HomeStudying Abroad in JapanHow 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.

Japan Student Visa: Apply Guide, Requirements, and Expert Tips for Foreign Students

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:

  1. A student visa is required for foreign students planning to study and work part-time in Japan.
  2. Acceptance into a recognized school and proof of sufficient funds are necessary to get a Japanese student visa.
  3. Ensuring all documents are submitted correctly and on time is essential to avoid delays.
  4. Go! Go! Nihon streamlines the visa process by assisting with school selection, document verification, and accommodation. Our guidance ensures compliance with Japanese immigration regulations.
  5. 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.
  6. 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:

  1. Study at schools in Japan.
  2. Reside in Japan during your studies.
  3. 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:

  1. Student visas for language schools in Japan, typically offered for up to two years.
  2. 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?

A photo of a passport which is a requirement to apply for a Japan Student Visa.
A photo of a passport which is a requirement to apply for a Japan Student Visa.

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:

  1. Copy of your valid passport and all prior Japan entry stamps in it.
  2. Proof JLPT N5 proficiency or 150-hour prior Japanese study (depending on school requirements).
  3. A high-quality photo of yourself in front of a white background, passport style, not older than 3 months.
  4. A copy of your last school degree. If you are still in school, include your graduation letter or proof of enrollment.
  5. 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.
  6. Copy of business registration certificate if your sponsor is self-employed.
  7. The most recent tax declaration document from you or your financial sponsor as proof of annual income.

Extra documents (depending on school and applicant):

  1. Birth certificate as proof of relationship to your sponsor
  2. 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
  3. School-specific application forms and/or health certificates
  4. 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?

A foreign student studying at a Japanese Language school in Japan
A foreign student studying at a Japanese Language school in Japan

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?

  1. Transcript from university, language school or private tutor
  2. JLPT exam certificate or equivalent
  3. Certificate from an online course
  4. 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.

A 12-week online beginner course for foreign students is the perfect starting point to learn Japanese.
A 12-week online beginner course for foreign students is the perfect starting point to learn Japanese.
Steps to apply for a student visa

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

Your chances of obtaining a student visa for Japan will be increased by creating and adhering to a strict timeline.
Adhering to a strict timeline significantly enhances your chances of successfully obtaining a student visa for Japan

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

  1. Contact Us: You may contact Go! Go! Nihon through our website’s contact form.
  2. School Selection: Collaborate with our team to select the most suitable school in Japan, based on your preferences and needs
  3. Document Preparation: Gather the required documents for your visa application. Our team will provide guidance on the necessary documents and requirements.
  4. Enhance your Japanese Studies: Japanese immigration authorities require applicants for long-term Japanese language programs to provide evidence of basic Japanese language studies.
  5. Documents Review: Submit your documents for review. We will verify their accuracy and suitability for school acceptance.
  6. Application Submission: We will submit your application to the school on your behalf and assist you in obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
  7. Visa Application: Upon issuance of the COE, you can exchange it for your Japanese Student Visa at your nearest Japanese Consulate or embassy.
  8. Pre-Arrival: We can assist you in finding accommodation in Japan and provide advice on pre-departure preparations.
  9. 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:

  1. Language Barriers: If your Japanese language proficiency is not sufficient, the visa application process and understanding the required documentation can be difficult.
  2. Complex Paperwork: Schools may have extensive and specific requirements that can be challenging to navigate independently.
  3. Lack of Guidance: Applying without assistance may result in overlooking important steps or missing deadlines, potentially causing delays in your application.
We diligently support foreign students in their pursuit of studying in Japan by providing comprehensive visa application services.
We diligently support foreign students in their pursuit of studying in Japan by providing comprehensive visa application services.

