The Embassy of Malta in Japan has recently issued further guidance on the programme, which will allow young Japanese nationals to spend up to one year in Malta, combining travel with work and cultural exchange. Applications are to be processed through VFS Global, with final authorisation handled by Identità, Malta’s central visa authority.

Under the scheme, applicants must meet a number of criteria, including being aged between 18 and 30, holding a valid Japanese passport, possessing sufficient funds, and having comprehensive medical insurance. They must also demonstrate a clean criminal record and an intention to return to Japan at the end of their stay.

From an investment and economic perspective, the initiative is being closely watched as a mechanism to attract longer-stay visitors who contribute more sustainably to the local economy.

Industry data already suggests that Japanese visitors represent a high-value segment. According to previous reporting, 3,600 Japanese students attended English language courses in Malta in 2024, making Japan the third-largest non-EU market for the sector. While this remains below pre-pandemic levels, the upward trend is notable, with steady growth recorded since 2022.

More significantly, the average duration of stay has increased. In 2023, Japanese students accounted for over 21,000 student weeks in Malta, an 11 per cent increase compared to 2019 despite fewer arrivals. This shift towards longer stays aligns with the objectives of the working holiday scheme, which encourages extended engagement with the local economy.

Jessica Rees-Jones, CEO of the Federation of English Language Teaching Organisations in Malta (FELTOM), has previously described the agreement as “a fantastic opportunity” for the sector. She noted that Japanese students are “widely regarded as high-quality tourists” who tend to stay longer and contribute more, particularly within the 18–25 age bracket.

While the visa itself is issued free of charge, applicants will still incur service fees through the external processing provider. Identità retains the right to interview applicants where necessary, underscoring the programme’s regulatory framework.