How do I apply for a Japan Student Visa?

To apply for a Japan student visa, begin by selecting a language school and a term start date. Then, submit the necessary documents through our application link. We will assist you throughout the application process.

What documents are required for my Japan student visa application?

You will need to submit various documents, including proof of financial support, a completed application form, and an official bank statement.

Can I apply for a student visa if I have studied in Japan before?

Students who have previously studied in Japan can obtain a student visa for a maximum of 2 years, minus the duration of their prior course. Visa extensions require good attendance and proof of financial support, but are not guaranteed.

What is the processing time for my Japanese student visa application?

The processing time for the student visa is approximately 6 months for COE approval and 1 week for the visa issuance. It is advisable to apply early to avoid potential delays.

Is it possible to work in Japan while studying with a student visa?

Students in Japan with student visas can work part-time with approval from the school and immigration authorities. To work full-time after graduation, students require a job offer and a work visa, which typically necessitates a Bachelor’s degree or a specialized vocational diploma.

Home • Studying Abroad in Japan • How to Apply for a Japan Student Visa?

Japan Student Visa: How to Apply, Requirements and Expert Tips for Studying in Japan

Pursuing your dream of studying in Japan is an exciting endeavor. However, understanding the Japan student visa requirements can be complex. This guide provides essential information on how to obtain a Japan student visa and navigate the application process smoothly.

This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, key deadlines, and information on support options to assist you in your Japanese student visa application and your journey to study abroad in Japan.

To study abroad in Japan, a Japanese student visa is necessary for enrollment in Japanese language schools, vocational schools, and universities.

Also, it is essential to understand the visa application timeline and eligibility requirements to ensure a smooth process.

Key points covered in this article include:

A student visa is required for foreign students planning to study and work part-time in Japan.
Acceptance into a recognized school and proof of sufficient funds are necessary to get a Japanese student visa.
Ensuring all documents are submitted correctly and on time is essential to avoid delays.
Go! Go! Nihon streamlines the visa process by assisting with school selection, document verification, and accommodation. Our guidance ensures compliance with Japanese immigration regulations.
Applying for a Japan student visa is a process that requires a significant amount of time; starting early can help reduce stress and improve your chances of approval. Go! Go! Nihon offers support throughout this process.
A work permit is required to work in Japan after graduation.

Japan student visa Overview

What is a Japanese Student Visa?

To understand the application process, it is crucial to first define what a Japanese Student Visa entails.

The Japanese Student Visa, officially called “General Visa – Student” (with ‘Student’ being a subcategory), is a legal document issued by the Japanese government that grants the status of residence, “Study Abroad”.

This visa permits you to:

Study at schools in Japan.
Reside in Japan during your studies.
Engage in limited part-time work under specific conditions to support your living expenses.

What are the different types of Japanese Student Visas for Foreign Students?

The duration and purpose of your study abroad program determine the types of Japanese Student Visas available. These include:

Student visas for language schools in Japan, typically offered for up to two years.
Student visas for vocational schools and universities, with a duration that aligns with the length of your studies. Depending on the program, you may be eligible to bring dependents, provided you meet additional financial requirements.

Who needs to obtain a Japanese student visa?

If you are not a Japanese citizen or resident and plan to study in Japan for more than 90 days, a Japanese Student Visa is required. This applies to individuals enrolling in:

For short-term studies under 90 days, individuals from visa-exempt countries do not need a student visa.

Japan student visa requirements

What are the Necessary Requirements for your Japan Student Visa Application?

Now that we have established who requires a student visa, let us examine the specific requirements for the application.

To apply for a student visa in Japan, you must provide the following documents. Download our complimentary Japan student visa document checklist for a comprehensive list.

Standard documents:

Copy of your valid passport and all prior Japan entry stamps in it.
Proof JLPT N5 proficiency or 150-hour prior Japanese study (depending on school requirements).
A high-quality photo of yourself in front of a white background, passport style, not older than 3 months.
A copy of your last school degree. If you are still in school, include your graduation letter or proof of enrollment.
Recent bank statement from yourself or your financial sponsor. It should show at least 1,200,000 JPY. Some schools may ask for a higher amount.
Copy of business registration certificate if your sponsor is self-employed.
The most recent tax declaration document from you or your financial sponsor as proof of annual income.

Extra documents (depending on school and applicant):

Birth certificate as proof of relationship to your sponsor
If you had a Japanese visa in the past:
- Copy of the front and back of the residence card
- Copy of the visa in passport
- School graduation/attendance certificate, if held a student visa previously
School-specific application forms and/or health certificates
Copy of JLPT certificate if taken in the past

Why is financial proof required for a Japanese student visa application?

