Japanese Student Visa: Learn the Requirements and Process

There is something about Japanese culture that arouses passions around the world. Many are those who confess to being geeks of its gastronomy, customs, anime, manga or language. Also of its traditional values and its avant-garde approach. Attracted by this and by its excellent education system, thousands of foreigners apply for a student visa in Japan each year to pursue their studies in the land of the rising sun.

Are you too thinking of packing your bags to learn Japanese or sitting in the classrooms of such prestigious institutions as the University of Tokyo or Kyoto University? Wait, it’s not as simple as buying a flight and applying. For starters, you’ll need to get a Japanese student visa.

Before embarking on your journey to study in this country known for its cutting-edge technology and innovation, there’s a process you’ll need to navigate. Before marveling at ancient temples, strolling among cherry blossoms, or admiring futuristic architecture, you’ll face a somewhat tedious—but necessary—procedure. It’s a common experience for anyone seeking a study visa, whether for this country, the United States, or almost any other destination. While it may seem daunting, it’s entirely manageable. In this guide we’ll walk you through the steps. Explaining the types of visas available, the required documents, and the associated costs.

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In what situations do you need a student visa in Japan?

Japan stands at the forefront of advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology. Making it a global reference point in numerous fields and a highly sought-after academic destination. During the 23/24 academic year alone, Japan welcomed over 279,274 international students, according to the Japanese Ministry of Education. However, becoming one of these fortunate students involves more than simply booking a ticket and arriving at your chosen institution. Even securing admission isn’t enough. To take your place in their classrooms, you’ll first need to obtain a visa. Let’s explore the most common scenarios that require a visa application:

• Higher education and formal academic programs: If you are enrolling in a university degree, master’s degree, doctorate or long-term courses at accredited institutions.
• Long-term language courses: If you plan to study Japanese for more than three months at certified academies.
• Exchange or academic mobility programs: For students participating in university agreements or international scholarships.
• Technical or vocational programs: Practical studies in areas such as technology, design or vocational training.

Are you thinking more along the lines of a short course? For intensive language courses, workshops or short seminars, lasting less than 90 days, you do not need a student visa in Japan. A tourist visa is sufficient.

Types of visas to study in Japan

Not all academic experiences in Japan are the same. Therefore, neither are the permits you will need. The type of visa you will need will depend on the program you enroll in, the length of your studies and whether you plan to combine your stay with other activities, such as internships or part-time jobs.

Let’s take a look at the most common visas for studying in Japan and who they are for. Knowing them will allow you to identify the one that best suits your goals and start planning your new life in the land of the rising sun.

1. Student visa (Ryugaku Visa)

The Ryugaku Visa is the most common Japanese student visa. You will need it if you plan to study full-time. It is designed for students enrolling in higher academic programs, universities, accredited language schools or technical training institutions.

It allows you to reside in Japan for the duration of your studies and access additional opportunities, such as part-time work under certain conditions. To apply, you will need to have a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the Japanese Ministry of Justice (arranged through the educational institution where you will be studying).

2. Temporary visitor visa (Bunka Katsudo Visa)

If you are going to take a short course in Japan, the Temporary Visitor Visa is a more flexible alternative. You can use it to sign up for programs of less than 90 days, such as specialized workshops, intensive language courses or short-term academic activities.

It is perfect for short stays focused on specific training. However, this visa does not allow you to work while you study. Therefore, you must demonstrate that you have the necessary funds to cover your expenses during your stay.

3. Cultural internship visa (Tanki Taizai Visa)

The Cultural Internship Visa is intended for those who wish to train in specific cultural areas, such as Japanese calligraphy, traditional art, martial arts or tea ceremony. It focuses on non-academic activities that require the supervision of certified teachers or institutions.

Although it is not a formal academic visa, it allows you to learn unique skills that are part of Japan’s cultural heritage. The duration will depend on the program, but usually ranges from six months to one year.

