Getting a Japan student visa – what you should know

Japan is a country that has made its mark in the world as being a hub for education and industry development. Pursuing the next stage of your academic career in Japan is one of the best ways to gain exposure to the international corporate world. Understanding the process of applying for a Japan student visa can streamline your preparations for your academic life.

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about getting a Japan student visa!

Japan student visa – Important Information

The Japanese government has a remarkable visa exemption policy in place for citizens from several countries around the world. However, the exemption is only valid for short-term purposes such as attending conferences, conducting business, short-term courses, or tourism visits. 

If you are considering studying in Japan, it is important to apply for a Japan student visa without any legal hassles. 

What kind of Japan student visa should I apply for? 

The first step to applying for a Japan student visa is determining what kind of visa you require (on the course of your study). 

The 3 types of Japanese student visas are as follows: 

Japan student visa for short-term courses (up to 90 days) 

• Different nationalities around the world can visit Japan for a maximum period of 90 days on a Japan student visa waiver. 
• During the period of time that you are in the country, you can consider taking short-term courses such as language courses. 
• It is essential that you have a return ticket in order to be eligible for a visa waiver of 90 days. 

Japan student visa for less than 20 weeks but more than 90 days 

• If you are a citizen of countries such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, New Zealand, Ireland, and Germany, you can extend your period of stay by 90 more days. 
• This is a process that initiates once you apply to the Ministry of Justice in Japan (before the first 90 days of your visa waiver have expired). 

Japan student visa for long-term courses (20 weeks to 2 years) 

• This type of Japan student visa is among the most popular types of visas for students pursuing higher education in the country. 
• You need to be a minimum of 18 years of age and should have completed 12 years in school in order to be eligible for this student visa. 

What are the Japan student visa requirements? 

Applying for a student visa in Japan will require you to submit several documents during the registration process. These include: 

• The filled  Japan student visa application form which you should download from the official website of the Japanese authorities. 
• Your valid and original passport, along with 2 to 3 photocopies. 
• Your passport-size photographs need to adhere to the following specifications: 
  • High-quality picture (sharp, clear, and focused). 
  • Your face should be completely visible. 
  • You should be staring directly at the camera, with a neutral expression. 
  • A plain white background is essential, without any shadows, colors, or design. 
  • The photograph should be within the last 3 months before you apply for a Japan student visa. 
  • The dimensions of the photograph are as follows – 4 centimeters by 3 centimeters (4cm x 3cm). 

• You will have to also provide an authenticated Certificate of Eligibility. 
• A Letter of Admission to a Japanese educational institution is a necessity. It should have clear details about the course and its duration. 
• All academic and/or professional qualifications are required (diplomas, undergraduate degrees, and transcripts). 
• You should also submit proof of financial support or resources to sustain your stay in the country. Research suggested that the average financial requirement of a student in Japan is approximately JPY 2 million for one year. 

You will need to present one or more of the following documents as proof during your Japan student visa application: 

1. Income or bank statements. 
2. Proof of a scholarship awarded. 
3. Proof of financial aid. 
4. A Letter of Sponsorship along with the sponsor’s bank statements and proof of income. 

• In few cases, you will also have to submit a Cover or Motivational Letter stating the reason for your travel in Japan. 
• Lastly, you will have to submit a Letter of Guarantee or Letter of Invitation from the educational institution that has offered you a seat. 

What is the application procedure for a Japan student visa? 

The application process for a Japan student visa is as follows: 

1. Send all the required documents to the ISI Education Center. Once received, you will be directed to the payment gateway where you will have to pay the application fee. 
2. The ISI will apply for a COE (Certificate of Eligibility) at the ISA (Immigration Services Agency) in Japan on your behalf. 
3. If the ISA judges that you are eligible for admission, you will be issued a Letter of Acceptance and an approved COE. 

4. After the issuance of the COE, you will also be provided with an invoice for tuition and related fees. The initial payments need to be completed by bank remittance before the due date. 
5. After confirmation of your payment, you will receive original documents and information on how to enter the country. 
6. You can then proceed to apply for a visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. 
7. You need to book a flight and share your e-ticket details as an image attached to your visa application form. 

Key Takeaways 

• Japan is a country that is replete with remarkable educational infrastructure and high-quality training. 
• Pursuing your higher education in this country will equip you with a wide range of skills that are currently in demand in the international corporate world. 
• Understanding the different types of visas, documentation required, and the application process can help smoothen the transition to Japan for your education. 

Liked this blog? Read next: UK student visa | A detailed 5-step guide to get the visa!

FAQs 

Q1. What is ‘campus mate-J’? 

Answer – ‘Campusmate – J’ is an online portal provided by the ISI Japanese Language School to help support student life in the country. 

Q2. How will I receive my Certificate of Eligibility? 

Answer – The school you apply to will be in charge of handling your Certificate of Eligibility application on your behalf. All correspondences will be taken care of by the school. 

Q3. Do I need to submit a certificate of previous Japanese studies? 

Answer – Some universities in Japan may require you to submit a certificate of previous Japanese studies. This is, however, dependent on the school you apply to.