The financial proof is required by Japanese Immigration to ensure that you or your sponsor can cover the living and study costs associated with your chosen study abroad program in Japan.

Who can sponsor your student visa application?

You can sponsor your own application. Alternatively, a direct relative, such as a parent, grandparent, or sibling, can serve as your sponsor.

Ideally, the sponsor should have been employed full-time for at least the past two years.

If a single sponsor cannot meet the financial and sponsorship requirements, the school may accept two sponsors who collectively fulfill the requirements.

What is the required bank balance for a Japanese student visa application?

The key financial requirements include:

Bank Statement: You must provide a bank statement that demonstrates a minimum amount of funds, which varies based on the duration of your studies. For example, a minimum of 1,200,000 yen is typically required for six months of study. The specific amount required depends on your chosen school and the length of your study period.
Proof of Annual Income: Sponsors, including those who are retired, must demonstrate an annual income of at least 2,000,000 yen. Acceptable documentation includes a tax return, employment contract/certificate, or pension statement.

Why is proof of prior Japanese language study necessary?

Japanese language schools and immigration services often require documentation of prior Japanese language study to ensure that applicants can adapt to the academic environment and have the necessary language skills to succeed in their programs.

What are the valid proofs of Japanese language study?

Transcript from university, language school or private tutor
JLPT exam certificate or equivalent
Certificate from an online course
Some schools may allow self-study declaration

If you are a beginner with no prior Japanese language study, the Akamonkai 12-Week Beginner Course in Japanese provides an excellent starting point for building your Japanese language skills and confidence.

Steps to apply for a student visa

How to Apply for a Japanese Student Visa with Go! Go! Nihon

Having understood the necessary documentation, we can now move on to the steps involved in the Japan student visa application process.

Contact Us: You may contact Go! Go! Nihon through our website’s contact form.
School Selection: Collaborate with our team to select the most suitable school in Japan, based on your preferences and needs
Document Preparation: Gather the required documents for your visa application. Our team will provide guidance on the necessary documents and requirements.
Enhance your Japanese Studies: Japanese immigration authorities require applicants for long-term Japanese language programs to provide evidence of basic Japanese language studies.
Documents Review: Submit your documents for review. We will verify their accuracy and suitability for school acceptance.
Application Submission: We will submit your application to the school on your behalf and assist you in obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
Visa Application: Upon issuance of the COE, you can exchange it for your Japanese Student Visa at your nearest Japanese Consulate or embassy.
Pre-Arrival: We can assist you in finding accommodation in Japan and provide advice on pre-departure preparations.
Arrival and Post-Arrival Support: Upon your arrival, we will continue to provide assistance to help you settle in and connect you with a student community.

DID YOU KNOW?

Adhering to a strict timeline enhances your chances of obtaining a student visa for Japan.

Watch: How to apply to study in Japan with Go! Go! Nihon

For a visual guide on the application process, you can also watch this video:

Advantages of working with Go! Go! Nihon

Save Time, Effort, and Resources with Your Japan Student Visa Application Through Go! Go! Nihon

While direct applications to some schools in Japan are possible, they can present challenges. Go! Go! Nihon simplifies this process through collaborations with our partner schools and by providing language support.

Direct applications can be challenging due to:

Language Barriers: If your Japanese language proficiency is not sufficient, the visa application process and understanding the required documentation can be difficult.
Complex Paperwork: Schools may have extensive and specific requirements that can be challenging to navigate independently.
Lack of Guidance: Applying without assistance may result in overlooking important steps or missing deadlines, potentially causing delays in your application.

Go! Go! Nihon helps you avoid the potential loss of time, effort, and resources often associated with direct applications.

Here’s how we assist you:

Multi-language Support: We provide services in seven languages to ensure effective communication:
- English
- Spanish
- Italian
- French
- Portuguese
- Swedish
- German
Document Assistance: We verify the accuracy of your documents and ensure they meet the specific requirements of the school.
School Liaison: We act as a liaison to facilitate smooth and clear communication between you and the school.
Comprehensive Support: We provide assistance in selecting the most suitable school for your needs. We also offer support with housing arrangements and guidance upon your arrival.

Student Testimonials

Testimonials: International Students on Our Efficient and Effective Study Abroad Assistance in Japan

Excellent

4.9

Rafael F.