4. Technical training visa (Gino Jisshuu Visa)

Finally, if you want to receive technical and professional training in Japan, you will need a Gino Jisshuu Visa. This is for those who want to learn practical skills in specific sectors. Such as technology, engineering, mechanics or medical care, while gaining real-world experience in Japanese companies.

This type of visa is part of a hands-on learning program where the student not only studies, but also actively participates in the work environment. It usually has a duration ranging from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the course and the sponsoring company.

The most interesting thing about this type of visa is that it allows working under specific conditions, as long as it is directly related to the training received. However, it is a highly regulated permit and is usually aimed at students who already have a formal agreement between their country of origin and a Japanese organization.

Benefits of visas to study in Japan

Applying for a visa to study in Japan not only opens the door to a quality education in one of the most innovative countries in the world. It also allows you to enjoy a unique experience: study, work in some cases and immerse yourself in a culture that combines tradition and modernity in an exceptional way. Depending on the type of visa you get, you will be entitled to some benefits that can completely change your experience in the country.

Let’s see what each of the most common visas to study in Japan allows you to do and how you can make the most of your time there.

Student visa (Ryugaku Visa): what can you do with it?

The Ryugaku Visa is the most comprehensive permit if you plan to pursue higher education, language courses or technical training programs in Japan. These are its main advantages:

• Extended residence in the country: Allows you to stay for the duration of the academic program, with the option to extend your visa if you decide to continue your studies.
• Part-time work: You can apply for an additional permit to work up to 28 hours per week during the course and 40 hours during vacations. It is ideal to cover part of your expenses and gain professional experience.
• Access to accredited institutions: You can study at universities, recognized Japanese language schools and top-notch technical training centers.
• Post-study opportunities: If you successfully complete your training, you will have options to switch to a work visa and continue your professional development in Japan.

Temporary visitor visa (Bunka Katsudo Visa): ideal for short-term stays

The Temporary visitor visa is a perfect alternative for those seeking to study in Japan for only a few weeks or months. It is intended for courses of up to 90 days, such as intensive language programs, workshops or specialized seminars. Benefits include:

• Easy and fast processing: The requirements are less stringent than those of the Ryugaku Visa, which speeds up the application process.
• Flexibility for short stays: You can study at accredited academies or institutions without the need for a long-term commitment.
• Cultural exploration: This visa allows you to take advantage of your free time to learn about Japanese culture, travel within the country and live unique experiences.

Cultural internship visa (Tanki Taizai Visa): a unique experience

If your goal is to learn traditional disciplines such as tea ceremony, Japanese calligraphy or martial arts, the cultural internship visa is perfect for you. More than an academic permit, it is an invitation to delve into the Japanese cultural heritage. Its main advantages are:

• Training in traditional disciplines: You will be able to study under the guidance of specialized teachers and participate in programs that combine practice and theory.
• Duration adapted to your training: Stays can vary from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the type of internship and the institution that accepts you.
• Cultural and immersive approach: You will have direct access to the richness of Japanese culture, allowing you to develop unique skills and understand its traditions from the inside.

Technical training visa: study and work at the same time

As we said, the Gino Jisshuu Visa is aimed at students seeking technical training in specific sectors, such as technology, engineering or health. It is ideal if you want to combine studies with practical experience in Japanese companies. These are its most important benefits:

• Training in real environments: Allows you to train directly in companies participating in technical apprenticeship programs.
• Paid work: You can work under regulated conditions as long as the activities are related to your training. It is an excellent way to gain professional experience and cover your expenses.
• Duration adjusted to the program: This type of visa usually covers between 6 months and 2 years, depending on the duration of the course and the agreement between your home country and the Japanese organization.

Requirements for each type of visa

Do you already know the type of visa you need? In that case, we have reached one of the most important points: to know if you meet all the requirements for your application to be accepted. Each visa has specific criteria to ensure that your stay in Japan is legitimate and in line with your academic or professional goals.

