October 23, 2014
No. 233
The Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Slovak Republic signed a memorandum on a youth working holiday program on April 15, 2014. After the government of Slovakia completed related administrative procedures on August 27, the two countries agreed that the program would be formally launched on October 23.
Taiwan and Slovakia will each provide an annual quota of 100 visas for young people between the ages of 18 and 35. This will enable them to visit the partner country for tourism, short-term employment, or privately funded short-term study. It will offer a new option for youth seeking to broaden their international horizons through learning the language and gaining an in-depth understanding of the culture, society, and lifestyle of the host country. To apply under this program, Taiwan youth should contact the Slovak Economic and Cultural Office, Taipei (http://www.mzv.sk/taipei) for details. Slovak youth interested in traveling to Taiwan for a working holiday may contact the Taipei Representative Office, Bratislava (http://www.roc-taiwan.org/sk).
Slovakia is the first country in Eastern and Central Europe to formally implement a working holiday scheme with Taiwan. The program is expected to foster exchanges and friendships between the youth of the two countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises Taiwan youth visiting Slovakia under this program to abide by local laws, take steps to ensure their personal safety, learn about Slovakia prior to departure, and remain vigilant during their travel so that they may have a safe and successful holiday. They may contact the Taipei Representative Office in case of emergency.
Chinese versions of the working holiday scheme application and other guidelines are available on the MOFA website (http://youthtaiwan.net/mp.asp?mp=1602). (E)