Italy has officially ratified its Working Holiday Visa agreement with Japan, following the publication of Law No. 136 in the Official Gazette on September 27, 2025. This law gives full legal effect to the bilateral deal signed in Rome in May 2022, opening new opportunities for young citizens from both countries.
Key Features of the Italy–Japan Working Holiday Visa
- Eligibility: Citizens aged 18 to 30 from Italy or Japan
- Duration: Valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal
- Cost: Free of charge
- Application Location: Must be submitted from the applicant’s country of origin
Work Rights and Conditions
- Visa holders may engage in short-term employment for up to six months total
- No separate work permit is required
- Employment can be with multiple employers
- Work is considered secondary to the holiday experience
Annual Quotas and Expansion
- Each country will determine annual visa quotas
- This agreement joins Italy’s existing Working Holiday arrangements with Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Canada
- Italy’s Youth Mobility Agreement with Canada entered into force on November 1, 2022
Purpose and Benefits
The Working Holiday Visa program promotes cultural exchange, allowing young travelers to:
- Explore a new country beyond the limits of a tourist visa
- Gain international work experience
- Build connections with local communities
- Support bilateral relations through youth mobility
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.