Simplesmente a melhor empresa de suporte para quem deseja vir ao Japão para estudar. Eles ajudam com tudo e qualquer dúvida ou ajuda eles estão sempre à disposição. Agradeço muito à Nina que me ajudou durante todo esse processo. Graças à Go Go Nihon, cheguei aqui sem qualquer dificuldade e ocorreu tudo muito bem. Super indico.

Response from the owner:Olá Rafael! Muito obrigada por compartilhar sua experiência! Ficamos muito felizes em saber que conseguimos te apoiar em todas as etapas e que sua chegada ao Japão foi tranquila. Desejamos muito sucesso nessa nova fase e conte sempre conosco!

Rafael M.

O pessoal da Go! Go! Nihon é sempre muito atencioso, desde o começo do processo. Antes mesmo de confirmar que gostaria de utilizar os serviços, a Nina (que foi a minha orientadora desde o começo até o fim) fazia questão de responder a todas as minhas dúvidas e me orientar sobre o que eu deveria fazer.

O serviço deles é muito bom e, ainda por cima, de graça. Com certeza vou indicar para várias pessoas!

Response from the owner:Olá Rafael! Muito obrigado pela sua avaliação e pelas palavras gentis! Ficamos muito felizes em saber que você se sentiu bem orientado desde o início do processo. Nosso objetivo é justamente oferecer esse suporte completo, e saber que você indicaria nosso serviço significa muito para nós!

NaZa M.

A Nina me ajudou do começo ao fim no meu sonho de vir estudar no Japão! Sempre com artigos e guias práticos e bem explicativos sobre os procedimentos e documentos que devemos ter antes de chegar e mesmo depois de chegar ao Japão. Super recomendoooo~

Response from the owner:Olá NaZa! Muito obrigada pela sua avaliação! Ficamos muito felizes em fazer parte da realização do seu sonho de estudar no Japão. Desejamos uma experiência incrível e cheia de aprendizados!

Edu C.

Experiência foi incrível, profissionais foram simpáticos e me ajudaram muito, portal fácil de usar e todas as informações foram passadas corretamente, basta ler os papers que eles disponibilizam e tudo fica fácil.

Response from the owner:Olá Edu! Muito obrigado pelo seu feedback! Ficamos felizes em saber que o processo foi claro e que nossa plataforma e guias te ajudaram ao longo do caminho. Desejamos tudo de melhor na sua experiência no Japão!

Lucas Rocha M.

Received invaluable amounts of help from them at no cost. My advisor, Nina, was always available to help and answered any questions I had as soon as possible. Recommend them to anyone who wants to study in Japan.

Response from the owner:Hello Lucas, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Marcelo T.

A Go Go Nihon superou nossas expectativas.
Foram muito atenciosos e prestativos entendendo nossas necessidades, tirando nossas dúvidas e nos orientando em todo o processo.
Agradecimento especial à Nina que nos atendeu em todo o processo com muita dedicação!!!!
Parabéns e obrigado!

Response from the owner:Olá Marcelo! Muito obrigada pela sua avaliação! Ficamos muito felizes em saber que conseguimos atender às suas expectativas e oferecer o suporte necessário durante todo o processo. Agradecemos pela confiança e desejamos uma ótima estadia no Japão!

Leonardo Z.

A Nina foi muito atenciosa e respondeu a todas as minhas dúvidas durante o processo. A escola do Japão também é bem equipada e não precisei me preocupar com nada.

Response from the owner:Olá Leonardo! Muito obrigada pela sua avaliação! Ficamos felizes em saber que você se sentiu bem atendido durante todo o processo e que teve uma experiência tranquila. Desejamos ótimos estudos no Japão!

Sonia C.

The Go! Go! Nihon staff helped me throughout the whole process of moving to Japan, from choosing a school to explaining the thousand small details of life in a new country. Everything went smoothly, only thanks to them! I can't recommend them enough!!

Response from the owner:Hello Sonia, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Steven P.

I get to write this review from Japan. My dream has finally come true, and it's thanks to Go!Go! Nihon. Not only did they have many resources for researching how to make it here, but their advisors are on another level. Thank you May for answering all my questions keeping me organized and prepared for my new life here. I can't believe this entire service was free and I am incredible grateful to have stumbled upon it. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Hello Steven, thank you for your review! We're so happy we could help you throughout the whole process and we hope you enjoy your studies in Japan!

Alex C.

I applied to study twice in Japan at a Japanese language school, first for short-term and then for long-term, and GoGo Nihon had been amazing helping out with the process and providing information and support when needed! Shout-out to Mr. Reinaldi, who supported both my applications and always responded fast and with insightful answers.

Many thanks to the entire GoGo Nihon team!

