to stay in Japan for a while consider the working holiday visa . It doesn’t involve a limitation on work hours, and it doesn’t limit your field of work, either. 

So, is the working holiday visa really the best way to go? Are there other visa types that might do the trick? I’ll answer all of these and more in today’s post.

First, let’s talk briefly about the distinct nature of the working holiday system.

In this article: 📝

All About Working Holiday Programs

Can i work remotely for a foreign company in japan with a working holiday visa, regarding taxes on foreign income while on a working holiday, other options to work remotely in japan for an overseas company, why work visas and the dependant visa won’t work, extending your stay on a working holiday visa, frequently asked questions on working remotely in japan.

Unlike other visa types that allow you to work in Japan as a foreigner, the working holiday visa is special in that it’s based on specific bilateral treaties between nations.

This means that the rules and regulations regarding the visa can change, depending on your country of origin and the specifics of the agreement it has made with Japan. 

The working holiday treaties are created to allow young individuals to experience and learn about partner countries’ cultures, broadening their horizons. Simply put, they’re designed to grant individuals the right to stay and travel in Japan while working for a maximum of twelve months.

An important point to keep in mind is that this visa type is for young individuals, which means between the ages of 18 and 30 for most countries. For some countries, however, the eligibility age is capped at 26 or 25 years.

As a natural implication of the unique nature of working holiday programs, the working holiday visa may not be available to nationals of all countries, as they require the existence of a prior agreement.

To be more specific, Japan currently has working holiday agreements with 29 countries. Each year, new treaties are signed with new nations to extend this list even further. For instance, 2023 brought Uruguay, Finland, and Latvia to the steadily growing list.

To check which countries are added to the list and the specific requirements for nationals of specific countries, you can check the official working holiday programs page on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

While it sounds good on paper at first glance, is the working holiday visa the perfect solution to working remotely in another country while staying in Japan? 

Let’s dig deeper.

As I already mentioned, the working holiday visa, unlike a regular work visa, is designated to help you experience the country and its culture. This is the main objective of this visa, and the working part is only secondary.

In simpler terms, the main reason the working holiday visa exists is that it allows you to finance your travels yourself while you’re on holiday .

This means that even if there are no work-hour limits, unlike with the student visa which only allows you to work for a certain number of hours, you’re still obligated to put holiday first, and treat your job as a means to support yourself financially.

So, the “no work hour limitation” rule is actually limited by this requirement, and you’re supposed to only work part-time or do minor freelance work while you travel. 

Speaking of limitations, another rule that limits the jobs you can work at is regarding jobs that may disrupt public morals, such as working at nightclubs.

All that being said, given that its main objective is to allow you to stay in Japan and travel/vacation, finding work isn’t among the working holiday visa requirements.

But if you choose to work remotely for a foreign company in Japan with a working holiday visa, there’s one big thing to consider – taxes.

A working holiday is part holiday and part working , enabling you to earn income. If you continue working remotely while on a working holiday visa instead of getting a mini job in Japan, the status of your earnings will be “foreign income.”

Naturally, this income will be subject to tax, however, it won’t be subject to your country of origin’s tax regulations. This is where it gets tricky.

During your stay in Japan, the authority responsible for taxing your earnings will be the Japanese Tax Authority. So, even if it’s possible to not get a part-time job in Japan and work remotely for your company, you’ll still face problems regarding your tax declarations.

As the visa granted to you isn’t a work visa, or a digital nomad visa which hasn’t yet been introduced, declaring your earnings from your job abroad will be quite tricky.

I’ll expand on this later below along with a few alternative solutions, but while we’re on the topic, here’s what you need to know about your tax responsibilities in Japan and your foreign income.

Taxes on Working Holiday and Foreign Income

Depending on whether you’re “selling labor”, i.e. you’re an employee, or working on a contractual basis as a freelancer, you’ll have to file differently.

If you’re providing paid labor as an employee, you will need to file an Article 172 Declaration the day before leaving Japan at the latest. You will be taxed at a rate of 20.42% on your earnings.

If you provide work on a contractual basis , i.e. as a freelancer, on the other hand, you’ll need to file a regular tax return in Japan. This means paying your taxes regularly as if you’re earning income in Japan.

In any case, your tax status depends heavily on your specific situation, so make sure to consult a professional accountant to be sure about your tax-related responsibilities.