Let’s review the main requirements for the most common visas. By knowing them, you will be able to gather all the necessary documentation and avoid having your application rejected.

Requirements to be eligible for a student visa

To get the Ryugaku Visa, the first thing you must demonstrate is that you have a solid academic plan and the means to carry it out. Aim for:

• Official letter of admission: Being accepted to an accredited university, language school or institution in Japan. This document is the key proof that your stay has a legitimate academic purpose.
• Demonstrable financial ability: Having the necessary funds to cover tuition, accommodation and living expenses during your stay. You can justify this with bank statements, sponsorship letters or scholarship documents.
• Clear study plan: Present a concrete academic objective that explains your purpose in Japan.
• Criminal record certificate (if required): In some cases, you will be asked for this document to prove that you have no criminal record.

If you intend to work part-time, you will need to apply for an additional permit upon arrival in Japan. This can be done at the Immigration Office and will allow you to work up to 28 hours per week without affecting your studies.

Requirements for applying for a temporary visitor visa (Tokubetsu Taizai)

Applying for a visa for short courses or programs of less than 90 days may seem simple, but don’t underestimate the process. Although the procedures are more streamlined, you will need to present clear documentation to justify your stay in Japan. Prepare:

• Course acceptance letter: Issued by the institution organizing the academic program or training activity. It must detail the content of the course and its duration.
• Round-trip airline ticket: Proof that your stay in Japan will be temporary and that you will return to your home country at the end of the course.
• Proof of funds: Proof that you have sufficient resources to cover all travel, living and study expenses.
• Course itinerary: A detailed summary of the dates and activities planned during your stay.

It is important to remember that this visa does not allow you to work in Japan. You must demonstrate that you can cover all expenses without the need for temporary employment.

Cultural internship visa application requirements

If you want to study traditional Japanese disciplines, you will need to prepare an application that supports both your purpose and your commitment. The cultural internship visa requires specific documents that support your participation in the program and your host institution.

• Letter of acceptance from a certified teacher or institution: This document must specify the type of internship, the duration of the program and the details of the training.
• Proof of sufficient funds: Prove that you have the financial resources to cover your stay and training expenses. You can submit bank statements or letters of sponsorship.
• Academic or professional background: In some cases, you will have to prove your previous experience in the discipline you wish to practice.

Requirements to apply for the technical training visa (Gino Jisshuu Visa)

Obtaining this visa requires you to meet very specific requirements. It is not enough to have an interest in technical training. You will need a formal offer, documentation supporting your qualifications and proof that the program meets the conditions required by the Japanese authorities. The requirements to be granted are:

• Letter of acceptance from the sponsoring company or institution: This should include details about the type of training, the duration of the program and the work activities you will be doing.
• Formal agreement between countries: In many cases, this visa is supported by agreements between your home country and Japanese organizations.
• Savings to support yourself: Demonstrate that you have the resources to cover your personal expenses, even if the training is paid.
• Have a technical training plan: A document describing the practical skills you will acquire and how the program will be implemented.
• Have basic training: Proof that you have the basic training necessary to participate in the technical program.

It is important to comply with the requirements to the letter. This visa is usually highly regulated and supervised by the Japanese authorities.

How to apply for the student visa in Japan?

As we already told you, the process is somewhat tedious. The good news is that having the steps clear and the documentation prepared, everything becomes easier. Let’s see what you need to prepare, how to submit it and what to expect during the process.

Documents you need to submit to obtain a student visa (Ryugaku Visa)

The Ryugaku Visa requires a series of documents to prove your admission, your funds and your personal situation. To avoid delays, it is important that everything is up to date, well organized and, in some cases, translated into Japanese or English.

