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Complete Student Visa Guide

Japan Student Visa

Your pathway to studying in Japan

Everything you need to know about applying for a student visa to Japan

Application Process

Simple steps to your Japan dream

1

Choose Your Institution

1-2 weeks

Select a Japanese language school or university. We help you choose from our 100+ partner institutions based on your goals, budget, and location preferences.

2

Prepare Application Documents

2-3 weeks

Gather all required documents including educational certificates, financial proof, passport copies, and application forms. Our team provides a comprehensive checklist and reviews your documents.

3

Submit Application to School

1-2 weeks

Submit your application to the chosen institution. The school will review your application and forward it to the immigration bureau if approved.

4

COE Application Processing

2-3 months

The school applies for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the Immigration Bureau. This is the most critical step in the process.

5

Receive COE

1 week

Once approved, the COE is issued and sent to the school, who then forwards it to you. This is your authorization to apply for the actual visa.

6

Apply for Visa at Embassy

1-2 weeks

With the COE in hand, apply for the student visa at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country. Submit the COE, passport, photos, and application form.

7

Receive Visa & Travel

1 week

Collect your passport with the student visa stamp. Book your flight and prepare for departure. We provide pre-departure orientation and support.

Required Documents

Complete checklist for your application

Valid Passport

Required

Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Japan

Passport-sized Photos

Required

Recent photos (4.5cm x 4.5cm) with white background, taken within last 6 months

Visa Application Form

Required

Completed and signed application form for student visa

Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Required

Original COE issued by Japanese Immigration Bureau

Academic Certificates

Required

High school or university transcripts and graduation certificates

Financial Documents

Required

Bank statements showing ¥2M+ for 1 year study, in your or sponsor's name

Sponsorship Letter

Letter from sponsor (if applicable) with their income proof and relationship documents

Study Plan

Required

Statement explaining your study goals and career plans

Japanese Language Certificate

JLPT or NAT-TEST certificate (N5 or higher recommended)

School Acceptance Letter

Required

Letter of acceptance from Japanese educational institution

Personal Information

Required

Curriculum vitae and family information form

Cost Breakdown

Estimated expenses for student visa and first year

Application & Visa Fees

School Application Fee

One-time fee paid to the institution

Â¥20,000 - 50,000

Visa Application Fee

Fee at Japanese Embassy/Consulate

3,000 NPR

COE Processing

Optional

No charge for COE application

Free

Tuition Fees (Annual)

Language School

Per year for full-time study

Â¥600,000 - 800,000

Vocational School

Per year depending on program

Â¥800,000 - 1,200,000

University

Per year for undergraduate programs

Â¥500,000 - 1,500,000

Living Expenses (Monthly)

Accommodation

Dormitory or shared apartment in major cities

Â¥50,000 - 80,000

Food & Groceries

Monthly food expenses

Â¥30,000 - 40,000

Transportation

Train/bus passes

Â¥10,000 - 15,000

Utilities & Phone

Electricity, water, internet, mobile

Â¥10,000 - 15,000

Initial Costs

Flight Ticket

One-way ticket Nepal to Japan

NPR 50,000 - 80,000

Initial Settlement

Optional

First month expenses, deposits

Â¥100,000 - 150,000

Total First Year Cost: ¥1.5M - 2.5M (NPR 15-25 Lakhs)

Eligibility Requirements

Who can apply for a student visa

Academic Requirements

  • Completed at least 12 years of education (high school)
  • Good academic record in previous studies
  • Basic Japanese language ability (N5 level recommended)
  • Clear study plan and career goals

Financial Requirements

  • Minimum Â¥2,000,000 in bank account
  • Funds must be available for at least 3 months
  • Can be in student's or sponsor's name
  • Clear proof of fund source required

Other Requirements

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • No criminal record
  • Good health condition
  • Genuine intention to study
  • Return intention after study completion

Application Intakes

Four entry periods per year

POPULAR
April
Spring Intake

Most popular intake with maximum available courses

Apply by: October (previous year)

Benefits:

  • Largest intake period
  • Most course options
  • Better scholarship opportunities
  • Ideal for fresh graduates
July
Summer Intake

Good option with decent course availability

Apply by: January

Benefits:

  • Good course selection
  • Shorter wait time
  • Less competitive
  • 9-month programs available
October
Fall Intake

Second largest intake after April

Apply by: April

Benefits:

  • Many course options
  • 1.5 year programs
  • Good for working professionals
  • Moderate competition
January
Winter Intake

Smallest intake with limited courses

Apply by: July (previous year)

Benefits:

  • Less competitive
  • Quick processing
  • 1 year 3 month programs
  • Suitable for gap students

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.How long does the entire visa process take?

The complete process typically takes 4-6 months from application submission to receiving your visa. COE processing alone takes 2-3 months.

Q2.Can I work while studying in Japan?

Yes, with proper work permission. Student visa holders can work up to 28 hours per week during semester and full-time during holidays.

Q3.What is the minimum Japanese language requirement?

While not mandatory, N5 level (basic) is recommended. Language schools accept beginners, but having basic knowledge helps with visa approval and daily life.

Q4.How much money do I need to show in my bank account?

Minimum ¥2,000,000 (approximately NPR 20 lakhs) for one year of study. Funds should be maintained for at least 3 months before application.

Q5.Can my parents sponsor my education?

Yes, parents or close relatives can sponsor your education. You'll need to provide their income proof, bank statements, and relationship documents.

Q6.What happens if my COE is rejected?

If rejected, you can reapply in the next intake after addressing the rejection reasons. We provide full support for reapplication at no extra cost.

Q7.Can I extend my student visa?

Yes, you can extend your visa by enrolling in higher education (from language school to university) or continuing your current program.

Q8.Do I need health insurance in Japan?

Yes, all students must enroll in National Health Insurance (Â¥2,000-3,000/month) which covers 70% of medical costs.

Q9.Can I bring my family on a student visa?

Students in university/graduate programs can bring dependents. Language school students generally cannot, unless they have substantial financial proof.

Q10.What is the visa success rate?

With proper documentation and our expert guidance, the success rate is over 95%. We thoroughly review all documents before submission.

Why Choose Aspira for Your Student Visa

100+ Partner Schools

Direct partnerships with top language schools and universities across Japan

95% Success Rate

Proven track record with thorough document review and expert guidance

Complete Support

From school selection to arrival in Japan - we're with you all the way

Ready to Start Your Japan Journey?

Book a free consultation with our Japan visa experts

Free eligibility assessment
School recommendations
Complete visa guidance