Response from the owner:Hello Alex, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Giulio G.

Sono appena arrivato in Giappone e a breve inizierò il corso. Sono più che soddisfatto, il servizio è totalmente gratuito e ti toglie tutta una serie di problematiche dal burocratico ai problemi più comuni.
Si può fare senza? Si certo, ma non riesco a trovare un motivo valido.

P.s. vorrei ringraziare particolarmente sia Mara che è stata la mia referente che Veronica che mi aiutava quando Mara non era di turno, per l'immenso aiuto e pazienza che hanno avuto nei miei confronti.

Consigliatissimo!!!

Roberta L.

Às vezes bate uma ansiedade, por se tratar de um objetivo muito importante e que requer planejamento, mas pode confiar na Go Go Nihon sem medo! É uma empresa excelente: idônea, organizada, solícita e que te ajuda em todo o processo, de ponta a ponta. A plataforma que eles usam é ótima.

Eles me acompanharam durante um ano até eu chegar ao Japão, sempre pacientes e explicando detalhadamente o passo a passo. Me acolheram quando eu cheguei e proporcionaram um evento para conhecermos outros alunos e tirarmos dúvidas. Um agradecimento especial para a Nina, responsável por me acompanhar nessa jornada, uma profissional maravilhosa.

A empresa realmente se conecta com o propósito de facilitar o sonho do estudante de estar no Japão. Ah e tudo isso sem você ter que pagar pelo serviço deles, nos dias de hoje realmente inacreditável.

Response from the owner:Olá Roberta! Muito obrigada por compartilhar sua experiência conosco! Sabemos que esse processo pode gerar ansiedade, por isso ficamos muito felizes em saber que conseguimos te acompanhar com atenção e clareza em cada etapa até a sua chegada ao Japão. É muito gratificante saber que você se sentiu acolhida e bem orientada ao longo de toda a jornada. Desejamos que essa nova fase seja incrível, cheia de aprendizados e boas experiências! Conte sempre conosco no que precisar!

Gaspar Satorres G.

Acabo de llegar a Japón con ayuda de Go!Go! y la verdad es que me ha parecido un servicio buenísimo.

Te ayudan con todos los trámites previos que necesitas realizar para solicitar plaza en una escuela y con inmigración y te aconsejan en todo lo que pueden.

La comunicación a través de su web es muy fluida y tienes un coordinador que te va guiando en todos los pasos.

También ofrecen cursos de Japonés para niveles de iniciación con certificación válida a la hora de pedir plaza en una escuela.

Response from the owner:Hola Gaspar, ¡gracias por tu reseña! Nos alegra muchísimo saber que hemos sido de gran ayuda para ti. ¡Disfruta tu aventura en Japón!

Erik Wiliam Cruz D.

En verdad un gran apoyo por parte de las personas que están a cargo como coordinadores; desde los primero pasos que es decidir cuando, donde y por cuanto tiempo, hasta cosas mas complejas que pueden llevar a quebrarse la cabeza a mas de uno si no tiene la información correcta. Mi experiencia ha sido gratificante y apenas llegue para empezar mis estudios. Hay personas que te recomendaran o sugerirán que lo puedes hacer por tu cuenta pero a la hora de problemas o información que necesitas al momento créeme que es de gran beneficio saber que puedes contar con el apoyo de una red que esta bien documentada y con experiencia para poder resolver tus dudas y problemas

Response from the owner:¡Gracias por tu reseña Erik! Nos alegra poder ayudarte durante todo el proceso. ¡Disfruta mucho de tus clases y experiencia en Japón!

Miguel R.

No duden en contactar y utilizar los servicios de Go!Go! Nihon, la comunicación y el apoyo es excelente, te llevarán paso a paso por el proceso para poder estudiar y vivir en Japón. Lo recomiendo 100%

Response from the owner:¡Muchas gracias por confiar en nosotros Miguel! Ha sido un placer acompañarte en el proceso.

Daiki H.

Saskia was very helpful in assisting me through my enrollment process

Response from the owner:Hello Daiki, thank you for your review. We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Luigi S.

Non posso che consigliare caldamente a tutti coloro che vogliano partire per il Giappone a studiare di usare Gogonihon, un servizio efficientissimo gestito al meglio che facilita di gran lunga l’iscrizione alla scuola e la partenza, dando anche molti consigli utili. Ringrazio tutto lo staff e in particolare Mara con la quale mi sono interfacciato e gestito la mia come molte altre iscrizioni. Consigliato ancora!

