Letsnewz.

Letsnewz.

Gap Year No Longer Exclusive to Young People: Middle-aged Individuals Embrace Overseas Experiences

Gap Year No Longer Exclusive to Young People: Middle-aged Individuals Embrace Overseas Experiences

As graduation season and summer vacations approach, the trend of working holidays abroad is once again on the rise. Data from working platforms indicate that the proportion of middle-aged travelers overseas is nearly equal to that of students; Gap Year has now become a choice for those over 30 in the thriving generation. Many are engaging in work exchanges to prepare for future relocations or retirements.

Cross-generational Gap Year! Age of Overseas Work Exchange Rising - Middle-aged Taking Steps to Experience Life

For instance, 21-year-old Jessica spent six months working and studying in the Philippines, using her spare time to travel and immerse herself in the local culture. She stated, "We had colleagues from ten different nationalities, and their cultural habits helped me adapt to future workplace environments." Surveys reveal that 49.8% of young people aged 23-32 choose to work and study abroad, while over 30% of the middle-aged group aged 33-44 participate as well. The number of middle-aged workers going to Japan has increased by 35% over the past five years.

Cross-generational Gap Year! Age of Overseas Work Exchange Rising - Middle-aged Taking Steps to Experience Life

In Taiwan, the employment opportunities for middle-aged individuals have been increasing, with more people bravely stepping out to experience the joys of working and traveling abroad. The CEO of an independent work platform noted that Japan has been facing a labor shortage in recent years. As a result, besides regular working holidays, many companies are also assisting applicants in obtaining official work visas through human resource agencies that find suitable candidates in Taiwan. However, obtaining a work visa for middle-aged individuals involves stricter examinations and higher standards. Whether for experiencing local life or planning relocation or retirement, more preparation is necessary.