• Letter of admission: You must present an official letter of acceptance issued by a university, language school or accredited institution in Japan.
• Proof of financial solvency: You must demonstrate that you have the necessary funds to cover tuition, accommodation and living expenses during your stay. This can be proven by bank statements, letters of sponsorship or scholarships.
• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Japan.
• Application form: Complete the official visa application form, with all your personal and academic information.
• Criminal record certificate: In some cases, this document is requested to confirm that you do not have a criminal record.
• Recent photograph: Passport size, in color and white background, according to official specifications.
• Proof of purpose of travel: You will need to submit a detailed study plan and the academic goals you expect to achieve in Japan.

Documents you must present to obtain a temporary visitor’s visa (Tokubetsu Taizai)

If you are going to study in a short program, the temporary visitor visa has fewer requirements, but you must be sure to justify your stay in the country well. These are the key documents you should prepare:

• Letter of invitation or acceptance: Issued by the institution where you will take your course or academic activity. It should include details about the duration and content of the program.
• Valid passport: It must have at least six months of validity and enough space for the visa.
• Proof of financial resources: Prove that you have sufficient resources to cover your travel, living and study expenses. You can submit bank statements, pay stubs or letters of sponsorship.
• Application form: Complete the official temporary visa form with clear and accurate information.
• Detailed itinerary: Include the dates of entry and exit of the country, as well as a description of the activities planned during your stay.
• Round-trip airline tickets: Demonstrate that you plan to return to your home country upon completion of the course.
• Passport-size photograph: Recent image, in color and white background, according to official specifications.

Documents you must submit to obtain a cultural internship visa (Bunka Kouryuu)

Although the process is less rigorous than the student visa, you will need specific documentation to support your goals and the program you have applied for. These are the key documents you will need to submit:

• Letter of acceptance from the teacher or certified institution: Issued by the center where you will be doing your internship. It should include details of the program, its duration and the nature of the cultural training.
• Valid passport: Make sure it is valid for the duration of your stay and has visa pages available.
• Proof of funds: Bank statements, sponsorship letters or documents proving that you can afford to pay for your training, accommodation and living expenses in Japan.
• Official application form: Completed with your personal details, objectives of your stay and program details. You will find this document at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
• Learning plan: A clear description of your objectives during the cultural internship, the type of discipline you will study and how it relates to your personal or professional development.
• Academic or professional background: In some cases, you will be asked to provide proof of previous experience in the discipline you wish to learn.
• Recent photograph: Passport size, color and white background, according to official specifications.

Documents you must submit to obtain a technical training visa (Gino Jisshuu Visa)

The Gino Jisshuu Visa is designed for those seeking to combine technical training and work experience in Japanese companies. Due to the nature of this visa, the requirements are stricter and highly regulated. Make sure you have the following:

• Letter of acceptance from the sponsoring company or institution: Issued by the Japanese organization that will host you. It must specify the duration of the program, the type of training you will receive and the activities you will undertake during your stay.
• Formal agreement between countries: In most cases, this visa is supported by agreements between your home country and the Japanese organization sponsoring the program.
• Valid passport: Must cover your entire stay in Japan and have visa pages available.
• Official application form: Completed with all the details of the training program and the details of the sponsoring company. You can download it from the Japanese Embassy website or pick it up at their offices.
• Previous academic or technical certificates: You will need to demonstrate that you have the minimum education required to participate in the technical program. These documents may include degrees, diplomas or professional certificates.
• Proof of funds: Even if the program includes remuneration, you will need to provide bank statements, pay stubs or letters of sponsorship to demonstrate your ability to cover additional expenses.
• Technical training plan: A detailed document describing the practical skills you will acquire, the teaching method and the work environment in which you will participate.
• Recent photograph: Passport size, white background and according to the requested specifications.

Interviews and questions

In some cases, Japanese embassies or consulates may require a personal interview as part of the application process. This step has a single purpose. Confirm the authenticity of your application and to make sure that you meet all the requirements for the visa you are applying for. If you prepare well, you should have no problem.

