Working Holiday Programme

The Working Holiday Programme is an initiative by the Irish and Japanese Governments and enables young Japanese people to take extended holidays in Ireland for up to a year, and to work to supplement their travel.

The aim of the scheme is to give Japanese people the opportunity to experience the culture, landscape and people of Ireland while being able to work and study English.

Please consult our Working Holiday Guide to learn more.

• First application period (for applicants that wish to travel to Ireland before 30th September 2026): Thursday15 January to Friday 6 February 2026
• Second application period (for applicants that wish to travel to Ireland after 1st October 2026 and before 20th March 2027): Thursday 15 to Friday 30 July 2026