Response from the owner:Ciao Luigi,
Grazie per la recensione! 😄
Siamo contenti che tu ti sia trovato bene con il nostro supporto e con la consulente che ha seguito la tua iscrizione.
In bocca al lupo per la tua esperienza in Giappone!

Elena T.

Come servizio mi è stato consigliato da un'amica che aveva già ricevuto il loro aiuto e devo dire che hanno superato ogni aspettativa! Grazie a loro mi sono iscritta a una scuola di lingue per un anno, ho trovato casa, ho avuto aiuto dettagliato per tutta la trafila burocratica per ottenere il visto da studentessa... insomma, tutta la parte difficile che probabilmente non sarei riuscita a fare da sola, è stata sempre seguita da loro minuziosamente. Ringrazio infinitamente Veronica per la sua pazienza e per avermi accompagnata lungo questo percorso ascoltando ogni mia perplessità e dandomi risposte a ogni domanda. Davvero un servizio ottimo che consiglierei a chiunque abbia il desiderio di intraprendere quest'avvenuta nel Sol Levante!

Response from the owner:Ciao Elena,
Grazie per le belle parole 😄
Siamo contenti che ti sia trovata bene con il nostro supporto e con la consulente che ha seguito la tua iscrizione.
Buono studio e avventura in Giappone!

Emanuele R.

Uno staff incredibile, ti segue passo dopo passo in tutto ciò che serve per tutti coloro che sognano di vivere un esperienza in Giappone, che sia di lunga o media durata. Provvedono a tutti i tipi di contatti di cui necessiti in loco, consigli di ogni tipo e fogli dove spiegano come compilare determinati moduli che a primo impatto potrebbero sembrare molto confusionari. La mia referente del caso è stata Mara, sempre puntuale e gentile nelle risposte e mai impreparata su nessuna domanda gli abbia mai fatto. Super consigliati 🙂

Response from the owner:Ciao Emanuele,
Grazie mille per la recensione! 🙂
Siamo contenti che tu ti sia trovato bene con il nostro supporto e con la consulente che ha seguito la tua iscrizione.
Buono studio!

Alexa L.

Highly recommend this service! I thought I might be too late in applying but my agent, Silvia, helped me find a school that fit my needs (Toyo Language School). She answered all of my questions during the process and I was able to get my COE and visa promptly.

Response from the owner:Hello Alexa, thank you for your review. We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

ArcticFox

Molto competenti e gentili, mi hanno seguito per ogni bisogno e richiesta! Grazie ancora, tanti saluti

Response from the owner:Ciao!
Grazie per la recensione 🙂
In bocca al lupo per l'inizio dei corsi!

Ciussse

Grazie mille a tutto lo staff di Go Go Nihon, in particolare a Veronica, Mara, Gianluca e Clarissa che mi hanno aiutato (con tanta pazienza) nei vari passaggi! Grazie mille!!! <3

Response from the owner:Ciao
Grazie mille per le bellissime parole!
Siamo contenti tu ti sia trovato bene con il nostro supporto e i consulenti che hanno seguito la tua iscrizione 🙂
Ti auguriamo un in bocca al lupo per l'inizio dei corsi di lingua!

Hugo Z.

J'ai fait appel à GoGoNihon pour faciliter mes démarches et je tiens à dire un grand merci à Pauline et Yuko pour leur excellent travail et suivi de mon dossier! Je recommande leurs services les yeux fermés 🙂

Response from the owner:Bonjour Hugo, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets d'études au Japon !

Filippo P.

Molto disponibili e chiari nelle spiegazioni

Response from the owner:Ciao Filippo,
Grazie per la recensione 🙂
In bocca al lupo per l'inizio dei corsi!

Juan M.

Recomiendo Gogonihon 💯
Gracias

Response from the owner:Gracias por tu recomendación y por hacernos saber que tu experiencia de aplicación ha sido positiva😄

Matteo Di M.

Sempre disponibili ad aiutarti e a chiarire ogni dubbio/quesito in fase di preparazione e anche postumo completamento documenti.

Response from the owner:Ciao Matteo,
Grazie mille per la recensione! 🙂
Siamo contenti che tu ti sia trovato bene con il nostro servizio!
In bocca al lupo per il corso di lingua e buono studio!

Lisa G.

Les échanges sont rapides et les réponses claires, merci à Pauline et Moko d'avoir fait le lien avec l'école !
Très simple et efficace 🙂

Response from the owner:Bonjour Lisa, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets d'études au Japon !

Conor W.

Fantastic experience with Saskia who helped with all of my inquiries! Very helpful and friendly.