Lastly, another point to keep in mind about taxes here is double taxation. If you are subject to double taxation in your home country, you may be able to receive “Foreign Tax Credit” (外国税額控除 / Gaikoku-zeigakukojo) for this, but this isn’t a guarantee and it can also be a bit of a hassle to get.

So, currently, it seems that those on a working holiday visa have to pay taxes in Japan in one way or another. Whether the introduction of a digital nomad visa will change this in the future is still up in the air.

The working holiday visa might not be what you’re looking for, but this isn’t to say that you’re out of options.

Those wondering, “Is there any way to work remotely in Japan for an overseas company using methods other than a working holiday visa?” should know that the answer is a yes . That said, these methods may prove to be trickier to deal with.

As I mentioned in my post on moving to Japan as a software developer , the main issue you’ll face is the visa. There are other options where this isn’t an issue, but they’re situational, like having a spousal visa.

While the working holiday visa can work for you with a few workarounds, you have to be careful when it comes to taxes.  This is why, in some cases, it may be best to apply for a different type of visa to work in Japan for an overseas company. 

Here are your options.

Short-Term Stay: The Tourist Visa is Remote Work-Friendly

If you plan on visiting Japan and continuing to work at your remote job during your stay, why not apply for a tourist visa instead? This is a common way to work while on vacation utilized by many foreign professionals.

Of course, a glaring downside of the tourist visa is that it allows for a much shorter stay, a maximum of 90 days, to be specific, whereas a working holiday visa allows staying up to a whole year. That said, this shorter stay ensures that you won’t have to deal with the Japanese tax system, as your earnings during your stay won’t be taxable by Japan’s tax authority.

The reason why working remotely while on a tourist visa is allowed is simple: it’s considered to be a temporary work activity that’s part of your work engagement abroad. As this is a part of daily life in today’s digital world and it’s normal for people to take care of business while on vacation, the tourist visa is perfect for you as long as you plan to stay less than 90 days.

Employer of Record Services (EORs): A Simple Workaround

If you’re a full-time employee in your country of origin and want to stay in Japan while continuing to work remotely, another option is using an EOR service.

Short for “Employer of Record”, EOR services act as a third party from Japan that employs you on your company’s behalf. 

You can use a company like Deel to do this. Essentially, the company will provide you with an employment contract in Japan, and even sponsor your visa. To do this, you need to have good communication with your employer, seeing as your employer has to be the one who applies to the EOR company for this.

Alternatively, the EOR company can also hire you as a freelancer, and bill your original company of employment as well.  In this case, you’ll have to handle taxes as a freelancer in Japan, so it will be the same basic process as with a work holiday visa.

The Intra-Company Transferee Visa

I have a detailed post on this already, but the intra-company transferee visa can be another good option that allows you to continue working remotely while you stay in Japan.

Essentially, this visa is issued to employees of overseas companies who are transferring to a Japanese office or branch of said company. 

Of course, this visa is only an option if you’re an employee of a global company that has operations in Japan, such as large corporations like Google or Indeed . This may not be a reality for everyone, but if you play the long game, you may eventually end up in Japan. 

If you want to find good global companies to work at that have offices in Japan, as well as ones that hire from overseas and offer visa sponsorship , you can always check Japan Dev where we post new job listings every day.

One important caveat to point out here is that the intra-company visa requires you to be employed at the company for at least a year before you can transfer, so, keep that in mind if you plan to pick this option.

Starting Your Own Company

If nothing else works, starting your own company and continuing to work for your company remotely as a freelancer or contract worker can allow you to stay in Japan. It’s a costly one, but an option nonetheless. 

Most people don’t prefer this route because it’s not just expensive but also a bit of a hassle to deal with. Running a company requires accurate bookkeeping and a stronger comprehension of the tax system, which you’ll need an accountant for. 

So, with all the responsibility and costs attached, this option seems to be only feasible if you’re willing to invest substantially to open the business (or branch) in Japan.

Student Visa

A student visa is another option that gets you residence in Japan, but, of course, this requires you to be enrolled in an official educational institution. It also requires you to be a full-time student.

The student visa does allow some part-time work, though. You need to apply for a special permit , which allows you to work for a maximum of 28 hours a week (40 hours during school vacation seasons).

