Question 1

What is a Japan Student Visa and who needs it?

Accepted Answer

A Japan Student Visa is an official residence permit that allows foreign nationals to live and study in Japan for the duration of their approved academic program. Anyone planning to study at a Japanese university, language school, vocational college, or specialized institution for more than 90 days must obtain this visa before entering the country. The visa is usually issued after the school in Japan secures a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on the student’s behalf. The Study Visa also allows students to work part-time under specific conditions set by Japanese immigration authorities.

Question 2

What are the eligibility requirements for a Japan Student Visa?

Accepted Answer

To be eligible for a Japan Student Visa, applicants must receive an admission offer from a recognized educational institution in Japan. They must show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees and living expenses for at least one year. A valid passport, photographs, academic documents, and a completed Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) issued by the school are required. Some schools may request language proficiency proof or health documents. Applicants must also demonstrate a genuine intention to study and comply with Japan’s immigration rules throughout their stay.

Question 3

What documents are required to apply for a Japan Student Visa?

Accepted Answer

The required documents generally include a valid passport, completed visa application form, recent photographs, and the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE). Students must also provide academic transcripts, educational certificates, and a study plan outlining their goals in Japan. Financial evidence such as bank statements, sponsor letters, or scholarship proof is mandatory. Some institutions or embassies may request additional documents like guarantor details, accommodation information, or medical reports. Ensuring accuracy and completeness helps avoid delays in the visa process.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

The Japan Student Visa processing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks once the application is submitted to the embassy or consulate. However, obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) from Japanese immigration may take 1 to 3 months depending on the institution and processing workload. Students are advised to begin the application early to avoid delays during peak admission periods. Applying ahead allows sufficient time for travel arrangements, securing accommodation, and preparing for life in Japan.

Question 5

Can international students work in Japan on a Student Visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. International students can work part-time in Japan after receiving a “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” from immigration authorities. This permit allows up to 28 work hours per week during the academic term and up to 40 hours per week during holidays. Part-time work is common in retail, hospitality, tutoring, and service roles. Students must ensure that employment does not affect their attendance or academic performance, as violations can impact their visa status.

Question 6

How much money is required to show for the Japan Student Visa?

Accepted Answer

Students must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses for at least one year. Immigration authorities typically expect proof of around ¥2,000,000 to ¥3,000,000 to ensure the student can comfortably manage accommodation, food, transportation, and other needs. Financial documents may include bank statements, sponsor letters, scholarship awards, or income certificates from parents or guardians. Clear and well-documented financial proof strengthens the chances of approval.

Question 7

Can I bring my family to Japan on a Student Visa?

Accepted Answer

Students enrolled in long-term programs at approved universities or vocational institutions may be eligible to bring their spouse and children through the Dependent Visa category. Applicants must demonstrate financial capability, provide relationship documents, and show that suitable accommodation is available. Dependents may stay in Japan for the same duration as the student. Spouses can work part-time after obtaining the required permission, while children can attend school. Students in short-term language programs are typically not eligible to bring dependents.

Question 8

Can a Japan Student Visa be extended?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Japan Student Visa can be extended if the student continues their studies, progresses to a higher level of education, or requires additional time to complete their program. Extensions must be requested at the local immigration office before the current visa expires. Students must submit proof of enrollment, attendance records, academic progress, financial documents, and a valid passport. Poor attendance or lack of academic progress may affect renewal decisions, so maintaining good standing is essential.

Question 9

Can I switch from a Student Visa to a Work Visa in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Students can change from a Student Visa to a Work Visa after successfully completing their program and securing a job offer from a Japan-based employer. The employer must sponsor the Work Visa application, which falls under categories such as Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, International Services, or other approved fields. Immigration authorities review educational qualifications, job relevance, and attendance history before granting the new visa. This process can usually be completed inside Japan without leaving the country.

Question 10

What is the cost of applying for a Japan Student Visa?

Accepted Answer

Japan’s visa issuance fees are standardized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The typical cost is around ¥3,000 for a single-entry visa and ¥6,000 for a double-entry or multiple-entry visa. Fees are paid in the local currency of the Japanese embassy or consulate where the application is submitted. Additional expenses may include translation, notarization, medical certificates, or courier services, depending on the applicant’s situation. Students must also budget separately for tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and daily living costs.

