On August 24, 2025, Japan and South Korea have agreed to expand their reciprocal working holiday visa program, allowing eligible citizens to participate twice – a move aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and promoting youth mobility.
Previously limited to a single participation, the updated agreement now permits Japanese and South Korean nationals aged 18 to 25 to apply for a second working holiday visa. The announcement was made during summit talks in Tokyo between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, marking Lee’s first official visit to Japan since taking office.
South Korea becomes the ninth country with which Japan offers second working holiday visas, joining Austria, the UK, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, and Slovakia.
What Is the Working Holiday Program?
The working holiday scheme allows young adults to live, travel, and work in the partner country for a limited period. It’s designed to foster cultural exchange and provide international work experience.
Japan launched its first working holiday program with Australia in 1980 and now maintains similar agreements with 30 countries and regions, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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