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:

  1. Multi-language Support: We provide services in seven languages to ensure effective communication:
    • English
    • Spanish
    • Italian
    • French
    • Portuguese
    • Swedish
    • German
  2. Document Assistance: We verify the accuracy of your documents and ensure they meet the specific requirements of the school.
  3. School Liaison: We act as a liaison to facilitate smooth and clear communication between you and the school.
  4. 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
camilla C.
I ragazzi sono fantastici, tempestivi nelle risposte ed estremamente gentili.
Consiglio fortemente di utilizzare Gogonihon per realizzare il proprio sogno di studiare e vivere in Giappone.
Uno staff davvero meraviglioso.
Riccardo P.
La mia esperienza con Go Go Nihon è stata super positiva, il loro team mi ha guidato passo dopo passo lungo tutte le procedure necessarie allo studio della lingua in Giappone, semplificando di molto la burocrazia. Non posso che raccomandare Go Go Nihon a chiunque sogni di studiare all'estero per la loro professionalità e facilità d'uso del loro servizio.
Jsobone
Matt has been incredibly helpful in detailing information & helping me find the best location for my studies. I appreciate all of the help he has provided and will not hesitate to reach out to him for further questions.
Quentin B
Je recommande vivement.
Je ne regrette pas mon experience sur GO GO NIhon,
Une aide pour monter son dossier et un temps accordé pour repondre au question vraiment super.
Un grand merci à Pauline et Moko.
Response from the owner:Bonjour Quentin, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
alright _.
Agréablement surprise! J’ai été accompagné et bien renseigné durant toute ma demande. Facile pour communiquer et rapide en considérant que nous vivons sur différentes plages horaires. Je recommande si vous souhaitez partir au Japon une première fois ou encore une fois !
Response from the owner:Bonjour, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Irene S.
Gogonihon permette a molti giovani come me, interessati a studiare la lingua giapponese in Giappone, di realizzare un sogno, affiancandoci costantemente nelle pratiche burocratiche e legali necessarie. La consulente che ha seguito la mia iscrizione è Mara e davvero non avrei potuto chiedere di meglio. Mi ha aiutato per qualsiasi problema o domanda avessi e le devo molto.
simone C.
Non posso che esprimere la mia più sincera gratitudine a Go! Go! Nihon: il loro supporto durante il mio trasferimento in Giappone è stato semplicemente straordinario. Mi hanno accompagnato in ogni fase del processo, spiegando tutto con chiarezza e guidandomi passo passo, anche nelle procedure più complesse legate al mio status di ex-residente.

Ciò che mi ha davvero colpito è stata la combinazione perfetta di competenza, efficienza e umanità: ogni mia domanda ha ricevuto risposta con prontezza, ogni dettaglio è stato gestito con attenzione e precisione, e la loro pazienza è stata infinita. Grazie a loro, un percorso che sembrava complesso e stressante è diventato semplice, sicuro e persino piacevole.

Se state pensando di trasferirvi in Giappone, non esitate: Go! Go! Nihon non offre solo assistenza, ma una vera partnership che rende l’intera esperienza fluida, sicura e incredibilmente gratificante.
Baptiste P.
Service impeccable 👍
Response from the owner:Bonjour Baptiste, merci pour votre commentaire !
gabriele G.
Veronica mi è stata accanto durante tutto l'iter. Super consigliato
lena L.
im only in japan right now thanks to gogo nihon. they're incredibly helpful, resourceful and always reply fast, making the very difficult process of applying to a language school managable. i actually cant believe that their services are for free, since they go all the way to help you, its truly incredible. not only that, they offer many solutions for new students to feel welcome and facilite their process of accomodating to japan by organizing field trips and parties. i want to especially thank reinaldi who was my personal advisor and helped me every step of the way. thank you so much gogo nihon!!!!!!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process and we hope you're enjoying your time in Japan!
Maria V.
Servizio usato due volte per studiare in Giappone, impeccabile e super affidabile!
In particolare, una nota di merito a Mara che mi ha accompagnato passo per passo, togliendomi qualsiasi dubbio (o preoccupazione), anche il più piccolo.

