Step by Step Guide to Japan Student Visa Application

Are you dreaming of studying in Japan — a country celebrated for its world-class education, cutting-edge technology, and deep cultural heritage? Whether you're planning to enroll in a university, Japanese language school, or a specialized program, your journey begins with understanding the Japan student visa requirements.

Securing a student visa for Japan is a crucial step toward turning your academic goals into reality. While the process may seem complex, knowing how to get a student visa in Japan makes it manageable and stress-free. This Japan student visa guide covers all you need to know — from required documents and financial requirements, to visa categories and intake timelines.

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Unlike short-term tourist stays (which are visa-exempt for some nationalities), international students must apply for a long-term study visa. This visa grants access to prestigious universities, vocational colleges, and Japanese language schools, ensuring you're legally prepared to live and learn in Japan.

Check the official updates and release schedule in our JLPT July Exam Result 2025 guide

In this article, we’ll walk you through:

• How to get a Japanese student visa
• Japan student visa application steps
• Student visa requirements for Japan, including finances and eligibility
• Required documents for a Japan student visa

Tips for a smooth application process

Let’s dive in and help you unlock the doors to your dream education in Japan.

Requirement for Student Visa in Japan 

If you're planning to study in Japan, understanding the student visa requirements for Japan is the first step to a successful application. To obtain a Japanese student visa, you’ll need to gather several essential documents that prove your identity, purpose of study, and financial stability. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:

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 Required Documents for Japanese Student Visa Application

Completed Japan Student Visa Application Form
Download the official form from the Japanese embassy or consulate website and fill it accurately.

Valid Passport (Original Photocopies)
Ensure your passport is up to date and valid for the entire duration of your intended stay.

Passport-Sized Photographs
Follow these exact specifications:

Size: 4 cm x 3 cm

• White, plain background with no patterns or shadows
• Must be taken recently (within 6 months)
• Neutral facial expression, face fully visible
• High quality: clear, focused, and sharp image

Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Issued by your accepting institution in Japan, the COE confirms your admission and is required for the visa application.

Thinking about applying? Discover everything you need to know in our MEXT Scholarship 2025–2026 Guide for Indian Students

Letter of Admission
This document from your Japanese language school, university, or vocational institution should detail your course, duration, and start date.

Academic or Professional Qualifications
Include copies of transcripts, degrees, or certificates from previous studies or work experience.

Proof of Financial Capacity
You must demonstrate your ability to financially support yourself during your stay.

The minimum financial requirement for a Japanese student visa is approximately ¥2 million per year (about 12–13 lakh INR).

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Acceptable proofs include:

• Bank statements
• Scholarship confirmation
• Financial sponsor letter and income proof

Meeting these Japan student visa requirements ensures a smooth visa processing experience. Make sure all your documents are accurate, up to date, and translated into Japanese or English where necessary.

 Want help with the application process or document verification? Contact Team Language Services for personalized visa assistance!

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Financial Documents Required for Japan Student Visa

1. Bank/Income Statements
2. Proof of Scholarship
3. Proof of Financial Aid
4. Letter of Sponsorship (if any)
5. Letter of Invitation and Letter of Guarantee issued from the educational institution (if required)
6. A cover letter stating the reason for travel.
7. Send these documents to your school so that they can apply for the Certificate of Eligibility

How to apply for a Japan Student Visa?

The process of application for Student Visa is divided into two parts:

• Obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility
• Submitting the Japan Student Visa application

Obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility:

For obtaining the COE you must send your required documents to the school beforehand, because the school remains responsible for getting you the COE. The purpose of the COE is to support the actual visa application process. The COE is merely a prerequisite. The process of application of the COE takes between one to three months.

Application for Japan Visa

After you receive the COE from your school, you will have to follow the below mentioned steps:

• Contact a Japanese Embassy/Consulate or visa application agency near you.
• Keep the required documents for your visa handy.
• Submit the application either directly at the Consulate/Embassy or at the visa application agency. If the Consulate/Embassy considers it necessary, you may also have to go back for an interview or to submit additional documents.

For the latest insights and application tips, check out our MEXT Scholarship 2026 Guide for Indian Students

How long does it take to process a Japan Student Visa?