While this visa isn’t for everyone, an important point to keep in mind if you pick this option is that you’ll be required to attend classes regularly. As you’re primarily a student, failing your student duties and missing too many classes will result in getting your visa revoked. 

I’ve covered a wide range of possibilities and different visa types that can allow you to work remotely in Japan in one way, shape, or form. However, I didn’t mention the dependent visa that’s issued to spouses and the work visa for a reason.

For one, the dependent visa doesn’t recognize remote work from abroad as a relevant work activity, which puts it in an illegal territory. This means that you’ll have to apply for this non-qualified activity, which will only allow you to work 28 hours weekly at a maximum. 

The dependent visa, as it is today, doesn’t allow for full-time work. This is because being dependent on someone is the primary requirement of this visa, which also means that your earnings can’t exceed your dependee’s. 

Alternatively, a work visa is another non-option if you want to work remotely in Japan. Working for an overseas company isn’t a valid reason to qualify for a work visa, as your contract has to be with a public or private Japanese company/institution. 

So, without a workplace in Japan, the Engineer/Humanities/International Services (技術・人文知識・国際業務)" and "Highly Skilled Professional (高度人材) visas aren’t an option for those looking to work remotely while staying in Japan.

The working holiday visa allows staying in Japan for up to a year, and, sadly, it can’t be extended .

It’s possible to cut your stay short and leave early, but staying longer than twelve months isn’t possible on a working holiday visa. You’ll have to leave before your visa expires and reapply for another visa if you want to reenter Japan.

Similarly, those who want to “convert” their working holiday visas to another type, such as the work visa, should also know that this, as a general rule, isn’t possible. Emphasis on the “general” here. 

For one, a visa can’t be “converted” but you can apply for another visa should you cease to qualify for the one you’ve applied for or your status changes. This means that even if you get hired and sign a contract with a Japan-based company during your working holiday, you’ll have to apply for a work visa instead of “converting” your current visa.

So, as it stands, the general rule seems to be that if you do find a job that makes you qualified for a work visa, you’ll still have to leave Japan and apply from your country of origin. 

That said, it’s important to keep the unique nature of the working holiday programs in mind, which stems from bilateral treaties signed between Japan and individual countries. What this means is that while there are general rules that govern these programs, the specific rules for each country depend on the bilateral treaty between the two countries.

So, depending on the agreements, there may be specific rules for nationals of certain countries that might allow them to apply for a work visa while on a working holiday, but as I said, this isn’t a guarantee and you should check the specific regulations for your country.

Before I go, I’d like to provide some quick answers to some of the biggest burning questions online regarding working holiday visas and working remotely during your stay in Japan.

Can I Live in Japan and Work For a US Company?

Yes, you can work remotely while you’re in Japan using an Employer of Record (EOR) service, or by obtaining an “intra-company transferee visa” if you’re eligible. Alternatively, you can start a company in Japan and work for your employer as a contractor, which may be costly.

Lastly, you can find a new job in Japan, at a subsidiary of a US-based corporation, which you can find plenty of on the Japan Dev company list .

Can I Work Remotely in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa?

Technically, yes, you can. However, what you need to be careful about is filing taxes and declaring your foreign income, given that your earnings will need to be taxed by the Japanese Tax Agency.

Can You Work Remotely While on a Tourist Visa in Japan?

Yes, you can. The tourist visa allows you a short-term stay in Japan, and the work you temporarily engage in as part of a work conducted abroad is allowed during your stay.

Can I Move to Japan With a Remote Job?

Yes, you can move to Japan while remaining employed at a remote job. However, it isn’t easy.

You can obtain a working holiday visa, but this is limited to one year, and you also need to be under 30 years old (under 25 or 26 for nationals of certain countries ). In addition to this, you can use an EOR service, which involves a 3rd party company employing you on behalf of your company.

If your employer is willing to be involved, instead of using an EOR service, your company can hire you as a freelance contractor for the term you stay in Japan. Lastly, if you have the resources, you also have the option to start your own company in Japan.

Of course, if you like Japan, looking for a full-time job while on a working holiday visa can be another option. You can find great opportunities on the Japan Dev job board where we feature jobs from companies with best practices, and some even allow remote work and don’t require any Japanese skills !

Can I Get a Full-Time Job in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa?

If you want to work for a company in Japan full-time while you’re in the country on a working holiday visa, you technically can, as this visa type doesn’t involve any work hour limitations. 

