🇯🇵 🇲🇹 Japan and Malta confirm new Working Holiday program for 2026

Written by Volare | June 16, 2026

The government of Japan and the Republic of Malta have officially confirmed the launch of their new Working Holiday program for the year 2026. This recent bilateral agreement marks a fundamental milestone in youth mobility between both nations, giving young people the opportunity to experience a deep cultural exchange in two highly attractive destinations.

Available quotas and program scope

The regulatory framework of this new treaty establishes a strict limit of 100 annual quotas available for citizens of each country. Through this youth mobility scheme, beneficiaries will be authorized to reside in the partner country for a maximum non-extendable period of 12 months.

Due to the reduced volume of places assigned in this initial stage of the agreement, it is anticipated that competition will be high. Anticipating the collection of supporting documents and being prepared to submit the application at the exact moment the consular periods are enabled will prevent your procedure from being blocked by the premature exhaustion of vacancies.

Official process and competent authorities

To know the technical guidelines and the exact application process, the official channel will depend on the applicant's nationality. Maltese citizens wishing to travel to Japanese territory must refer to the information provided by the Embassy of Japan in Malta.

On the other hand, Japanese young people interested in residing in the Mediterranean archipelago must manage their file through the state agency Identità and the diplomatic representation of the Embassy of Malta in Japan, channeling their initial documentation through the VFS Global collection center.

It is indispensable that the assembly of the file strictly complies with the documentary requirements dictated by the immigration authorities of the destination nation. Complying with the protocols of this organizational planning will ensure a smooth transition towards obtaining temporary residence, allowing you to materialize your insertion into the dynamic seasonal labor market and plan your participation in the diverse short-term academic offer of the chosen region.

Cultural immersion and adaptation to the destination

Embarking on this trip represents a unique opportunity to experience the marked contrast between both cultures. While Japan offers an immersion in its millennial Asian tradition and advanced technological infrastructure, Malta provides the possibility of living the dynamic Mediterranean lifestyle with its rich European heritage and a warm climate for most of the year. Thoroughly researching the cost of living, the local language, and the customs of each island will be a decisive factor for participants to achieve successful adaptation and make the most of their 12-month stay.

To ensure you have the appropriate support and the most detailed information at every step of your application, we recommend consulting our complete guides on Volare's Japan Working Holiday Visa (WHV) and Volare's Malta Working Holiday Visa (WHV).