LIVE IN JAPAN

Japan has a unique culture and language, and people like it. Many students came to Japan every year, by scholarship or by themself. So if you are planning to come to Japan to study, for over 3 months, do you know how to apply for a study visa?

Step 1: Have you apply for a school? Or on your way to enrolling in one?

All universities in Japan will sponsor your visa, which you might not need to do much, as you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from your school, with instruction to apply.

For others, you can choose between multiple different language schools, vocational schools. They have different teaching styles and atmosphere, so choose wisely for your learning style. After you enroll, they will also send you a COE, but you will have to do the rest by yourself.

Step 2: The study visa application process

  • The school will take you in, apply on your behalf for a COE at the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
  • After that they will send you a COE by international mail. (Note: it is a long process, can take 2-3 months just to have your COE ready)
  • After obtaining your COE, you must bring it along with your visa application form, photo, valid passport to the Japan embassy at your country of residence.
  • The process of issuing visa take on average of 1 to 2 working weeks.

Step 3: What document should you prepare for your study visa application.

First, check the website of the Japanese embassy at your living area, where you can find the Student Application Form (not Tourist).

Second, prepare ID Photos (4cm high × 3cm wide), with guideline such as:

  • Clear and full front view of your face
  • No sunglasses, no hat
  • Your eyes and ears should be visible
  • Taken within 3 months prior to your application

Third, a copy of your passport, with the Photo/ID and Signature page, as well as any previous entry and exit stamps.

Fourth, your Academic documents, or proof of graduation, diploma, etc.

And Final, a copy of your financial statement.

You must show your abilities to aquired sufficient funds to support yourself. These documents can help with the process:

  • Bank statements
  • Income statements
  • The Financial Aid award letter
  • Scholarship award letters
  • Letter of sponsorship

If you are coming to Japan as a student, what do you think about living homestay with a Japanese host family?

At Homii Homestay, there are many students who came and found their second family, or a brother, a sister. Living with a Japanese local is the best way for you to learn about the culture and the language. Furthermore, living in Japan alone might be lonely, let’s make more friends together!

Leave a Reply