That said, the main purpose of the working holiday visa is vacationing, and theoretically, you’re only supposed to be working to finance your travels. If you’ve found a full-time job in Japan, it’s recommended to apply to change your residence status to a more appropriate one, like the work visa types I explored in my How to get an Engineering Visa post.

References: 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs - The Working Holiday Programs in Japan

National Tax Agency: 2023 INCOME TAX AND SPECIAL INCOME TAX FOR RECONSTRUCTION GUIDE

Kamalegal: The Immigration Will Know You Work For More Than 28 Hours

Consulate General Japan in Hong Kong: Working Holiday Visa for Japan Q&A

This post was written by our Japan Dev editorial team.

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Work and travel in Japan

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How to apply

Who can apply.

To work in Japan through the Working Holiday Program, you must:

• be a Canadian citizen
• be 18-30 years old (inclusive)
• live in Canada when you apply, and
• have a valid Canadian passport

Other requirements may apply. Check  Japan’s website  for more details.

What type of work visa do I need?

You need to apply for a  Working Holiday visa .

Do I need a formal job or internship offer?

No, you do not need a formal job offer (pre-arranged contract of employment), or a formal internship offer.

Working Holiday participants cannot work at places that might affect public moral such as bars, cabarets, and nightclubs.

How long can I stay and work?

You can stay and work in Japan for up to 12 months.

You can participate in Japan’s Working Holiday program once.

Start your Adventure

About japan.

Japan is one of the most developed and modern countries in the world. It has cutting-edge technology such as bullet trains, yet is steeped in century-old traditions that still hold significant value.

Japan features mountainous terrain with dense forests, criss-crossed short rivers, and natural hots springs. The country enjoys four distinct seasons that provide seasonal delights like cherry blossoms in the autumn.

Stay at a traditional Japanese inn, called a  ryokan , and experience warm hospitality and a glimpse into Japanese customs. Try a variety of Japanese food, including popular modern food such as  ramen,  Japanese-style curry and  okonomiyaki , or enjoy Japan’s traditional cuisine, such as  sushi  and  soba  noodles.

Plan your trip

The best way to make sure your trip is the experience of a lifetime is to plan. Review our  travel checklist  to find out what you should know or do before travelling to and working in a foreign country. Before you leave, remember to  register as a Canadian abroad  to receive notifications in case of an emergency while you are abroad or of a personal emergency at home. The service also enables you to receive important information before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest.

Recognized organizations

Need help planning? One of IEC’s  recognized organizations  might be able to help you find a job, transportation, and provide travel advice. Most recognized organizations charge a fee for their services.

JET Program

The  Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program  is a Japanese government-sponsored program. It offers university graduates full-time job opportunities as assistant language teachers or as coordinators of international relations.

Each year, more than 200 Canadians participate. Applications open in the fall for departure the following summer. You must be a Canadian citizen and have a bachelor’s degree in any field before you leave for Japan.

Tourism Japan

Learn about Japan

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Countries/territories

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• Netherlands
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The JAPAN eVISA system (electronic visa)

Foreign nationals/people who wish to travel to Japan for tourism for a short-term period can apply for a visa online and receive an electronic visa (eVISA) through the JAPAN eVISA system. As of April 26, 2024, the JAPAN eVISA system is available for nationals/people residing in the following countries/regions.

Eligibility

• (note) Online visa application via the JAPAN eVISA system is currently not available at the Consulate-General of Japan in Dubai.
• (1) China Nationals of China, who reside in China
• (2) Viet Nam Nationals of Viet Nam, who reside in Viet Nam and participate in a packaged tour organized by designated travel agencies
• (3) Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia and the Republic of Korea All foreign nationals/people residing in Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia and the Republic of Korea (except jurisdiction over the Consulate General of Japan in Jeju), except those who are exempt from short-term visa
• (1) JAPAN eVISA is available only to those who travel to Japan by plane.
• (2) During the application process, the applicant may be requested to appear in person at the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over the place of the applicant’s residence for an interview.
• (3) Only ordinary passport holder is eligible to apply through JAPAN eVISA website.

Types of visa

Single-entry short-term stay visa for the purpose of Tourism (for a period of up to 90 days) (Note). Electronic visas will be issued to those who applied through JAPAN eVISA website.