Response from the owner:Hello Conor, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Louis

Gogonihon has helped me achieve my dream! Amazing customer service, would absolutely recommend them!

Response from the owner:Hello, thank you for your review. We're happy to have helped you achieve your dream and hope you enjoy your time in Japan!

Elliot S.

Saskia was very helpful in directing me towards the right school for my needs. She was able to answer all questions I had and was quick to respond. Thanks Saskia!

Response from the owner:Hello Elliot, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Martina M.

Supporto perfetto e super puntuale ! Mi sono rivolta a Go! Go! Nihon per l'organizzazione del mio viaggio studio in Giappone e grazie a loro sono riuscita a sbrigare tutte le pratiche burocratiche necessarie (e non poco impegnative) in maniera precisa e puntulale ! Grazie in particolare a Gianluca per la professionalità e disponibilità immediata rispetto ad ogni mia necessità! A breve partirò per Tokyo per i miei 6 mesi di studio ! Farò sicuramente riferimento a voi per la successiva esperienza!

Response from the owner:Ciao Martina,
Grazie per le belle parole! 🙂
Siamo contenti che tu ti sia trovata bene con il nostro supporto!
Ti auguriamo un in bocca al lupo per l'inizio dei corsi e buon viaggio!

Ester F.

L'esperienza con GoGoNihon è stata ottima. Dalla fase iniziale con consulto, a quella di selezione della scuola ed effettivo trasferimento, sono stata seguita con attenzione dalla mia referente Mara, che oltre ad essere stata paziente e preparata, ha dimostrato anche estrema gentilezza e disponibilità in merito a qualsiasi mio dubbio. Così come il personale, ho trovato anche il sito chiaro e strutturato, sia nel presentare i vari percorsi di studio sia per quanto riguarda gli alloggi. Sono più che soddisfatta e non vedo l'ora di iniziare. Grazie di tutto.

Response from the owner:Ciao Ester,
Grazie mille per la recensione! 🙂
Siamo contenti che tu ti sia trovata bene con il nostro supporto e con la consulente che ha seguito la tua iscrizione.
Buon viaggio e speriamo di vederti al Welcome Party qui in Giappone!

Vincent S.

Super Support! Mir wurden sämtliche Fragen immer umgehend beantwortet. Danke Yannik & Philipp 🙏🏻

Response from the owner:Hi Vincent! Wir freuen uns sehr, dass du eine gute Erfahrung mit uns hattest. Yannik, Philipp und das ganze Team wünschen dir alles Gute für deine Zeit in Japan!

Nan C.

I had a very good experience with Go! Go! Nihon while applying to study Japanese in Tokyo.
The process involves a lot of documents and was complex, but Pauline helped me throughout the whole application and was always patient and responsive when I had questions.

I would also like to thank Moko, who works behind the scenes on the applications. Their support made the process much easier and less stressful.

I really appreciate all the time and effort they put into helping me prepare my application. I’m looking forward to starting my studies in Japan this July!

Response from the owner:Hello, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process and we're excited for you to start your studies this summer!

Alice C.

Il team di Go! Go! Nihon Italia è stato fondamentale per rendere concreto il mio progetto di un viaggio a lungo termine in Giappone (6 mesi). Sono stati incredibilmente gentili, alla mano e sempre presenti: non mi hanno mai lasciata sola con i miei dubbi. Grazie al loro supporto e all'efficienza della piattaforma, oggi mi sento sicura e pronta per la partenza. Non vedo l’ora di iniziare questa esperienza che è diventata realtà proprio grazie a loro e conoscerli dal vivo una volta arrivata!

Response from the owner:Ciao Alice,
Grazie mille per la recensione!
Siamo contenti tu ti sia trovata bene con il nostro supporto! Ti auguriamo un in bocca al lupo per l'inizio dei corsi! 🙂

Todd N.

The process of moving to Japan as a student can be daunting on your own, but Layna at Go! Go! Nihon made it seamless. She was instrumental in finding a school that perfectly matched what I was looking for and handled the entire visa application and enrollment process for me. She really knows her stuff and was very prompt and patient in answering all of my questions and concerns—great to work with! I highly recommend Layna and Go! Go! Nihon if you're looking to study in Japan!

Response from the owner:Hello Todd, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Kristoffer

Made it really easy to apply for Language school and answered all my questions quickly. Really recommend using Go! Go! as it's such a stress relief

Response from the owner:Hello Kristoffer, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Christelle P.

