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

Matthew

Made the process very easy to follow

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!!

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.

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!

Blake S.

The application process was fairly straightforward, and any questions I had were answered in detail; the people overseeing my application were incredibly accommodating.

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

Jovel C.

GoGoNihon, and in particular Silvia, has been an amazing partner in our journey to apply for language study and move to Japan. It's amazing how responsive and supportive the staff has been! I highly recommend partnering with GoGoNihon for your Japan study abroad dreams. The process is quite complex and a quite overwhelming but GoGoNihon has streamlined the process and provides individual support to handle unique circumstances. Thank you Silvia for all your help!

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

Mickaël U.

J’ai très bien été accompagné pour trouver et m’inscrire dans une école de langue correspondant à mes objectifs.
Lorsque j’avais des interrogations, j’avais toujours une réponse au maximum le lendemain.
Un grand merci à Nora et Hanae !

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

Livio_vltp

Une très bonne expérience pour le moment, merci à Pauline et Ayumi !

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

Björn H.

Go Go Nihon var väldigt hjälpsamma med att hitta och ansöka till en skola i Japan, skulle använda deras tjänst igen!

Response from the owner:Hej Björn, tack för din recension! Vi är glada att kunna hjälpa dig genom hela processen och göra den enklare för dig!

Sophie T.

I heard about Go! Go! Nihon and took a chance. After scrolling on their page, you'll find everything it is you need to know about Japan. Whether you have interest in learning the language, studying abroad, or even a short term stay to learn/experience the country. Reaching out to one of the coordinators was the first step in beginning my journey with Go! Go! Nihon! I couldn't have accomplished what I have done up until this today, without them and especially my coordinator, Kristina. A huge thank you goes to her for helping me every step of the way and answering what ever questions I had. She was understanding and gave reassurance in moments of confusion. Thank you, Kristina, for your patience, assistance, and overall kindness throughout this process. Thank you Go! Go! Nihon! for being accessible, informative and responsive, to those who are curious of what life may be like staying in Japan.

Response from the owner:Hello Sophie, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process and we hope you'll enjoy your life in Japan!

Sabrina R.

Non posso far altro che raccomandare GogoNihon se volete andare in Giappone, soprattutto per studiare (in quanto si tratta della mia esperienza). Sono stata in Giappone nel novembre 2024, partecipando alla Study Trip invernale e sostenuto l'esame JLPT a Tokyo. GoGo Nihon e i suoi collaboratori sono sempre stati presenti e sono stati fondamentali per l'alloggio, la scuola e l'esame, anche le attività proposte durante il mio soggiorno sono state davvero interessanti. Ora sto per tornare in Giappone per un anno, e grazie al loro lavoro la scelta della scuola, la ricerca dell'alloggio e tutta la burocrazia di richiesta del visto sono stati molto più semplici. Sempre disponibili e cortesi, sono sempre presenti in caso di necessità e cercano sempre di aiutare nel caso si presenti qualche problema. Grazie davvero GoGoNihon, ci vediamo in Giappone ad aprile!! 🤩⭐️🌸

Response from the owner:Ciao Sabrina,
Grazie per le bellissime parole!
Siamo contenti ti sia trovata bene con il nostro servizio per entrambe le esperienze! 🙂
Ti auguriamo un in bocca al lupo per gli studi e speriamo di vederti al Welcome Event!

Aurore D.

Je suis passée par Go! Go! Nihon pour trouver mon école de japonais et je ne regrette absolument pas mon choix.
Le service est vraiment super. Ils ont su me proposer une école parfaitement adaptée à mon projet et à mes attentes. Je pense que sans leur aide, je n’aurais pas réussi à constituer un dossier aussi solide ni à mener toutes ces démarches avec autant de sérénité.
L’équipe est vraiment impliquée et présente à chaque étape. Un immense merci à Pauline et Akiko qui se sont occupées de mon dossier. Elles ont été adorables, toujours à l’écoute, très réactives et rassurantes. Elles m’ont guidée dans un processus qui peut vite devenir stressant quand on est seul, et leur soutien a vraiment fait toute la différence.
Je recommande Go! Go! Nihon les yeux fermés. Je suis très reconnaissante d’avoir pu concrétiser ce projet grâce à elles. Merci encore !

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

Kayode S.

I was assisted by May and Kristina who have been very helpful throughout the process of applying for a language school.

