How to Apply for a Japan Student Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on: Sep 5, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

How to Apply for a Japan Student Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you planning to pursue higher education in Japan? The high-class infrastructure and world-class universities are some of the striking reasons that attract international students to Japan. Not only this, but the country's rich cultural heritage also adds to its popularity.

Every year, various students from India travel to Japan for their higher studies and career growth opportunities. If you are also planning to, you will need to have the required documents as well. A passport and a visa are two essential travel documents required for travel to Japan. The visa application process and interview may take time and should be completed beforehand to avoid last-minute hassles.

This is a detailed guide that explains all you need to know about the study visa for Japan. Read on to be prepared and plan your journey without any hassle.

Did you know that the Japanese Ambassador to India, Hiroshi F. Suzuki, has welcomed Indian students to explore opportunities in Japan? He stated that getting a visa is quite simple. All you need to show is your student ID card!

Japan Student Visa Guide

Getting a Japan student visa is a must for anyone who is planning to study in Japan. You can obtain the visa from a nearby Japanese embassy or consulate. The first step, however, is to apply to universities or schools where you want to get admission in Japan. Once the formalities with the university are complete and your admission is confirmed, you may proceed with making travel arrangements. Don't forget to buy student travel insurance before your departure to stay covered during your stay in Japan.

Also, if you’re planning sightseeing during your course duration or short trips back home, having international travel insurance will ensure you're protected throughout.

The time required for the Japan visa process can take 10–15 days or even longer in some cases. Therefore, it is best to apply in advance so that you don't have to rush right before travelling. If you're wondering about the best time to visit Japan, it’s typically during the cherry blossom season (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and scenic beauty is at its peak.

Types of Student Visas for Japan

Japan now offers only one type of student visa, which is known as the Ryugaku visa¹. With a student visa, you may get to stay for 6 months to 2 years, depending on the duration of your course. If you have a study course that ends within 90 days, you may also travel to Japan on a general travel visa. However, if it exceeds 90 days, obtaining a student visa becomes mandatory.

Eligibility Criteria for Japan Study Visa

Before you apply for a Japan study visa, it is essential to check your eligibility to avoid unnecessary hassle. As an Indian, if you want to study in Japan, here are the eligibility criteria that you must fulfil to secure a Japan student visa and travel to Japan:

1. Get a COE (Certificate Of Eligibility)

The first step is to secure a COE. The certificate of eligibility can be obtained with the help of a proxy in Japan. It can be a family member or the university/school itself. The institution where you have applied for studies will act as your proxy and help obtain the certificate of eligibility. Once you have obtained the COE, you are one step closer to obtaining the Japan student visa.

2. Financial Capability

Anyone from India who wants to study in Japan must be financially capable of doing so. You may be asked to provide proof of sufficient finances to cover your expenses during your stay in Japan.

It is also advisable to purchase travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and loss of belongings, which may not be covered by your general health insurance.

Application Process for a Japanese Student Visa

Once you have the required documents and COE with you, the Japan visa process can be started. Here are the steps that you need to follow for a student visa in Japan:

1. You may download the student visa application form online or get it from a nearby consulate

2. Fill the form correctly and attach the required documents

3. Submit the student visa application form at the nearby consulate and pay the visa fees

4. After submission, the authority will verify your application form. Upon successful verification, your visa will be confirmed and stamped.

5. It may take 10-15 days or longer to confirm the visa.

Once your visa is stamped, you may begin travel plans. Do not forget to obtain Japan travel insurance to ensure your stay in the foreign country is secure. It covers against the unforeseen travel mishaps that may otherwise take a toll on your trip.

Japan Student Visa Required Documents

As mentioned above, the Japanese foreign minister stated that Indian students only need to present their student ID card to have their visa stamped. However, other documents may be required by the embassy.

Usually, when you are applying for a Japan student visa, you need to submit a few documents as well. These documents must be prepared before you begin the visa application process to avoid unnecessary back-and-forth. The documents that you may need are:

1. A valid passport

2. Photographs

3. Certificate of eligibility (COE)

4. Visa application form

5. Proof of finances

6. Admission letter from the university/school

Apart from the ones mentioned above, the embassy may also request additional documents, such as proof of residency and other supporting documents.

Best Time to Apply for a Japan Student Visa

Depending on the type of course, the session may differ. The course start date may also differ. Therefore, it is advisable to apply for a Japanese student visa several months in advance of the course start date. It is beneficial to have 1-2 months' notice before your travel date.

Doing so helps you plan your trip more effectively. In some cases, the visa may be rejected for certain reasons, or it may take time to be approved. In such cases, you must allow sufficient time to get the visa stamped before your trip. So, it is advised to avoid filling out visa forms a few weeks before your trip. Doing so months ago can be helpful!

Conclusion

Applying for a Japan student visa requires multiple things to be done. First, you need to obtain admission confirmation from your university or school, and then proceed with the next steps. Although it is a multi-level process, it is well-structured and organised. So, you can easily apply for the Japan student visa without any hassle. Ensure you have all the necessary documents before beginning the process.

Even if your visa is rejected, you may reapply by addressing the cause of rejection. In the end, do not forget to seal the safety of your trip with international travel insurance. It not only keeps your trip safe but also gives you the much-needed peace of mind. In the event of travel mishaps, such as flight cancellations, loss of luggage, or documents, your travel insurance is there to cover the resulting losses. You can easily purchase travel insurance online from the comfort of your own home. Get ready to experience world-class education facilities in the land of the rising sun.

FAQs

1. How long does it usually take to get a Japanese student visa?

The verification and confirmation process may take 10-15 days. However, the entire process of obtaining a COE and submitting a visa application form may take longer.

2. Is the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) mandatory?

Yes. Getting a COE is mandatory for students planning to study in Japan. Your university/school may become the proxy for this matter, or any family residing in Japan.

3. What is the best time to visit Japan?

You may visit Japan year-round. Some of the best times to visit Japan are from March to May, during the spring season, and from September to November, when you can witness the autumn season. Additionally, from December to February is ideal for those who want to experience snow.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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