International students planning to study in Japan will now face a more detailed visa and immigration process following strict requirements outlined by Japanese authorities.
According to a report by the Economic Times on Wednesday, the “Study in Japan” portal operated by the Japan Student Services Organization stated that prospective students must complete several stages before they can begin studies in the country.
The process includes securing admission into a recognised institution, obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), applying for a student visa, and completing residence registration after arrival in Japan.
A major requirement in the process is the Certificate of Eligibility, which serves as proof that the student satisfies Japan’s immigration conditions for long-term study.
The COE is processed through a regional immigration services bureau in Japan, usually with the admitting school or university acting on behalf of the student.
Authorities warned that applicants without a COE could face difficulties obtaining a student visa.
Students were also advised to maintain close communication with their institutions regarding the required documents and application timelines.
As part of the visa requirements, applicants must provide evidence of financial capacity to support themselves throughout their stay in Japan.
Accepted documents include bank statements, income records, or sponsorship papers showing the source of funds for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
After obtaining the COE, students can proceed to apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
Required documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport photographs, and a copy of the COE, alongside any additional documents requested by immigration officials.
Students are expected to present these documents again upon arrival in Japan for immigration clearance.
Authorities also stated that students staying longer than three months would receive a residence card, known as a zairyu card, at designated airports including Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and Fukuoka.
New residents must register their address at a local municipal office within 14 days of arrival and are required to carry the residence card at all times while living in Japan.
International students will also be issued a 12-digit identification number under Japan’s “My Number” system after completing residence registration.
The identification system is used for taxation, banking, employment, and other government-related services. Students may additionally apply for a My Number card for official identification purposes.
For students visiting Japan only to sit entrance examinations, authorities said a Temporary Visitor visa would be required, supported by an official examination voucher from the institution.
Depending on nationality, temporary stays may last between 15 and 90 days.
In some situations, successful applicants may still need to return to their home country after examinations to apply for a full student visa before resuming studies in Japan.
The updated guidelines reflect Japan’s structured immigration approach for international students, with strong emphasis placed on documentation, financial verification, and compliance after arrival.