What is a ‘Working Holiday’?

Simply put, the Working Holiday visa allows holders to stay for 6 to 12 months in Japan while also granting holders the freedom to work either part-time or full-time. It can even be extended if you meet the requirements.

Are you eligible?

While the requirements for a Working Holiday Visa are similar, there are some differences depending on your nationality. Overall, basic requirements are:

-         Aged 18-30

-         Hold a valid passport.

-         Reasonable funds (varies a lot though, expect anywhere from 1500USD to 3000USD)

-         Be in good health.

*To make sure you meet all requirements, please contact us for a free consultation, we can help you to make the best plan according to your situation.

How to Apply

Keep in mind that in most cases you have to apply in person from your country of citizenship. For example, if you are a Canadian currently living in the US, you have to return to Canada to be able to apply.

List of documents you might need to prepare:

-         A valid passport

-         35mm x 45mm photo

-         And up-to-date CV or resume

-         Flight details (or travel plans)

-         Proof of funds

*Each case can be slightly different, please contact us to get your own checklist and get suggestions from our experienced consultants. Meko Education has a visa approval rate of 100%.

Application Tips:

1.       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.

2.       Overdrafts, loans, credit cards—these aren't accepted as proof of sufficient funds.

3.       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.

What kind of jobs are out there for Working Holiday Visa holders?

The Working Holiday Visa doesn’t have many 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” — like bars, nightclubs, and gambling establishments.

Common jobs include English teacher, TA, hotel and resort works, or other customer service works. Depending on your skills and work experience, finding employment or even remote jobs in tech and gaming industries or working as a freelancer is totally possible these days.

Possibilities after ‘Working Holiday’

Extending your stay in Japan beyond your Working Holiday is entirely feasible if you can find a company willing to sponsor you or enroll in a language school.

Meko Education can assist in sponsoring your student visa application (so far, we have the visa approval rate of 100% percent). In the event you're looking for employment sponsorship, you can contact us upon your arrival in Japan with your Working Holiday Visa. We can help you plan your career path in Japan to ensure you make the most of your Working Holiday experience.

It's not often mentioned, but having a good grasp of Japanese can make a significant difference in your job search. To avoid limiting your employment options, it's essential to be proficient in everyday Japanese conversations. While being an English teacher is a great choice, having other options at your disposal is even better.

May Japan become the place where your potential thrives, enabling you to bloom just as you're meant to.