Taipei: Taiwan and Japan have raised the lifetime limit on working holiday visas to two per person, up from one, under a revised agreement that took effect February 1, Premier Cho Jung-tai announced Thursday. Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee, citing Cho, stated that the change was formalized through a recent exchange of documents between Taiwan and Japan on the implementation of their working holiday scheme, aimed at deepening bilateral youth and cultural exchanges.

According to Focus Taiwan, Cho highlighted that the program allows young Taiwanese to gain cross-cultural experiences, build independent living skills, and develop a global perspective. The revised agreement seeks to expand opportunities for youth engagement and strengthen Taiwan-Japan cooperation, fostering deeper bilateral ties.

Cho also urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to continue pursuing opportunities for international engagement for young people. The Taiwan-Japan working holiday scheme was initially signed on April 3, 2009, and implemented later that year, allowing applicants to receive the visa only once in their lifetime at that time.

The scheme is open to applicants aged 18 to 30, with each visa valid for one year from the date of issue. This adjustment aims to further enhance the cultural and personal growth opportunities for young people in both nations.