Some questions you may be asked during the interview are:

• Why have you chosen to study in Japan? Explain your academic and personal reasons. Mention the quality of Japanese education, the program you have chosen and how it aligns with your future goals.
• What does the program you are going to do consist of? Give clear details about the course, technical training or cultural internship you are applying for.
• How will you finance your stay in Japan? Provide a solid answer including personal savings, sponsors, scholarships or family support.
• What will you do after completing your studies? The embassy wants to confirm that your plan includes returning to your home country or continuing with well-defined academic or professional goals.
• Do you have any relatives or acquaintances in Japan? If yes, please provide brief and clear information about your relationship and their residency details.

Keys to pass the interview:

• Answer confidently and clearly. Avoid hesitation or ambiguous answers.
• Bring with you all the original documents that you have submitted in your application. It is common for the interviewer to review them during the conversation.
• Maintain a professional and respectful attitude. Punctuality and formality are highly valued in the Japanese visa application process.

The interview can be straightforward if you’ve thoroughly prepared your application and clearly understand your reasons for studying in Japan. Approach it with confidence, honesty, and solid preparation to secure your visa.

Where to apply for visas?

Okay, you’re all set. Now, where do you have to submit the documents to be granted? The procedures combine face-to-face processes and online consultations. The key is to be familiar with the channels available depending on your country of origin. If you follow each step carefully, the process will be much simpler than it seems.

Let’s see where and how you can submit your application so that you don’t waste time or miss any documents at the key moment.

1. Japanese embassies and consulates

Japanese embassies and consulates are the main point of contact for any visa application. This is the place where you will submit your documents, resolve doubts and, if necessary, have an interview.

• Check in your country: Locate the Japanese embassy or consulate that corresponds to you in the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. There you will find addresses, opening hours and specific requirements according to your type of visa.
• Appointment: Many embassies require that you schedule an appointment in advance. This is especially important in times of high demand. Such as just before the start of the academic year in Japan.
• Document submission: Bring all of your organized documentation: official form, passport, recent photograph and any additional proof depending on the type of visa. If anything is missing, you will have to come back and delay the process.

If you live far from the embassy, plan your trip ahead of time. Checking opening hours and making sure you don’t forget any paperwork can save you a second visit.

2. Authorized visa application centers

In some countries where many visas are applied for, such as India or the Philippines, embassies collaborate with authorized centers that facilitate the process. Known as Visa Application Centres (VACs), they make things easier for those who live far from embassies. There you can submit your application and, in some cases, complete biometric data collection.

• Where are they located? Check if this option is available in your country by checking with the corresponding Japanese embassy. These centers are usually more accessible if you live far from the capital.
• Advantages: The process is usually faster and, in some cases, they offer additional assistance to review your documents before sending them.

3. Online platforms: resources and preparation

Although the final application must be submitted in person, you can take advantage of online resources offered by embassies:

• Download forms: Get the official application form and make sure you complete it correctly before your appointment.
• Updated guides: See detailed lists of requirements for each type of visa and other details, such as consular fees or processing times.
• Useful contacts: Most embassies and consular centers have e-mails and hotlines to answer questions.

Take advantage of these tools to review everything before submitting your application. Advance preparation can avoid delays or last-minute corrections.

How much does a visa to study in Japan cost?

You already know the requirements, the documents and even the process, but here comes the big question. How much will it cost? Applying for a student visa in Japan is not free. Although, fortunately, it is not among the most expensive in the world (in Australia a student visa costs around 1,000 dollars!). However, it is not an isolated expense, the official fees are in addition to other fees that you will have to face. It is advisable to take them all into account from the beginning.

Japan student visa main costs

1. Consular fee. The cost varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your country of origin. These are the most common general fees:
2.  Single-entry visa: About 3,000 yen (about $20)
3.  Double or multiple-entry visa: Around 6,000 yen (about $40)
4. Transit visa: About 700 yen (about $5)

Remember! It is important to check with the Japanese embassy in your country to confirm the updated fees because they may vary.

