Germany has officially published the full list of countries whose young citizens qualify for its Working Holiday Programme. The scheme allows participants to live and work in Germany for up to 12 months while experiencing German culture and daily life.
Twelve Countries Eligible for Germany's Working Holiday Programme
According to the German Embassy in France, the programme is open to young people from the following 12 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Israel, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Taiwan, and Uruguay.
The programme is designed to give young people an immersive look at life in Germany. Holiday employment serves as a means of financially sustaining the stay rather than as the primary purpose of the visit.
Entry Rules: Who Can Apply After Arrival in Germany
Not every eligible nationality follows the same application route. Nationals from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, and Israel are permitted to travel to Germany first and then apply for the necessary residence permit directly with local immigration authorities, known as the Ausländerbehörde, once they arrive.
However, these travellers may not begin any form of employment until the residence permit has been officially issued and explicitly authorises working holiday employment.
Where to Submit Working Holiday Applications
For all other eligible nationalities, a Working Holiday Visa must be obtained before entering Germany. The application process varies depending on where the applicant is from.
South Korean nationals can only submit their application at the German Embassy in Seoul. Taiwanese nationals must apply through the German Institute in Taipei. Those residing in Hong Kong can only apply at the German Consulate General there. Brazilian nationals are required to apply at a German diplomatic mission located within Brazil.
Argentinian, Chilean, and Uruguayan nationals have slightly more flexibility and may apply at any German mission abroad. As a general rule, the German Embassy in Paris also issues Working Holiday Visas, but only to nationals of those three countries.
Legit.ng has also published residency years for foreigners who want to become Qatari citizens.
Related Citizenship Requirements in Australia
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Australia's Department of Home Affairs outlined the residence requirement foreigners must meet before applying for citizenship. Applicants must have lived in Australia on a valid visa for a number of years before the date they apply for citizenship. The rules also specify how much time applicants are allowed to have spent outside Australia during that period.