(Note: For nationals of China residing in China, electronic visas with a period of stay "15 days" or "30 days" will be issued. For nationals of Viet Nam residing in Viet Nam, the period of stay of electronic visas will be "15 days".) (Travelers with eVISA are required to display “Visa issuance notice” at the airport in the internet environment. PDF data, screenshot and printed copy will not be accepted.) If you wish to visit Japan for other purposes or for a long-term stay, please submit your application to the Japanese Embassy, Consulate General or Consular office with jurisdiction over your place of residence. (In some countries, applications must be made through travel agencies accredited by Japanese overseas establishment.) (For Taiwan, Taipei / Kaohsiung offices of Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association) In this case, you will have a visa sticker on your passport.

JAPAN eVISA website

• Please beware of fraud websites looking alike the JAPAN eVISA website.
• If your application is incomplete, we will cancel it without processing. Once cancelled, you are supposed to reapply (for your visa). Entering incorrect information and/or uploading incomplete/wrong documents could lead to a delay in examination or cancellation of your eVISA application, which may affect your travel plans.

How to display “Visa issuance notice”

Frequently asked questions about japan evisa.

• FAQ about JAPAN eVISA

Contact information for inquiries

Japan Visa Information Hotline: [email protected] (Available language: English) (Note1) Please mention your nationality or citizenship and place of your residence in your email. (Note2) This e-mail address is only for inquiries about JAPAN eVISA application procedures. For general inquiries, please contact the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over your place of residence.

• Website of Japanese Embassies and Consulates

Working Holiday Visa

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom

Citizens of other countries are not eligible for a working holiday visa.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

The working holiday programmes in japan.

A Complete Guide To Applying For A Travel Visa To Japan

• Last updated May 01, 2024
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category Travel

Traveling to Japan can be an unforgettable experience, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto. But before you embark on this adventure, there is one essential step you must take: applying for a travel visa to Japan. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, navigating the visa application process can be daunting. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you through every step of the way. From understanding the different types of visas to gathering the necessary documents, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and get you one step closer to exploring the Land of the Rising Sun!

What You'll Learn

Gather the necessary documents for your travel visa application, research the specific requirements and procedures for applying in your country, complete the visa application form accurately and thoroughly, submit your application and wait for a decision from the japanese embassy.

If you're planning a trip to Japan, you may need to apply for a travel visa before you can enter the country. The application process can vary depending on your nationality, so it's important to research the specific requirements for your country. In this article, we will guide you through the process of gathering the necessary documents for your travel visa application to Japan.

• Valid passport: Your passport is the most important document you'll need for your visa application. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Japan. If your passport is due to expire soon, consider renewing it before applying for your visa.
• Visa application form: You can usually download the visa application form from the website of the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. Fill out the form completely and accurately, making sure to sign and date it.
• Photo: Attach one recent passport-sized color photograph to your visa application form. The photo should meet the specific requirements outlined by the Japanese embassy or consulate, such as size, background color, and facial expression.
• Itinerary: Prepare a detailed travel itinerary that includes your planned dates of arrival and departure, as well as the places you'll be visiting in Japan. You should also include any reservations you've made for accommodations or transportation within the country.
• Proof of accommodation: Provide proof of your accommodations in Japan, such as hotel reservations or a letter of invitation if you're staying with a friend or family member. Make sure the document includes your name, the address of the accommodation, and the dates of your stay.
• Travel insurance: Obtain travel insurance that covers your entire stay in Japan. The insurance should provide coverage for medical expenses, repatriation, and emergency evacuation. Include a copy of your insurance policy or a letter from the insurance company stating the coverage details.
• Financial documents: You may be required to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Japan. This can include bank statements, a letter from your employer stating your position and salary, or an international credit card statement.
• Employment verification: If you're employed, include a letter from your employer stating your position, the length of your employment, and permission for your absence during the travel dates specified in your itinerary.
• Flight itinerary: It's recommended to have a confirmed round-trip flight itinerary showing your planned entry and exit dates from Japan. If you haven't booked your flight yet, you can provide a tentative flight itinerary or a booking confirmation for your departure flight.
• Additional documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents. For example, if you're a student, you should include a letter from your school or university confirming your enrollment. If you're visiting family or friends, include a letter of invitation from your host. Check the requirements for your specific visa type to see if any additional documents are needed.

