Japan Student Visa
All international students aiming to study in Japan for more than 6 months must obtain a student visa. The length of student visa depends on the course in which you enrol.
Visa for Japanese language studies
A maximum 2-year student visa is applicable for language studies in Japan. The length of the visa depends on the month in which the course starts.
For example, if you enrol in April, you can apply for a full 2-year visa. However, if you enrol in July, the visa period will be reduced to 1 year and 9 months.
The later you enrol, the shorter your student visa will be. Therefore, it would be beneficial for students to enrol in April.
Visa for University studies
A student visa for university students is valid for the duration of their enrolled course in Japan.
Undergraduate courses take 4 years to complete. Students will be granted a 4-year visa.
Postgraduate studies last 2 to 3 years. A student visa will be granted accordingly.
At the end of the degree course, students who are progressing to further studies at university will need to renew their visas. Applications for renewal can be made 3 months prior to expiry through university.
Any delay in renewal could jeopardise your studies, so make sure you plan well ahead to ensure your visa is renewed in time for you to continue your studies.
Requirements for a Japan student visa application
- Student visa application form
- Most recent bank statements for the last 3 months
- Financial certificates from your financial sponsor, such as tax returns or an employment certificate
The above documents are required to demonstrate that your sponsor can support you financially throughout your studies in Japan.
Note that the Immigration Office may ask you to provide additional documents.
A peace of mind with Pathway Japan
The student visa application process in Japan is complex and requires great attention to detail. Any mistakes on the student visa application form can have disastrous consequences. Even more so if required documents are insufficient.
You should avoid any situation that could result in your application being rejected.
With Pathway Japan, you can rest assured. We will guide you through the process, ensuring that your documents are in order and submitted on time.
Other types of visa
Visitor Visa
Nationals from the 74 listed countries can enter Japan and obtain a visitor visa upon arrival. Visitors from 70 of these countries will be granted a 90-day stay. Those from non-listed countries must apply for a visa prior to arrival.
This visa type is suitable for those enrolling on a short-term course. Japanese language schools offer courses ranging from 2 weeks to 3 months.
Working Holiday Visa
A Working Holiday Visa is applicable by nationals from 30 countries aged between 18 and 30. It is valid for one year and must be obtained before arriving in Japan.
This visa allows you to study, work and enjoy life in Japan!
FAQ
What is a resident ID card?
On arrival in Japan, the immigration officer will issue an ID card to all student visa holders. It shows your visa status and the expiry date. This ID card must be carried at all times.
Students must also
register with the local government office within 14 days of their arrival. A
national health insurance card will then be issued. The insurance covers 70% of
medical expenses, provided the annual insurance fee is paid. The cost varies by
region.
Can I stay in Japan after completing a course?
No. The student visa is only valid for the duration of the course you are studying. Your resident ID card should state your visa status and the expiry date.
Remaining in Japan after visa expiry is a breach of the law. To avoid this, you should apply for a new course and renew your visa before the current one expires.
Can a foreign student work in Japan?
Generally no. The purpose of a student visa is for international students to study in Japan. Therefore, students are not permitted to undertake employment. However, to help with their living costs, they are allowed to work part-time for up to 28 hours per week.
To do this, you will need to obtain a permit from the immigration authorities on arrival in Japan. It can also be applied at the immigration office.
Once you have obtained a permit, you must inform your language school/university before applying for a job. As part of their duty of care towards students, they monitor attendance to ensure that students keep up with their studies.