Je recommande fortement, les personnes sont formidables, toujours à l'écoute sans eux mon fils ne serait jamais arrivé a monter son dossier. Ils ont été dune aide précieuse, toujours a l'écoute, des retours très rapide. Alors si vous avez besoin surtout n'hésitez pas

Response from the owner:Bonjour Christelle, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous aidons votre fils dans ses projets d'études au Japon !

Nicholas S.

There are a lot of steps necessary to the process of moving to any starting study in Japan, and the help and guidance of the student advisors at Go Go Nihon makes that process so much easier. They will help connect you with schools and accommodations, help with necessary documents, hold webinars on the processes, and be available for small matters. If you're looking to move to and study in Japan, there could not be a more helpful service than this.

Response from the owner:Hello Nicholas, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Matthew

Made the process very easy to follow

Response from the owner:Hi Matthew, thank you for your review!

Vincenzo S.

Sempre disponibili e gentilissimi, ti aiutano su tutto il da fare per l'iscrizione in una scuola di lingua, rendendo il tutto molto più semplice, UNICI!!

Response from the owner:Ciao Vincenzo,
Grazie per la recensione! 🙂
Siamo contenti che tu ti sia trovato bene con il nostro supporto.
Ti auguriamo un buon inizio studi e buon viaggio!

henry H.

Silvia from Go! Go! Nihon has been very patient and engaging with me throughout the process. She kept me confident on all steps of the process. I am most impressed with how straight forward she is, not many people can do that. I am glad that I have chosen Go! Go! Nihon for my new studies and adventures.

Response from the owner:Hello Henry, thank you for your review! Silvia and the team are happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Sebastiano T.

I've had an amazing experience working with Silvia in finding a Japanese Language School through GoGo Nihon. She has been very helpful throughout the whole process, and patient.

Response from the owner:Hello Sebastiano, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Yanis S.

Service rapide et à l'écoute !

Je tiens à remercier Nora et Yuko qui m'ont permis de pouvoir faire mon inscription rapidement en me guidant de A à Z sans soucis.

Response from the owner:Bonjour Yanis, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets d'études au Japon !

Cecily P.

Go! Go! Nihon is a fantastic (free!) resource for prospective students, and my experience working with Silvia couldn't have been better. She's been friendly, prompt, patient, and extremely helpful every step of the way! What could have been a complicated and intimidating process felt very accessible and straightforward, and her guidance gave me peace of mind from start to finish.

Response from the owner:Hello Cecily, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process and making it easier for you!

Or view video testimonials of international students who we have assisted in the past.

Ready to live and study in Japan?

Our student advisors are here to help you. Contact us today for free support!

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Tips from our student coordinators

Valuable Advice from Our Student Advisors for a Seamless Japanese Student Visa Application

In addition to hearing from past students, consider these valuable tips from our student coordinators for a successful application.

1. Submit your application early

The application period for each long-term intake begins one year prior to the start of the term, with final deadlines approximately six months before the start date. As school places fill up quickly, we strongly recommend submitting your application as early as possible to secure your place.

2. Verify all required documents

Carefully review the document checklist for all materials necessary to apply to a language school in Japan and for your student visa.

Failure to complete and submit all required documents for your Japan student visa application may result in delays, application denial, or the need to defer your studies to a later intake.

3. Thoroughly review application information

Carefully examine the information and instructions provided by us. These contain all the essential details for completing a successful student visa application in Japan.

4. Enhance your Japanese studies

Japanese immigration authorities require applicants for long-term Japanese language programs to provide evidence of basic Japanese language studies. Ensure you have the necessary documentation.

5. Provide accurate information

Ensure all information in your application is accurate and truthful, as the student visa is a legal document. Any inconsistencies or false information can compromise your visa application.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ensuring all documents are accurate and submitted on time is crucial to avoid complications with Japanese Immigration.

Reasons for Japan student visa rejection

What Common Reasons Lead to the Denial of Your Japan Student Visa Application?

When applying for a Japan Student Visa, it is essential to meet all requirements and provide accurate information to avoid rejection.

Below are the most common reasons for the denial of a student’s visa application.

1. Multiple applications and inconsistent information

It is only possible to apply to one school at a time.
Submitting applications to multiple schools will result in the automatic rejection of all visa applications.

2. Inconsistent information

Immigration authorities carefully review past visa and Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) applications.
All previous applications, including cancelled ones, must be accurately declared.
Any discrepancies between the information provided in past and current applications may lead to rejection.

3. Insufficient Japanese language study hours

Many language schools and Japanese Immigration now require proof of Japanese language study experience.
Acceptable proof includes course completion certificates, university transcripts, letters from teachers, or JLPT certificates.
Schools may also have specific requirements, such as in-person course certifications.