Sempre cordiali e velocissimi nelle risposte.
Se volete studiare in Giappone per un breve periodo o per un lungo periodo, affidatevi a loro!
Complimenti ragazzi!!!
Sara G.
Partirò ad ottobre per Tokyo, senza l’aiuto di go go nihon non avrei saputo da che parte cominciare. Mi hanno assistito per ogni passaggio da effettuare prima della partenza.
Red S.
Per fortuna esiste GoGoNihon! Fare tutto da soli sarebbe stato impossibile, invece grazie al loro aiuto in tutti i passaggi (scuola, casa, visto, ecc) è stato semplicissimo!
Matilde
Veramente cordiali e disponibili! Sono stato fantastici ad aiutarmi, non solo con le innumerevoli pratiche, ma anche a calmare l'ansia avendo la pazienza di calmare OGNI mio dubbio. Grazie mille davvero!
Giovanni I.
Grazie a Go Go Nihon la mia iscrizione a una scuola di lingua in Giappone è stata semplicissima! Si occupano di qualsiasi passaggio burocratico, seguendoti passo passo nell'invio dei documenti necessari e nello svolgimento delle varie formalità. Istruzioni dettagliate, tanti consigli utili e un servizio di assistenza personale sempre rapido e preciso (un ringraziamento particolare a Veronica!), il tutto senza alcun costo di servizio!
Jacopo G.
Professionali e sempre disponibili per rispondere a ogni domanda, affidarmi a loro è stata la scelta giusta per iniziare il mio percorso verso il Giappone con tranquillità.
Il loro aiuto in ogni fase della preparazione è stato prezioso: dalla scelta della scuola alle procedure per l'immigrazione e la ricerca di un alloggio in Giappone.
Consiglio vivamente i loro servizi a chiunque voglia fare quest'esperienza all'estero!
Ermanno G.
Servizio impeccabile.
Gaia N.
Agenzia super efficiente e rapida nelle risposte. Ti guidano praticamente in tutto e sanno indicarti e consigliarti le soluzioni migliori per il tuo viaggio studio in Giappone sempre con gentilezza e dedizione. Assolutamente consigliati. Un grosso ringraziamento a Gianluca che ha seguito tutto il mio percorso con attenzione e pazienza.
Nicolò M.
Ho sempre pensato che andare a vivere in Giappone fosse impossibile, un sogno irrealizzabile, fino a quando un giorno scorrendo su Instagram mi ritrovo un “Benvenuto in Giappone” nella pagina di GoGoNihon Italia. Mi sono iniziato ad informare su tutte le varie cose e col tempo ho capito che poteva non essere solo un sogno ma poteva diventare realtà. È iniziato tutto 2 anni fa e ora eccomi qui, a 2 settimane dalla partenza per Tokyo, con il mio sogno a portata di mano, con GoGoNihon, il mio consulente Gianluca mi ha aiutato in tutti i vari passaggi che da solo erano troppo complicati, ma spiegati passo dopo passo mi hanno permesso di fare le cose come si deve e ora é tutto pronto per la partenza. Sono veramente felice di essermi affidato a loro e ormai sono arrivato al mio sogno, super consigliato per chiunque voglia fare un esperienza simile in Giappone! Grazie GoGoNihon e grazie Gianluca!
霊ジョセフ
Esperienza totalmente positiva. Ringrazio Gianluca e il resto dello staff per avermi seguito e supportato durante questi mesi.
Viola M.
Mi sono trovata benissimo sono stati cordiali molto gentili, sempre disponibili ad aiutarti. Sono felice di aver fatto questa esperienza con loro
Isabella V.
esperienza molto positiva, assistenti tutti disponibili, comunicativi e sempre a disposizione
My V.
Go Go Nihon has helped make my dream of living and studying abroad in Japan possible!! Layna was absolutely amazing -- she helped me pick a school, answered all of my questions, responded quickly, was very thorough each step of the way, and was super kind throughout the entire process. The Go Go dashboard is also super easy to use and made the entire application process seamless. It was about a 6-7 month timeline from start to finish, so make sure to plan ahead! HIGHLY RECOMMEND GO GO NIHON!!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Andrea M.
Go! Go! Nihon è stato fantastico nell’aiutarmi ad andare in Giappone. Sono stato seguito da Mara e posso ritenermi più che soddisfatto del lavoro che ha fatto aiutandomi a trovare una Scuola di Giapponese che fa al caso mio e fornendomi tutti gli strumenti necessari per la ricerca dell’alloggio. Consiglio fortemente a chiunque voglia vivere questa esperienza in Giappone di rivolgervi a loro perché a costo zero vi daranno tutte le informazioni necessarie per poter iscriversi ad un corso in totale relax!
Greg L.
Je tiens à remercier toute l’équipe de Go! Go! Nihon pour leur soutien extraordinaire tout au long de mon dossier. Dès le début, leur dashboard est très clair et facilite énormément toutes les démarches (scolaires, administratives…).

