Q&A: All You Need to Know About the Japanese Student Visa

Japan's high-quality education system has made it an attractive destination for international students. To realize your dream of studying in Japan, obtaining a Japanese student visa is the first and most crucial step. In this article, HeyJapan answers the most frequently asked questions about the Japanese student visa. 

Where to Apply for a Japanese Student Visa?

You can apply for a Japanese student visa at the Japanese consulate in Vietnam. There are two consulate locations: one in Hanoi and one in Ho Chi Minh City.

Apply for a Japanese study visa at the Japanese Consulate 

Japanese Consulate in Hanoi:

• Address: 27 Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Phone: 024-3846-3000
• Website: http://www.vn.emb-japan.go.jp/ 

Japanese Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Address: 261 Dien Bien Phu, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
• Phone: 028-39333-510
• Website: http://www.vn.emb-japan.go.jp/ 

Please note that you must apply for the visa before entering Japan.

How Long is the Japanese Student Visa Valid?

The validity of a Japanese student visa depends on the duration of your study program. There are two main types of visas for students:

Short-term Visa: This visa is for short-term courses, usually lasting from 3 months to 1 year. It is suitable for language courses or short-term specialized programs.

Long-term Visa: This visa is for long-term programs such as undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees. The validity of a long-term visa generally matches the duration of your course (2-4 years) and can be extended if you meet the necessary conditions. Note that you need to apply for a new visa before starting a new course. For extensions, contact the Japanese consulate for detailed information.

Is It Difficult to Apply for a Japanese Student Visa?

While applying for a Japanese student visa may not be easy, it is not overly difficult if you prepare and submit the necessary documents. To increase your chances of success, keep the following points in mind:

• Complete Documentation: Prepare all required documents, such as your passport, visa application form, academic certificates, financial proof, etc. If you have a sponsor, prepare their documents as required by the consulate.
• Clear Purpose of Entry: Clearly state your study objectives and plans in your visa application to assure the consulate of your legitimate purpose for entering Japan.
• Financial Proof: Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover your living and study expenses in Japan, along with a detailed spending plan for your stay.

Is it difficult to apply for a Japanese study visa?

With thorough preparation and accurate documentation, your chances of obtaining a Japanese student visa will significantly improve.

Can Japanese Student Visas Be Sponsored?

Students can sponsor family members to come to Japan, provided they meet certain conditions and can demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their dependents. Additionally, students must maintain good relationships and abide by laws and ethics during their stay in Japan. Students who meet these criteria can sponsor their relatives to stay in Japan for specific periods.

For more details on student sponsorship regulations, click here.

Is a Japanese student visa guaranteed? 

How Long Does It Take to Get a Japanese Student Visa?

The visa application process typically takes about 8 days (excluding weekends and holidays), depending on the specific case. However, it's advisable to apply well in advance to allow time for any potential issues to be resolved.

Please note that the Japanese student visa is only issued to those who have been accepted into a Japanese school and have a legitimate purpose for entering Japan. Ensure you have completed all enrollment procedures before applying for the visa.

Can Japanese Student Visa Holders Work?

Yes, Japanese student visa holders are allowed to work part-time. To do so, you must obtain a work permit from the consulate and submit the necessary documents proving that the job will not interfere with your studies.

Can I get a part-time job on a Japanese student visa?

Remember that you are limited to working no more than 28 hours per week and can only take up jobs like domestic help, sales, or restaurant services. Violating these regulations can lead to deportation.

How Much Does a Japanese Student Visa Cost?

The cost of a Japanese student visa includes the following fees:

• Visa Visa application fee:

Single-entry visa: 520,000 VND

Multiple-entry visa: 1,030,000 VND

Transit visa: 120,000 VND

• Money transfer fee (if paying by bank transfer): 10,000 VND
• Visa printing fee: 2,000 VND
• If you have a sponsor, additional costs for financial verification and study plan preparation may apply.

Cost of making a Japanese study visa

For detailed information on visa fees, please refer to the Japanese consulate's website.

When Should You Apply for a Japanese Student Visa?

Apply for your student visa early to allow enough time for processing and resolving any issues. Typically, you will receive your visa within 7-10 days, but it’s best to apply at least two months before your departure.

How long should a study abroad visa be before taking off?

For those without a Certificate of Eligibility, the process may take 2-3 months. If you have a sponsor, it might take longer due to the consulate's review and consideration of the sponsor's documents. Avoid applying too early or too late to ensure timely processing.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for a Japanese Student Visa?

Currently, the Japanese consulate does not have a minimum age requirement for student visas. However, you must provide all necessary documents and prove your ability to study and live independently in Japan. Younger students may need sponsorship from parents or guardians.

For adult applicants, demonstrate your capability to support yourself and complete your studies independently. Thorough preparation of your documents will enhance your chances of obtaining a student visa.

Conclusion

Preparing complete and accurate documentation is crucial for a successful Japanese student visa application. Understanding the application process, requirements, and processing times will help you plan effectively.

We hope this information helps you better understand the Japanese student visa application process and prepares you for your study journey. HeyJapan wishes you luck and success in obtaining your student visa and embarking on your educational adventure in Japan!