If you do not have evidence of prior Japanese studies, consider enrolling in a recognized online Japanese course, such as the Akamonkai Japanese 12-Week Beginner Course.

Always confirm the specific requirements of your chosen school before applying.

DID YOU KNOW?

Study experience is valuable for your application and adapting to life in Japan; however, language requirements vary by school. Some schools may only accept certificates from in-person courses, excluding online courses.

Learn more about the various circumstances that could lead to the denial of your Japanese visa application.

Student visa transition to work visa

Can You Transition Your Student Visa to a Work Visa in Japan?

It is indeed possible to transition from a student visa to a work visa in Japan; however, this transition is not automatic.

To qualify for a work visa in Japan, you must first obtain a job offer from a company in Japan. The job must also fulfill specific requirements established by the Japanese Immigration Bureau.

Typically, these requirements include holding a Bachelor’s Degree or specialized diploma from a Japanese vocational school.

Is it easy to find a job in Japan after graduation?

Finding a full-time job in Japan after graduation can be challenging without the basic necessary qualifications, such as a Bachelor’s Degree or specialized vocational diploma and JLPT N2.

Some language schools offer job support, including interview preparation and resume writing, however, finding employment will depend on your qualifications, experience and efforts in job-hunting.

We wrote an article about the different job opportunities for international students on a student visa.

DID YOU KNOW?

Finding employment in Japan after your graduation will depend on your qualifications and efforts.

Before applying for student visa

Other Important Things to Understand About Japanese Student Visa

Before you finalize your application, it is important to understand some other key aspects of the Japanese student visa.

How long does it take to process your student visa application in Japan?

The process of obtaining a Japanese student visa takes several months. After selecting a school and submitting your application, the school reviews it and submits it to Japanese immigration for approval of the Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

The review process after your application is submitted to the school can take around 6 months, depending on the school.

Once the COE is issued, you must apply for your student visa at a local Japanese embassy, which generally takes about 1 week.

Can your Japanese student visa be renewed and extended?

Yes, your Japanese student visa can be renewed if you wish to extend your Japanese language studies in Japan, but this depends on several factors.

Extensions are typically allowed up to the maximum course length set by your school term, up to two years:

Provided there are available course spots
Your attendance and grades meet the required standards
You can show updated financial proof of sufficient funds.

DID YOU KNOW?

Extensions are not guaranteed, so it is recommended to apply for the longest course duration in your initial application to avoid complications.

What are the potential issues you will encounter with non-renewal of your student visa?

Non-renewal of Japanese student visa can lead to:

Forced departure from Japan.
Loss of school enrollment.
Adverse effects on your future visa application, making it harder to secure reentry to Japan.

What is the maximum duration of stay in Japan with a student visa?

The maximum duration for studying Japanese on a student visa is 2 years. If you have previously studied at a language school on a student visa, the total length of your study will be reduced by the duration of your previous course.

Ready to live and study in Japan?

Our student advisors are here to help you. Contact us today for free support!

Get free support

Summary

Japan Student Visa: How to Apply and Requirements

Applying for a Japanese student visa can be a complex process; however, with our support, you do not have to navigate it alone.

We offer personalized guidance in 7 languages, assisting you in selecting the appropriate school, processing your visa documents, securing accommodation, and adjusting to life in Japan.

Our comprehensive service ensures your application process is seamless and stress-free.

Do not risk forgoing your dream of studying in Japan. Take advantage of our support today to ensure your application is error-free and your journey to Japan is successful!

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a Japan Student Visa?
To apply for a Japan student visa, begin by selecting a language school and a term start date. Then, submit the necessary documents through our application link. We will assist you throughout the application process.
What documents are required for my Japan student visa application?
You will need to submit various documents, including proof of financial support, a completed application form, and an official bank statement.
Can I apply for a student visa if I have studied in Japan before?
Students who have previously studied in Japan can obtain a student visa for a maximum of 2 years, minus the duration of their prior course. Visa extensions require good attendance and proof of financial support, but are not guaranteed.
What is the processing time for my Japanese student visa application?
The processing time for the student visa is approximately 6 months for COE approval and 1 week for the visa issuance. It is advisable to apply early to avoid potential delays.
Is it possible to work in Japan while studying with a student visa?
Students in Japan with student visas can work part-time with approval from the school and immigration authorities. To work full-time after graduation, students require a job offer and a work visa, which typically necessitates a Bachelor’s degree or a specialized vocational diploma.