Once you've gathered all the necessary documents, double-check that everything is complete and accurate. It's advisable to make copies of all your documents for your records. Finally, submit your completed application and supporting documents to the appropriate Japanese embassy or consulate in your country, following their specific instructions.

Can I Travel Abroad If My Visa is About to Expire?

You may want to see also

Applying for a travel visa to Japan can be a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and research the specific requirements and procedures for your country. Here is a detailed guide on how to apply for a travel visa to Japan:

Determine your visa type:

• Temporary Visitor Visa: This visa is suitable for short-term visits such as tourism, sightseeing, or visiting friends and relatives.
• Working Visa: If you plan to work in Japan, you need to apply for a working visa. The specific requirements vary depending on the type of work you will be doing.
• Student Visa: If you plan to study in Japan, you will need to apply for a student visa. The requirements for this visa type include a Certificate of Eligibility issued by your chosen educational institution in Japan.

Research the requirements:

• Visit the official website of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan in your country. They will provide you with detailed information on the required documents and application procedures.
• Generally, you will need a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photograph, and supporting documents such as flight itineraries, hotel reservations, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Japan.

Prepare your documents:

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Japan.
• Complete the visa application form accurately and legibly. You may need to provide details about your travel history, employment, and purpose of visit.
• Attach the recent passport-sized photograph to the application form as per the specifications mentioned in the guidelines.
• Gather the supporting documents required for your visa type, such as flight itineraries, hotel reservations, a bank statement showing sufficient funds, and any additional documents requested by the embassy.

Submit your application:

• Once you have prepared all the necessary documents, visit the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan in your country. Some countries may require you to make an appointment before submitting your application.
• Take all the original documents, along with copies, as some embassies may ask for both.
• Submit your application form and supporting documents to the designated visa application center or consular office.

Pay the visa fee:

After submitting your application, you will be required to pay the visa fee. The fee may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. Check the official website or contact the embassy for the exact fee amount and acceptable payment methods.

Attend an interview (if required):

In some cases, the visa application process may include an interview with an immigration officer. The purpose of the interview is to verify the information provided in your application and to assess your intentions to visit Japan.

Track your application:

After submitting your application, you will be given a tracking number or reference number. Use this number to track the progress of your application online or via the embassy's hotline. It is essential to keep yourself updated on the status of your visa application.

Collect your passport:

• Once your visa application has been processed and approved, you will be notified to collect your stamped passport from the embassy or visa application center.
• Make sure to bring the necessary documents and identification when picking up your passport.

Remember to start the visa application process well in advance of your intended travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. Additionally, it is always a good idea to double-check the requirements and procedures specific to your country and the embassy or consulate handling your application. Following these steps will help ensure a smooth and successful application for your travel visa to Japan.

Understanding the Importance of Visa Travel Documents

When applying for a travel visa to Japan, it is crucial to complete the visa application form accurately and thoroughly. The visa application form acts as your primary means of communication with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate, so it is essential to provide accurate and detailed information. Here are some important points to keep in mind when filling out your visa application form:

• Read the instructions carefully: Before starting to fill out the visa application form, take the time to thoroughly read the instructions provided by the Japanese Embassy or Consulate. These instructions will guide you on how to complete the form correctly, what documents are required, and any specific requirements that need to be met.
• Provide accurate personal information: Begin by providing accurate personal information such as your full name, date of birth, gender, and nationality. Make sure all the details are aligned with your passport as any discrepancies may lead to delays or the rejection of your visa application.
• Fill in the required fields: The visa application form will typically have several sections that need to be completed. These sections may include details such as your contact information, passport information, travel itinerary, and purpose of visit. Ensure that you fill in all the required fields and leave no blanks. If a section is not applicable to your situation, clearly indicate so instead of leaving it empty.
• Be clear and specific: When providing details about your travel itinerary, be as clear and specific as possible. Include the dates of your intended entry and departure, as well as the cities or regions you plan to visit. If you have already made any hotel reservations or have an invitation letter from a host in Japan, include these details in the appropriate section.
• Provide accurate employment and financial information: The visa application form may require you to provide information about your current employment or educational background. Be sure to fill in these details accurately, including your job title, employer or institution name, and contact information. Additionally, you may be asked to provide details about your financial situation. Provide accurate information about your income, savings, and any other sources of funding for your trip.
• Answer all required questions truthfully: The visa application form may include questions about your previous travel history, criminal record, or any previous visa rejections. It is crucial to answer these questions truthfully and provide any necessary supporting documents, if required. Providing false information can lead to serious consequences and may result in visa denial or even a future travel ban.
• Double-check before submitting: Before submitting the visa application form, take the time to review all the information you have provided. Double-check for any errors, typos, or missing information. Make sure all the information is accurate, complete, and matches the supporting documents you are submitting.

