The Japan Student Visa is required by Japanese Educational Institutions such as Schools, colleges, and Universities. Everyone who is not a Japanese National has to get a Japan Student Visa. In this article, we will tell you How to Apply for the Japan Student Visa. A step-by-step process, including the requirements, and from where you can fill out the application for the Japanese Student Visa. The Japan Student Visa comes under the ‘General Visa”. Foreign students can be employed part-time for up to 28 hours per week.
Japan is a hub for international students as many students go to Japan each year for education. Japan is a very affordable, safe, and stable country. Obtaining a Student Visa in Japan is relatively simple. Getting admission to Japanese Universities is also relatively easier than in other countries such as the UK, Australia, Canada, USA. Follow the rules below.
Requirements of a Japan Student Visa
When you apply for the Japan Student Visa, you will need all of the documents listed below.
- Passport
- Visa application form which you can get from here
- One passport-size picture with dimensions 45mm ×35mm.
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
- Letter of Admission into the Japanese educational institution, indicating the duration and details of the course.
- Previous academic transcripts, degrees, certificates/
- Proof of Scholarship
- Proof of Financial income if not granted a scholarship.
In addition to the above documents, the Embassy of Japan in your country might ask for additional documents. For details please refer to the website of a Japanese embassy or consulate in your area.
What is Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and How to Get that?
The COE is issued by the Japanese Immigration Services. It is required to obtain a Long-term Visa to stay in Japan. You have to send several documents to the University in Japan. They will apply for the Certificate of Eligibility. With the COE you can apply for the Japan Student Visa.
Duration of the Visa
The Visa is valid for 4 years and 3 months or less.
How to Apply for the Japan Student Visa?
After receiving the Certificate of Eligibility from your university, the next step is to apply for the Visa. The step-by-step application process is given below.
- First, refer to the Japanese Embassy/Consulate website Links.
- Select your country and go to the Visa section.
- Some Japanese embassies don’t accept direct applications. That is why check the Japanese embassy website of your country and follow the process.
- Collect the documents, print the complete form, and bring it with you to the Japan Visa Application Centre
- Book an appointment online.
- Pay the Visa Fee online or on the day of the appointment.
- Submit your Visa to the Japanese Embassy in your country.
- Once you receive your passport with a Visa sticker on it. You can now Travel to Japan.
- Once you arrive, you will receive a Residence Card.
Processing Time
The Processing time for the Japan Student Visa is around 5-6 working Days.
Conclusion: This was all about the Japan Student Visa. Get an admission First, get the COE, and apply for the Visa.
Additional Tips:
- Plan Early: The application process may seem straightforward, but it’s always best to start planning early. Factor in processing times for both the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and the visa itself.
- Financial Support: Be prepared to show sufficient financial resources to cover your living expenses in Japan. This could be through personal funds, scholarships, or sponsorship.
- Learn Japanese: While not mandatory, learning basic Japanese can enhance your experience in Japan. Consider taking language courses before you go or while you wait for your visa.
- Part-Time Work: If you plan to work part-time while studying, understand the regulations and limitations. Remember, your primary purpose in Japan is to be a student.
- Register at your Local Municipality: Once you arrive in Japan, register with your local municipality. This will allow you to access various public services.