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

Bruno Tekić S.

Wonderful experience!
Reinaldi assisted in every part of the process and the whole team at GoGoNihon is really helpful. 10/10

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

Josipa Tekić S.

Great experience, Reinaldi is an amazing coordinator!

Response from the owner:Hello Josipa, thank you for your review!

Reb

Such a helpful resource. They made the process of applying to and communicating with my Japanese school infinitely easier. Thank you to my coordinator, Reinaldi.

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

Kilian M.

Parfait accompagnement durant le processus, merci beaucoup pour votre aide

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

Dayna Z.

From the first message to the final admissions determination, Go! Go! Nihon was always in my corner— guiding me through choosing the school best suited to my learning goals, briefing me on the proper documents to prepare, proofing my application to make sure I hadn’t made any errors, and providing additional Go! Go! Nihon web articles tailored to the millions of questions a prospective student has about getting settled, what to expect once school begins, and how to have the best experience while in Japan— truly, this has been an indispensable resource for me. Shout out to my wonderful advisor, Silvia, for all of her patience and thorough assistance!

If you don’t know where to start when looking at Japanese Language schooling, then start by reaching out to Go! Go! Nihon.

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

Kate A.

Muy recomendable, me ayudaron con todos los trámites, la vivienda y a escoger la escuela correcta para los objetivos que necesitaba. Si realmente quieren venir a vivir y estudiar a Japón y que el trámite sea cero pesado Go Go Nihon es la opción 🙂

Response from the owner:Gracias por tu reseña, Kate; y por hacernos saber que todo ha salido bien y que estás contenta con la atención recibida. ¡Te deseamos una muy buena estancia y experiencia en Japón!

csz

I’ve had an amazing experience looking for a Japanese language school especially with the help from Kristina! She’s been nothing but helpful, kind and patient with me even when I’d ask some stupid questions sometimes, the communication is always on point with very quick responses and she always made sure I wouldn’t miss anything important during the process as well as helping me fix and correct some mistakes I had made with my application! Thank you GoGoNihon and Kristina for making this such a perfect and smooth experience, I really couldn’t ask for anything more! <3

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

ElinBlue

Jag hade inte fixat hela denna ansökningsprocess utan GoGo Nihons tålmodiga hjälp! Proffsigt och mycket vänligt stöd hela vägen!

Response from the owner:Tack för ditt fina betyg! Vi är glada att kunna hjälpa dig genom hela processen och göra den enklare för dig!

Piotr J.

I recommend working with Go! Go! Nihon! 🌸

Thanks to their support, the entire application process for my school in Japan was smooth and clear. From the very beginning, I could rely on their professional guidance in choosing the right school, detailed instructions regarding the required documents, and quick, thorough communication at every stage of the application process.

Their help with all the formalities related to moving to Japan was truly invaluable — from preparing visa documents and coordinating with the school to providing guidance about arrival and settling in. Every question I had was answered patiently and clearly, which gave me a strong sense of confidence and reassurance throughout the journey.

I would especially like to express my sincere gratitude to my coordinator, Layna 💛 She was always responsive, supportive, kind and made sure I didn’t miss any important steps.

If you’re considering studying in Japan and are looking for reliable, professional support with both the application process and relocation formalities, I highly recommend Go! Go! Nihon.

Response from the owner:Hello Piotr, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process and we hope you'll enjoy your studies in Japan!

William N.

Go Go Nihon is a tremendously helpful service for guiding those aspiring to live or study abroad in Japan, all the while being free. My contact Layna was extremely responsive to questions and issues that came up, which is crucial given how much proper advance preparation needs to be done to make living abroad a reality. Thanks so much for help!

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

Vincent L.

Layna was super helpful, made my experience very comfortable, and provided clear instructions.

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

İbrahim Kaya U.

My advisor was very involved with the process. whenever I had a question about my journey. She was also very kind and I didn't get any late replies. Also, I didn't feel stuck in the process because of how helpful Layna was, giving me advices and correcting my small mistakes throughout the process. The Go!Go!Nihon site is super easy to use, and very informative. I did much of my research about the daily life in japan, and other things related to do paperwork based on what I found on the site. They are attentive, caring, and a very good assistance. If you have thoughts about studying in Japan, you will not regret joining Go!Go!Nihon. It was truly a fun process. I will update this review with photos when I get there.

