Winter Work Japan

INTRODUCTION

These Terms & Conditions apply to participation in the Winter Work Japan Program (the Program), offered by the American Institute for Foreign Study (Australia) Pty Ltd (AIFS) ABN 58 087 638 499.

The Program is designed for individuals who are eligible for a Japanese Working Holiday Visa, and who seek seasonal employment in a Japanese resort, hotel or ski school in Japan.

1.PROGRAM OVERVIEW

1.1 The Program includes assistance with securing seasonal employment in Japan. Roles may include, but are not limited to: guest services, retail, food and beverage, kitchen, housekeeping, cleaning, laundry, mountain operations, and instructing.

1.2 Job offers included in the Program are based on prior experience, attitude, flexibility, and employer demand. No specific role or location is guaranteed.

1.3 The Program includes an arrival package. This package will include:

• Airport pick up from Haneda (Dates and times apply)  
• A JPY2,000 travel card  
• 3 x nights 10-share accommodation at a centrally located hostel  
• A JPY1,000 convenience store voucher  
• 1 x AIFS meal  
• Program t-shirt and tote bag  
• A walking tour

1.4 Provide support through the placement.  

2. SEASON LENGTH, HOURS & COMMITMENT

2.1 The winter season generally runs from November or December through March or April, depending on the employer.

2.2 Japanese employers require commitment for the entire season. No partial season contract can be offered.

2.3 Hours are 40 hours per week (not including breaks) unless otherwise specified in your contract. Participants should expect paid overtime during busier months, and work will include weekends and evenings.

3. EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP

3.1 The employment contract is between the Participant and the Japanese employer. AIFS is not the employer.

3.2 Employers may terminate employment if performance expectations are not met.

3.3 In the event of termination, Program participation may also end. AIFS may provide limited job-search support at its discretion.

4. ACCOMMODATION & LIVING EXPENSES

4.1 Staff housing is included for duration of the placement. You will be required to pay the costs of your housing. Housing costs are deducted from the Participant salary and ranges between ¥5,000-50,000.  

4.2 Accommodation is normally in a shared house or dormitory. Rooms generally accommodate one to four people,  

4.3 Japanese bedding may either be a western style bed or a Japanese 'futon' on the floor.  

4.4 Participants are responsible for all personal expenses including visas, flights, travel to the resort, accommodation, food, uniforms and equipment (fi not supplied), and daily living costs.

5. VISAS & INSURANCE

5.1 Participants must independently obtain a valid Japanese Working Holiday Visa.

5.2 Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for the full duration of stay.  

6. CONDUCT & GROOMING

6.1 Participants must comply with employer grooming and conduct standards, including neat appearance, limited jewellery, removal of facial piercings at work, and appropriate hygiene.

7. TIME OFF & HOLIDAYS

7.1 While days off are provided, Participants must be available during peak periods and should expect paid overtime.

7.2 Leave will normally not be given during the contract for any reason.  

8. PROGRAM FEES

8.1 Program fees are in Australian dollars. Fees will be converted into your local currency at the time of payment.  

• Registration Fee: $299 (non-refundable)  
• Second Payment: $600 (upon application review/interview)
• Final Payment: $900 (due within 14 days of placement confirmation and at least 28 days prior to departure)

8.2 Failure to pay fees on time may result in cancellation with no refund.

9. CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

9.1 No refund applies to the Registration Fee or to the 2nd Payment

9.2 If a placement is offered and declined, no refund applies.

9.3 A 50% refund applies to the Final Payment if the Participant cancels more than 28 days prior to start date.  

9.4 No refund applies if the Participant cancels within 28 days of start date.

9.5 If a placement offer is not offered to the Participant by November 30, a complete refund will be provided. Refunds take up to 30 days from the date of notification.  

10. PRIVACY & INFORMATION SHARING

10.1Participant information will be shared with AIFS, and employers in accordance with the Australian Privacy Act 1998.

10.2 Information may be disclosed where legally required.

11. INDEMNITY & LIABILITY

11.1 The Participant indemnifies AIFS and its partners against all claims arising from participation in the Program.

12. FORCE MAJEURE

12.1 AIFS is not liable for cancellations or disruptions caused by events beyond its control, including natural disasters, pandemics, government action, or travel disruptions.

13. GOVERNING PRINCIPLES

13.1 No warranty is given regarding job satisfaction or compatibility.

13.2 Disputes must first be addressed through good-faith negotiation.

13.3 These Terms survive termination of participation in the Program.

14. PARTICIPANT DECLARATION

14.1 By submitting an application, the participant (“I”, “the Participant”) acknowledges and agrees to be legally bound by these Terms & Conditions.