Slot availability and application for the Italy Working Holiday Visa

Volare Editorial | April 3, 2026

Access to the Working Holiday in Italy program is regulated by bilateral agreements that define both the number of available vacancies and the application method. It is essential to know the opening calendar to secure a spot in destinations with limited quotas. For technical assistance with your application, you can visit Volare's Italy Working holiday section.

Slot availability by nationality

The number of residence permits granted annually varies according to the specific agreement each country has with the Italian government:

• Australia and New Zealand: These countries have unlimited slots. The application remains open throughout the calendar year, allowing interested parties to start the process at any time without the risk of vacancies running out.

• Canada: It has a limit of 2,000 annual slots. Like the previous countries, the application is usually available continuously until the established quota is filled.

• Japan: It has 1,500 annual slots. The opening of applications takes place annually and is subject to official availability communicated by diplomatic missions.

• South Korea and Hong Kong: Both nationalities have 500 annual slots each. The process is activated through specific annual openings and closes once the vacancy limit is reached.

  
  

Application process and biometric capture

The method for submitting the application depends strictly on the protocols established by the consulate or embassy corresponding to the applicant's jurisdiction:

Direct and in-person application

For most nationalities, the procedure requires a direct application before the Italian diplomatic representation. It is mandatory to schedule an in-person appointment at the embassy or consulate to perform the capture of biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) and deliver the physical file with the required documentation.

Pre-registration and slot reservation

In cases of countries with high demand and reduced quotas, such as South Korea or Japan, authorities may require mandatory pre-registration (frequently via email) for slot reservation. Only after receiving official confirmation of the vacancy can the interested party proceed with the in-person appointment to finalize the visa process.