Completing the visa application form accurately and thoroughly is a crucial step in the process of applying for a travel visa to Japan. Pay close attention to the instructions provided, provide accurate personal and travel information, and make sure to double-check before submitting your application. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application.

How to Easily Revise Travel Visa Information for a Seamless Trip

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and completed the visa application form, it is time to submit your application to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. Submitting your application correctly and in a timely manner is crucial to avoid any delays or potential rejections. Here are the steps to submit your application and what to expect during the process:

• Check the Japanese embassy or consulate's website: Before you submit your application, visit the official website of the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. Familiarize yourself with the specific visa requirements and procedures. It is important to follow the instructions provided on the website to ensure a smooth application process.
• Schedule an appointment (if required): Some Japanese embassies or consulates may require applicants to schedule an appointment before submitting the application. Check the website to see if this is necessary. If appointments are required, make sure to book one in advance to avoid any last-minute inconvenience.
• Gather all the required documents: Double-check that you have all the necessary documents for your visa application. This may include your passport, visa application form, recent passport-sized photographs, flight itinerary, hotel reservations, proof of sufficient financial means, and travel insurance documents. Missing or incomplete documents could result in delays or a rejection of your application.
• Prepare your application package: Organize all your documents neatly and in the required order. Ensure that your visa application form is filled out completely and accurately, sign it, and attach your recent photographs. If there are any additional documents required, such as a letter of invitation or a detailed travel itinerary, include them in your package as well.
• Submit your application: Visit the Japanese embassy or consulate in person on the designated date and time if no appointment is required. If you were asked to schedule an appointment, make sure to arrive on time. Present your application package to the designated authorities. They will review your documents and may ask you questions about your travel plans or intentions. Provide honest and concise answers.
• Pay the visa fee: Depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for, there may be a visa processing fee. Follow the instructions provided on the embassy or consulate's website regarding the fee payment method and amount. Keep in mind that the fee is usually non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.
• Receive the decision: After submitting your visa application, the embassy or consulate will process your application. The processing time can vary depending on the volume of applications received, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date. Once a decision has been made, the embassy or consulate will inform you whether your visa application has been approved or denied.
• Collect your passport and visa: If your application is approved, you will be required to collect your passport from the embassy or consulate. It is important to follow the instructions provided and bring any necessary identification documents or receipts to claim your passport. If your application is denied, the embassy or consulate will provide reasons for the rejection, and you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply at a later date.

Submitting your visa application to the Japanese embassy or consulate is the last step in the process before you can start looking forward to your trip to Japan. Following the instructions provided, ensuring all the required documents are complete, and being honest and prepared during the application process will significantly increase your chances of obtaining a travel visa to Japan.

De Facto Visa Holders: Can They Travel?

Frequently asked questions.

The documents required for a travel visa to Japan include a completed visa application form, a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a recent passport-size photo, proof of travel arrangements (such as flight tickets), proof of accommodation (such as hotel reservations), and a detailed travel itinerary.

The processing time for a travel visa application for Japan varies depending on the embassy or consulate where you submit your application. Generally, it takes around 5 to 10 business days for the visa to be processed, but it can take longer during peak travel seasons. It is recommended to apply well in advance to allow for any potential delays.

The cost of a travel visa to Japan depends on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, tourist visas have a standard fee of around $25 to $50. However, visa fees can vary, so it is best to check with your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for the exact cost.

No, you cannot apply for a travel visa to Japan online. You must submit your visa application in person at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. Some countries have visa application centers where you can submit your application, while others require you to visit the embassy or consulate directly. It is important to check the specific requirements of your country of residence.

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You may have difficulty using credit and debit cards issued outside Japan. Cirrus, Maestro, Link and Delta cash cards are not widely accepted. Japanese post offices, 7-Eleven stores and JP Post Bank have cash machines that will accept some foreign cards during business hours.

Check with your bank before travelling and take alternative sources of money.

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