Ils sont très réactifs, même avec le décalage horaire, ce qui m’a permis de corriger ou modifier les documents rapidement quand cela était nécessaire.

Un merci particulier à Pauline et Hanae qui ont pris en charge mon dossier avec professionnalisme et efficacité, même dans des délais courts.
Response from the owner:Bonjour Greg, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Esther L.
L’équipe de Go Go Nihon a été d’une aide infinie pour sélectionner, postuler et s’inscrire dans une des écoles de langues japonaises. J’ai été suivie par Nora et Hanae qui ont été très réactives et efficaces pour la constitution du dossier, je suis ravie du résultat n’hésitez pas foncez !
Response from the owner:Bonjour Esther, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Laurent L.
Un superbe accomapgnement de A à Z. Pauline et Hanae ont été super et vraiment professionnel, le travail et la réaction de Pauline a juste été au top. Hanae a fourni un travail dans l'ombre excellent et m'ont permis d'avoir une réponse positive d'une école. Je recommande fortement, encore merci Pauline et Hanae pour tout ce professionnalisme et continuez comme cela.
Response from the owner:Bonjour Laurent, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans votre projet d'étude au Japon.
Gabriela C.
Gente, o que dizer dessa consultoria de intercâmbio? Só tenho elogios desde o primeiro contato! Conheci por indicação de um colega e, como sempre sonhei em fazer intercâmbio no Japão, procurei a ajuda deles — e foi a melhor decisão que eu poderia ter tomado.

Desde o início, foram extremamente atenciosos. Cada dúvida, cada receio que eu tinha, eles estavam lá para esclarecer e orientar. O processo como um todo foi excelente: me ajudaram a escolher a escola que mais se encaixava nas minhas necessidades, traduziram e enviaram os documentos para o Japão, deram todo o suporte para a solicitação do visto, orientaram sobre como levar medicações, indicaram imobiliárias e tantas outras coisas que nem imaginava.

Tudo é feito com muito cuidado e carinho. Eles até preparam materiais explicativos, em português, para guiar o preenchimento de formulários obrigatórios de entrada no Japão (só o contato com as imobiliárias foi em inglês).

Quero deixar um agradecimento especial à Nina, que me acompanhou em cada etapa com dedicação e paciência. Agora, em outubro, embarco para o Japão com tudo pronto e me sentindo super tranquila.

Recomendo de coração essa consultoria a todos que sonham em viver essa experiência!
Response from the owner:Muito obrigado por compartilhar sua experiência conosco! Ficamos muito felizes em saber que conseguimos oferecer o suporte necessário em cada etapa do processo e que você se sentiu acolhida e bem orientada. Nosso objetivo é justamente tornar o caminho para o intercâmbio mais leve e seguro, para que cada estudante possa embarcar confiante nessa nova fase. Desejamos que sua experiência e estudos no Japão seja incrível e repleta de aprendizados! Conte sempre conosco no que precisar, mesmo após a sua chegada.
Norah Bloyer L.
Merci à Go! Go! Nihon et plus particulièrement Pauline et à sa collègue de m’avoir accompagné tout au long du processus des préparatifs pour le Japon. Tout s’est très bien passé avec leur aide à mes côtés. Ils ont été là pour répondre à mes questions. Le service a été rapide et clair. Je n’ai plus qu’à attendre mon départ maintenant . Merci beaucoup !
Response from the owner:Bonjour Norah, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans votre projet au Japon.
Marius S.
Un service clair, bien ordonné, et précis dans les demandes, je ne pourrais pas assez recommander cette plateforme pour vos démarche d'immigration.
Un merci particulier à Nora et Moko qui m'ont accompagnés dans mon processus d'immigration
Response from the owner:Bonjour Marius, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Aurore L.
Une grande aide pour pouvoir s'inscrire à une école de langue Japonaise! Très patients et très
à l'écoute, les personnes cherchent vraiment à nous aider dans notre projet! Je vous remercie encore 🙂
Response from the owner:Bonjour Aurore, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Zolenge B.
This site is perfect for anyone else who wants to study in Japan, but doesn’t know where to start the application process. I was helped out by Layna, who walked me through every step and answered all my questions!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
mathieu V.
I’m really happy to have chosen Go! Go! Nihon to find a school in Japan and to help me! Without the help of Pauline and Moko, I would not have been able to go study in Japan. The process was well explained, and all my questions were answered in a clear and friendly way. I highly recommend everybody to use Go! Go! Nihon (and their online courses).