Expenses related to applying for a Japanese student visa

• Travel and accommodation: If you must travel to another city to submit your application, include transportation costs and, if necessary, one night’s hotel accommodation.
• Forwarding of documentation: In some cases, it may be necessary to send additional papers by registered mail and this is a small extra charge.

Additional costs

In addition to the consular fee, there are other expenses to consider:

• Translation of documents: If your papers are not in English or Japanese, you will need a certified translation. The cost can be between $30 and $100 per document, depending on the country and the complexity of the process.
• International medical insurance: Some educational institutions will require you to purchase medical insurance to cover any emergency. The price of international insurance varies depending on the coverage, but it is usually around $300 – $700 per year.
• Passport size photos: Although it is a minor cost, do not forget to include it. The usual price is between $5 and $15, depending on the country.

How long does it take to get a visa to study in Japan?

The process to get your student visa for Japan does not have fixed timelines, but there are clear steps that you should keep in mind. Factors such as the time of year, the load of applications at the embassy and how organized you have your documents can make a difference. A piece of advice? Start with plenty of time to avoid unforeseen events.

To help you plan accurately, here is a breakdown of the approximate timelines for each stage of the process:

1. Issuance of Certificate of Eligibility (COE):

If you have been accepted to a university, language school or training center in Japan, the institution will apply for your COE with the Japanese Immigration Bureau. This document is essential to prove that you meet the requirements.

• Estimated time: 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the volume of applications and the institution.

2. Submitting the application to the embassy or consulate:

Once you receive the COE, you will need to gather the required documents and go to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country to submit the formal application.

• Estimated time: 3 to 7 working days for the initial review of the documentation.

3. Visa evaluation and approval:

If everything is in order, the embassy or consulate will proceed with the issuance of your visa. In some cases, you may be called for a brief interview to verify the details of your application. If you are already out of your country, remember to sign up for your Holafly eSIM so you don’t miss any notifications.

• Estimated time: 5 to 10 business days.

In other words, from the issuance of the COE to the final delivery of the visa, the whole process usually takes between 6 and 10 weeks. Therefore, we recommend that you start the process at least 3 months before the start date of your studies to avoid delays. Please note that if you apply for your visa during high season, such as the months prior to the start of the academic year (April and September), waiting times can be quite long.

Lawyers for advice on how to apply for a student visa in Japan

Do you find it complicated to apply for a visa to study in Japan? It’s normal, the paperwork can be a challenge if you are not familiar with the requirements and processes. Enlisting the help of immigration experts will not only save you time, it will also increase your chances of being granted a visa. That is why we have gathered some outstanding options of specialized lawyers and consultants who can guide you step by step in obtaining your Japanese visa.

Hiroo Park Law Firm, a law firm to process your student visa for Japan

Hiroo Park Law Firm is a law firm located in Minato-ku, Tokyo. It specializes in immigration legal services. It stands out for its attention in Spanish and its personalized approach for international students.

• Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
• Services:
  • Processing of visas, including student visas.
  • Personalized advice on immigration processes.
  • Legal representation in cases of refusals or appeals.
• Languages: Japanese, English and Spanish.
• Hours: Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• Fees:
  • Initial consultation: free of charge.
  • Complete packages: start at 50,000 yen (approximately $350).

University of Tokyo – Japan Student Visa Support Office

The Visa Consulting Office of the University of Tokyo offers support to international students with visa and permit procedures necessary for their stay in Japan.

• Location: University of Tokyo main campus, Tokyo, Japan.
• Services:
  • Advice on student visa (Ryugaku) application.
  • Support in the renewal of visas.
  • Information on requirements for accompanying relatives.
  • Resolution of legal doubts related to work permits for students.
• Languages: Japanese and English.
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Contact us:
  • Web: www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/adm/inbound/en
  • Mail: E-mail: inbound-support@u-tokyo.ac.jp

Frequently asked questions about the student visa in Japan

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