Response from the owner:Hello Ibrahim, thank you for your review! We're happy to be helping you throughout the whole process and we can't wait for you to start your life in Japan!

Hito On P.

Layna has been extremely helpful every step of the way. I would highly recommend anyone interested in studying in Japan to reach out and use GoGo Nihon.

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

Zuzana Yada J.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Layna has been an incredible support during my Japan study application. She’s kind, patient, and always quick to respond — even when things got confusing or stressful. Her clarity and calm approach really made a difference. I truly appreciate her guidance and feel much more confident thanks to her!
THANK YOU, LAYNA!

Response from the owner:Hello Zuzana, thank you for your review! Layna and the team are more than happy to be helping you throughout the whole process!

Khadastrophe

An organization that does a fantastic job at easing the fear and headache of wanting to study abroad. I was fortunate enough to be connected with Layna, who was exceptional as my main contact and guide. She was super friendly and her communication was top notch. No questions were left unanswered and the process for applying was absolutely flawless. Without her, this process would of been far more stressful than I could ever imagine. Would definitely recommend Go! Go! Nihon with a guide like her.

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

Carlo G.

I recently worked with Layna at GoGo Nihon to help me get into a language school in Shibuya. I reached out to GoGo Nihon out of curiosity if I was able to apply, and if I met the requirements to join a language school. Layna helped me choose my school by giving me several recommendations. She laid out very clearly the cost of living and tuition costs, as well as all of the requirements that the school requires or that the student Visa application requires.

The school term year that best fit what I was looking for actually started a little over a year after I had originally reached out to Go Go Nihon. Layna helped me by staying in contact through out the whole year and updating me with status updates and next steps. Layna helped all the way from listing out schools for me, to sending the correct documents to the school, to applying for apartments couple months before the term starts.

I definitely recommend going through GoGo Nihon if you have any curiosity about applying to a language school.

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

Isabellay S.

Very nice, very patient. Always answered my questions to the best ability

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

Lucas F.

Estive em contato com a Go! Go! Nihon por mais de um ano, buscando orientações e esclarecendo dúvidas sobre estudar no Japão. Em meados de 2025, finalmente consegui me organizar para passar o mês de janeiro de 2026 estudando japonês no país, e o suporte da equipe foi impecável do início ao fim. Gostaria de destacar especialmente a Tiemi, profissional que me acompanhou com extrema paciência e atenção durante todo o processo. Sempre solícita, garantiu que eu tivesse informações claras e seguras em cada etapa, desde a escolha da escola e matrícula até a documentação, acomodação e organização da viagem. Toda a experiência foi simples, tranquila e muito bem conduzida. Fiquei extremamente satisfeito com o atendimento e, sem dúvida, contarei novamente com a Go! Go! Nihon nas próximas oportunidades. Muito obrigado!

Response from the owner:Olá Lucas! Muito obrigado por compartilhar sua experiência conosco! Foi um prazer poder te ajudar durante todo o processo e esperamos que a sua viagem e estudos no Japão tenha sido incrível. Conte conosco na próxima vez!

Gofran A.

I used Go! Go! Nihon to enroll in ARC Academy Shinjuku for the January term, and the whole experience was amazing. Silvia was an incredible help, she patiently answered all of my questions, even the smallest ones. I’m truly happy with this service and couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Thanks to Go! Go! Nihon, I’m finally able to begin my dream of studying in Japan. Thank you so much for all your support.

Response from the owner:Hello Gofran, thank you for your review! We were happy to be helping you throughout the whole process and we hope you're enjoying your studies at ARC Academy!

x X.

Je suis très content d'avoir trouvé le site GO! GO! Nihon. Grâce a eux tout c'est déroulé tranquillement.
Merci à Akane et Nora pour toute l'aide apportées.

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

patrick B.

Super expérience. Equipe super réactive et efficace. Merci encore Nora et spéciale dédicace à Akane. Maël

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

brianna M.

super friendly staff offering a totally free service!! my contact, silvia, has been super helpful in her quick responses and insight. thank you go go nihon!

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

Mr S.

Attention to detail, friendly service, and very caring are what made me want to recommend GO! GO! Nihon. I unfortunately was not able to complete and go through with my application due to financial reasons, but Layna was understanding and gave me options to schools, as well as what I could do once I withdrew my application.