The application process may take between 5-10 working days. However, the application to receive the COE can take up to 3 months.

What is the duration of the Japan Student Visa?

The Japan Student Visa is issued for the following durations:

• 6 months
• 1 year
• 1 year and 3 months
• 2 years
• 2 years and 3 months

However, regardless of the duration of your duration of the visa, you can apply for an extension of your stay before the visa expires.

How much is the Visa Fee?

• Single Entry Visa: 3,000 Yen
• Dual entry or Multiple entry Visa: 6,000 Yen
• Transit Visa: 700 Yen

Studying in Japan can be a life-changing experience, offering world-class education and an opportunity to immerse yourself in a unique culture. However, to begin this journey, you must first secure a Japan student visa. 

The Japanese student visa allows individuals to pursue higher studies at universities, vocational schools, and educational institutions in Japan. This long-term visa requires various supporting documents such as passport photos, admission letters, and proof of financial stability. 

The application process involves obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through your school and submitting it to a Japanese embassy or consulate. This guide helps simplify the entire process and provides insights into the necessary steps for obtaining your student visa for Japan.

Looking for budget-friendly options? Explore our curated list of Affordable Japanese Language Courses Near Me to find the perfect fit

FAQs:

1. What is a Japan student visa?
A Japan student visa is a long-term visa that allows international students to study at Japanese educational institutions, including universities, vocational schools, and Japanese language institutes. It enables students to attend full-time courses, pursue language proficiency, and, in some cases, work part-time under specific regulations. This visa is essential for anyone planning to learn Japanese in Japan legally and securely.

2. What are the requirements for a Japan student visa?
To apply for a Japan student visa, you generally need:

• A valid passport and passport-sized photographs
• Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by your Japanese school
• Letter of admission from the Japanese institution
• Academic qualifications and transcripts
• Proof of financial support, such as bank statements or scholarships
• Cover letter explaining your purpose of study
  These documents ensure that you meet Japan’s legal and financial requirements to study abroad.

3. How do I apply for a Japan student visa?
The application process involves two main steps:

Obtain the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from your Japanese school or language institute.

Submit your visa application along with all required documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Institutes like TLS, a top Japanese language institute in Delhi, also provide guidance for smooth application and COE submission.

4. How long does it take to process a Japan student visa?
Processing the visa itself usually takes 5–10 working days at the embassy. However, obtaining the COE can take 1–3 months, depending on the institution and document verification. Planning ahead is crucial if you aim to join a Japanese language course in Japan for a specific session.

5. What is the financial requirement for a Japan student visa?
The financial requirement is approximately 2 million yen per year. You can demonstrate financial support via:

• Bank statements showing sufficient funds
• Scholarships or grants
• Letters of sponsorship or financial aid
  Meeting the financial criteria ensures your stay in Japan will be sustainable while attending a Japan language course.
• 6. How much is the Japan student visa fee?
  Visa fees vary based on type:
• Single Entry Visa: 3,000 yen
• Dual or Multiple Entry Visa: 6,000 yen
• Transit Visa: 700 yen
  Fees are payable at the Japanese embassy or consulate during application.

7. Can I work while on a Japan student visa?
Yes, part-time work is allowed with a proper work permit issued by the Japanese immigration office. Students can work up to 28 hours per week during school sessions and full-time during vacations, which can help offset living costs while attending a Japanese language course.

8. Can online Japanese courses help in obtaining a Japan student visa?
While online courses enhance your language proficiency, a Japan student visa typically requires admission to an accredited Japanese language institute in Japan. However, online preparation can improve your chances of acceptance and JLPT performance.

9. What documents are required from the Japanese language institute?
The institute must provide:

• Letter of admission
• Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
• Course details including duration, fees, and mode of study
  Institutes like TLS also guide students in preparing these documents correctly for visa submission.

10. How can TLS help with Japan student visa applications?
At TLS, the best Japanese language institute in Delhi, we offer comprehensive support for Japan student visa applications:

• Guidance for COE and document submission
• Assistance with embassy procedures
• Preparation for JLPT exams
• Job placement and career guidance for Japan
  Studying at TLS ensures you have expert support while pursuing a Japanese language course and planning your academic journey in Japan.