University	Tuition (Annual)	Living Costs (Yearly)	Work Rights	Scholarships	Popular Programs
Nagoya University (G30)	¥535,800–600,000	¥700,000–1,000,000	28 hrs/week	MEXT, G30 Waiver	Engineering, Chemistry
Kyoto University (iUP)	¥535,800	¥800,000–1,000,000	28 hrs/week	Full/Partial	Economics, Agriculture
Waseda University	¥1,150,000–1,300,000	¥1,000,000	28 hrs/week	Fee Waiver	Liberal Arts, Politics
International Christian University	¥1,043,000	¥900,000–1,000,000	28 hrs/week	Merit Scholarships	IR, Liberal Arts
Temple University Japan	¥1,600,000–1,800,000	¥1,200,000	28 hrs/week	Merit 20–50%	Business, Comm
Osaka University	¥535,800	¥800,000–1,000,000	28 hrs/week	MEXT, Intl Scholarships	Science, Engineering
Tokyo International University (TIU)	¥1,670,000–1,770,000	¥900,000	28 hrs/week	30–100%	Business, IR
Ritsumeikan APU	¥1,300,000	¥900,000	28 hrs/week	30–100%	Management, Tourism
Hiroshima University	¥535,800	¥800,000–950,000	28 hrs/week	Special Scholarship	Global Studies
Yokohama National University	¥535,800–600,000	¥850,000–950,000	28 hrs/week	JASSO	Engineering, Business

University	Tuition (Yearly)	Scholarships
University of Tokyo	¥535,800–600,000	MEXT, UTokyo Fellowship
Kyoto University	¥535,800–600,000	Graduate Scholarships
Tohoku University	¥535,800	JASSO, MEXT
Osaka University	¥535,800	Global Fellowship
Nagoya University	¥535,800–600,000	G30 Scholarship
Hokkaido University	¥535,800–600,000	President’s Award
Tokyo Tech	¥635,000	Tokyo Tech Fellowship
International University of Japan	¥1,480,000	Full/Partial Scholarships
Ritsumeikan University	¥1,000,000–1,200,000	RU Global Award
Kobe University	¥535,800	Merit Award

Institution	Annual Tuition	Scholarships
Japan Electronics College	¥1,100,000	JASSO, MEXT
Tokyo Designer Gakuin College	¥1,200,000	TDG Merit
Osaka College of Design & IT	¥1,000,000	Osaka Gov
Shizuoka Training College	¥850,000	Local Bursary
Hokkaido College of Business & IT	¥900,000	Tuition Waiver
Kyoto College of Tourism & Hotel	¥1,100,000	Hospitality Award
Fukuoka College of Engineering	¥950,000	JASSO
Tokyo Business & Language College	¥1,000,000	Merit Scholarships
Japan College of Foreign Languages	¥1,000,000	MEXT Grants
Kobe College of Computing	¥950,000	Merit Scholarship

Program	Estimated Fee (USD)
Bachelor’s	$20,000 – $40,000
Master’s	$12,000 – $16,000
Doctorate	$5,000 – $10,000

Intake	Programs	Deadlines
January	UG & PG	Jan–Aug
April (Major Intake)	UG & PG	Apr–Oct

Study in Japan

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Study in Japan: A Complete Guide for Australian Students

Why Study in Japan?

Why Apply for a Japan Student Visa?

Key Reasons to Apply

Documents You Receive After Entering Japan

Japan’s Education System

Popular Universities Offering English Programs

Top Universities for Bachelor’s Degrees (UG)

Top Universities for Master’s Degrees (PG)

Top Vocational Colleges for Australian Students

Top Japanese Language Schools

Best Courses to Study in Japan

Top Undergrad Courses

Top Master’s Courses

Japan University Fees (Estimated Annual Costs)

Japan Study Intakes

Eligibility for Japan Student Visa

Japan Student Visa Requirements

Benefits of Studying in Japan

How to Apply for a Japan Student Visa

Japan Student Visa Fees

Japan Student Visa Processing Time

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Frequently Asked Questions