I will have to put my dream on hold for now while I get my finances in order, but I hope to hop on and get to Japan some time in my future. Thanks Layna, and thanks GO! GO! Nihon!!!

Response from the owner:Hello, thank you for your review! We're sorry you couldn't go through with your application this time, but whenever you're ready in the future, we will be more than happy to help you!

Aurore Clair De L.

Go Go Nihon ! ou comment simplifier vos démarches administratives pour étudier au Japon.

Équipe compétente, disponible, à l'écoute et de bons conseils. Je vous recommande vraiment de contacter directement le personnel de Go Go Nihon ! (Pauline, Nora et Moko) après avoir lu les différentes descriptions des écoles sur le site afin d'être orienté.e au mieux selon vos critères et attentes concernant celle-ci.
Ma principale interlocutrice était Pauline, pour ne pas reprendre les qualificatifs précédemment énoncés, je suis entièrement satisfaite de son travail. C'est elle qui m'a recommandé l'université dans laquelle j'étudie depuis 2 semaines et elle correspond exactement à mes souhaits : un rythme soutenu qui permet de s'améliorer rapidement.
Je la remercie donc encore très chaleureusement pour son aide, sa gentillesse et sa patience. Merci également à Nora qui a servi de relais pendant ses vacances et Moko qui œuvre dans l'ombre : grâce à vous trois je réalise un de mes rêves et objectifs.

Response from the owner:Bonjour Aurore, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous avons aidé dans vos projets au Japon, nous vous souhaitons le meilleur pour vos études !

Alberto S.

Todo fue genial, tuve un trato cercano, y la chica que administró mi solicitud siempre estuvo atenta y rápida con todas mis dudas.

Response from the owner:¡Muchas gracias por tu reseña Alberto! ¡Ha sido un placer asistirte en el proceso!

maya B.

Ich habe mich während des gesamten Vermittlungsprozesses sehr gut betreut gefühlt. Das Team, bzw mein Betreuer, arbeitet äußerst zuverlässig, reagiert schnell, vor allem dann, wenn es wirklich wichtig ist, und ist auch bei komplizierteren Umständen jederzeit ansprechbar und hilfsbereit.

Die Beratung war kompetent und individuell: Es wurde gezielt auf unterschiedliche Konditionen der jeweiligen Sprachschulen hingewiesen und diese transparent mit meinem persönlichen Vorhaben abgeglichen. Besonders hilfreich fand ich auch den Zoom-Call zu Beginn, bei dem man sich kurz persönlich kennenlernen und Erwartungen sowie Angebote in Ruhe besprechen konnte.

Alles in allem ein sehr guter, professioneller Service, den ich definitiv weiterempfehlen kann.

Response from the owner:Hi Maya! Vielen Dank für deine ausführliche Rezension. Wir freuen uns sehr darüber, dass du so eine positive Erfahrung hattest und wünschen dir das Beste für deinen Japanaufenthalt!

Naoki L.

Fantastic help! Answered many questions and kept in contact with me for months, helping me plan my departure and learning journey. I would highly recommend reaching out! I want to give a special thanks to Saskia! They were a huge help! 😁

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

Lorris H.

très bonne expérience.
Le support est très réactif et a l'écoute.
La recherche d'école s'est faite sans problème.

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

Paola Sanchez V.

Recibí mucha información, ayuda y guía de todos los cursos y procesos.

Response from the owner:¡Muchas gracias por tu reseña, Paola! Nos alegra saber que ha ido bien todo el proceso. Ha sido un placer atenderte.

Adrian R.

When I decided that I wanted to study in Japan. I thought it was going to be extremely difficult to do. But I'm so glad I used Gogonihon to help me. They have been very helpful with every step of the way. I would without hesitation recommend them to anyone coming to Study in Japan.

Response from the owner:Hello Adrian, thank you for your review! We're happy our service could be of help!

Kinlith

Matt was great at helping me start my studies in Japan

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

Siayan B.

I had the pleasure of having Matt help me though the process of my journey to Japan. From choosing the perfect school that match what I’m looking for allll the way through the final steps. Timely responses and accurate advice and solutions to any problem that arose. Astonishing patience and understanding.10/10 service

Response from the owner:Hi Siayan, thank you for the positive review! We hope you have an amazing time in Japan.

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.