Student - Required Documents
The Student visa status is required for receiving education at universities, colleges of technology, vocational schools, Japanese language institutions, and other educational institutions in Japan.
| Applicable Activities | Receiving education at universities, colleges of technology, high schools, junior high schools, elementary schools, specialized training colleges, miscellaneous schools, etc. in Japan |
|---|---|
| Period of Stay | A period individually designated by the Minister of Justice (not exceeding 4 years and 3 months) |
Important Notes Before Applying
- For questions about application forms and required documents, please contact the Immigration Information Center. (TEL: 0570-013904)
- All certificates issued in Japan must be submitted within 3 months of the date of issue.
- Documents written in foreign languages must be accompanied by a Japanese translation.
- Submitted documents will not be returned in principle.
- Additional documents not listed on this page may be requested during the screening process.
Application for Certificate of Eligibility (New)
This application is for those who wish to enter Japan with Student status for the first time.
Common Required Documents
- Application for Certificate of Eligibility - 1 copy (Go to application form)
- Photograph - 1
- 4cm (H) x 3cm (W)
- Taken within 6 months before application, front-facing
- Without hat, plain background, clear
- Return envelope - 1
- Standard envelope with recipient address and necessary postage (registered mail) attached
Other Required Documents
Required documents vary depending on the type of educational institution and whether it is a certified school.
Document List (PDF):
| Institution Type | