If you are an international student and intend to study in Japan for more than 90 days then you need a Japanese Student Visa. It falls under the General Visa category of Japan. In this article, I will tell you complete details from required documents to application procedure for Japanese Student Visa.
What Documents Do You Need for Japanese Student Visa
- A valid passport
- A filled Japan visa application form
- A passport-size photo
- Letter of admission from a Japanese school or university
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Academic records
- Scholarship proof (if you have one)
- Financial proof
What is the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
The COE is very important. It’s issued by the Immigration Bureau in Japan and confirms that you meet the visa conditions. You don’t apply for this yourself — the Japanese school or university where you got admission will do it for you. They’ll ask you for some documents and then handle the COE application on your behalf.
Once the COE is ready, they’ll send it to you by post. You’ll need this when applying for the actual visa.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
- Check your local Japanese Embassy’s website
Look for the latest visa instructions specific to your country. Some embassies don’t accept direct applications and might work through third-party visa centers. - Gather your documents
Make sure your passport, visa form, photo, admission letter, COE, and financial proof are all ready and valid. - Book an appointment
Most embassies now require you to book an appointment online before visiting. Don’t just show up without checking. - Visit the Embassy or Visa Center
Bring your complete set of documents and submit your visa application. Sometimes, they’ll collect your biometric data too. - Pay the visa fee
Some embassies ask you to pay online, while others take cash at the counter. Again, it depends on your local embassy rules. - Wait for your visa to process
In most cases, it takes 5–6 working days. Once approved, your passport will be returned with a visa sticker. - Fly to Japan!
After you arrive, you’ll receive a Residence Card at the airport. Keep this safe — it’s very important while you’re in Japan.
Japan Student Visa Duration & Work Rules
| Feature | Details |
| Maximum Visa Duration | Up to 4 years and 3 months (depends on your course length) |
| Part-Time Work Allowed | Yes, students can work part-time |
| Work Hours Limit | Up to 28 hours per week |
| Special Permission Needed? | Yes, you must apply for a separate work permit from immigration authorities |
Also read this: How Pakistanis Can Apply for Bahrain E-Visa