Pour mes amis francophones, sachez que vous serez aidés pour les traductions depuis le français, donc n’hésitez pas !
Response from the owner:Hi Mathieu, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Alex A.
Very helpful service, staff was kind and provided clear and timely feedback for getting through the application process. My own circumstances unfortunately meant I had to cancel my application, but the staff was understanding and said I would be welcome to apply with them again if my situation changes for the better.
Response from the owner:Hi Alex, thank you for your review! We're sorry you had to cancel, but we were happy to help you.
Chris B.
All the staff are very helpful, they have helped me immensely.
Response from the owner:Hi Chris, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you!
Guest N.
I had an incredible experience with Go Go Nihon while enrolling in a Japanese language school. The entire process was so friendly and straightforward. My enrollment counselor, Layna, was especially helpful and responsive. She patiently walked me through all the steps and made what could have been a confusing process completely painless.

Layna also connected me with student housing partners, which was a huge help in finding an apartment close to my school. Thanks to her guidance, I was able to get everything arranged seamlessly.

I highly recommend Go Go Nihon for anyone considering a study abroad program in Japan.
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Noah B.
Really great overall! The process has been long but it has been easy thanks to GoGoNihon!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Helen N.
Saskia helped me out through the entire process, from helping choose a school to any questions or concerns I had. I was kept informed of the process over the 10 months we had correspondence.
Response from the owner:Hello Helen, thank you for your review. We're happy we could help you!
William
Nora et Ayumi m'ont parfaitement accompagné pendant plusieurs mois pour me conseiller en fonction de mon profil et sécuriser l'école de mon choix, merci beaucoup ! Je vous recommande d'utiliser les services de Go! Go! Nihon, vous gagnerez beaucoup de temps pour votre expatriation concernant les démarches administratives, et vous obtiendrez aussi beaucoup d'informations utiles qui amélioreront la qualité de votre départ et installation dans le pays.
Response from the owner:Bonjour, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Karyna B.
My husband and I applied for Oct 2025 semester to study Japanese long term through Go! Go! Nihon. This was a clear and straightforward process thanks to Saskia! She helped us select a school, provided full support every step of the way, gave us all the details we needed, and ensured meeting all deadlines for the application. Thank you, Go! Go! Nihon and Saskia for the seamless experience, much appreciated!
Response from the owner:Hi Karyna, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you and your husband throughout the whole process. We can't wait for you to get here in October!
Dmytro
When we decided to attend a language school in Japan, some light research lead us to GoGoNihon as one of the most recommended conduits for the application process. I can now see why, although this was our first time using a service like this, and it was very straightforward and simple. Special thanks to our coordinator Saskia for answering all of our questions and helping us through the entire process! From recommending various language schools that could meet our needs to helping us through the actual application steps, she made the whole thing very easy! Now we are excited to start our classes in October!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process. We can't wait for you to start classes in October!
malice
My agents name was Silvia and she was amazing. Fast responses, answered all of my questions, easy to understand and gave me step-by-step instructions on all of the tasks and paperwork I needed to complete to get to Japan. I recommend her to everyone I know hoping to study in Japan.
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Киана П.
I highly recommend using GoGo Nihon if you’re interested in applying to a Japanese language school abroad. I had the pleasure of being guided by Silvia through this process step-by-step. She has provided all the information I need and helped answer any questions I had. I’m very much looking forward to attend the language school I have chosen and am grateful for the amazing support given. Thank you, Silvia!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Bradon B.
Amazingly simple program that helps you get the opportunity to study a language abroad with ease! The staff is very helpful and communicative, it feels like they really want to help you! I highly recommend checking GoGo out if you're interested learning a language abroad!
Response from the owner:Hi Bradon, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.

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

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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.

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!
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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
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Live and study abroad in Japan

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Important Information for a Successful Study Abroad in Japan