Starting January 1, 2026, young citizens of Malta can travel and work in Japan under a newly established Working Holiday agreement. This program allows up to 100 Maltese nationals aged 18 to 30 to stay in Japan for up to one year to experience its culture while working part-time to fund their travels. To secure one of these limited visas, applicants must prepare their documents and apply through the designated embassy.
What is the Japan-Malta Working Holiday Program for 2026?
The bilateral agreement between Japan and Malta officially begins on January 1, 2026. This initiative is designed to foster mutual understanding by giving young people the chance to experience Japanese daily life and culture. While the primary purpose of your stay must be a vacation, you are permitted to engage in part-time employment to help cover your travel expenses.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Malta is one of the newest additions to Japan's growing list of partner countries, which now totals 32 as of April 1, 2026. The annual quota for Maltese citizens is capped at 100 visas per calendar year, running from January 1 to December 31. Once this limit is reached, the embassy will stop accepting applications for that year.
Who is eligible to apply?
To qualify for this visa, you must meet several strict criteria:
- You must be a Maltese national residing in Malta at the time of your application.
- You must be between 18 and 30 years old (inclusive) when you apply.
- You cannot bring dependents or children unless they hold their own valid visas.
- You must be in good health and have no criminal record.
- You must intend to leave Japan at the end of your stay and must not have received a Japanese working holiday visa in the past.
Please note that visa rules can vary, and you should always confirm your eligibility with the official embassy before applying.
What are the financial requirements?
Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their initial stay and to secure return travel. You must show proof of:
- A valid return flight ticket, or approximately 1,800 euros to purchase one.
- At least 1,750 euros for your initial living expenses.
- For married couples applying together for two visas, the minimum combined maintenance fund is 2,600 euros.
How do I apply for the visa?
Since the Japanese Embassy in Italy is accredited to Malta, you must coordinate with their office in Rome to submit your application.
What documents must I prepare?
You will need to gather and submit the following paperwork:
- A valid Maltese passport.
- One completed visa application form (certain sections like guarantor or inviter can be left blank if not applicable).
- One passport-sized photo taken within the last six months (35mm x 45mm).
- A resume and an outline of your planned activities in Japan.
- A typed statement on A4 paper explaining your reasons for applying.
- Financial proof, such as bank statements or balance certificates.
- A signed pledge form to enroll in Japan's health insurance, or proof of a valid private insurance policy.
- A signed consent form for the use of personal data.
What is the step-by-step application process?
The application process follows four steps:
- Pre-Check: Email digital copies of your documents to the Rome embassy.
- Booking: Once confirmed, schedule an appointment. Do not travel to Rome before this.
- Submission: Submit your physical application in person in Rome. An interview may occur.
- Collection: If approved, you will be notified by email to schedule a pickup visit.
The visa is free of charge and is valid for three months from the date of issue. You must enter Japan before it expires.
What are the rules for working and living in Japan?
Once you arrive, you will receive permission to stay for up to one year. However, there are strict regulations regarding your activities and employment.
What kind of jobs are prohibited?
While you can work to supplement your travel funds, you are strictly banned from working in the adult entertainment industry or businesses that affect public morals. This includes bars, cabarets, nightclubs, and gambling venues. Engaging in prohibited work violates immigration laws and can lead to deportation.
What must I do after arriving in Japan?
Within 14 days of finding a place to live, visit your local municipal office to register your address and enroll in the National Health Insurance. This insurance costs about 3,500 yen monthly (varying by municipality) and covers 70% of medical bills. If you must leave Japan temporarily, obtain a Special Re-entry Permit before departing to keep your visa valid.
Finding a place to stay
Once your working holiday visa is officially issued, it is time to arrange your accommodation before arriving in Japan. Securing a comfortable base in Tokyo allows you to focus on job hunting and adjusting to your new life. Many newcomers choose to stay in a furnished monthly apartment first to ease their transition. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo; most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing). This is highly convenient for working holiday makers because there is no guarantor, no key money and no agency fee; booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card. Additionally, the monthly price includes electricity, gas, water and Wi-Fi, making it easy to manage your initial living expenses without unexpected bills.
FAQ
Can I apply if I am already 30 years old?
Yes, you can apply as long as you are 30 and your application is received before your 31st birthday. The visa is valid for three months, so you may turn 31 by the time you enter Japan.
Can I leave Japan and return during my working holiday?
Yes. Although the working holiday visa is for a single entry, you can temporarily leave and return within your one-year stay by obtaining a Special Re-entry Permit before you depart.
Are there any jobs I am not allowed to do?
Yes. You are strictly prohibited from working in places that affect public morals, such as bars, cabarets, nightclubs, gambling establishments, or adult entertainment businesses.
Sources
- 在外日本国大使館「Working Holiday Visa for Maltese Nationals | Embassy of Japan in Malta」(checked 2026-10-09)
- 外務省「The Working Holiday Programmes in Japan | Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan」(checked 2026-10-09)
Facts are summarized in our own words; see the linked pages for the official details.
Rules and dates can change. Always confirm with the official source before you apply.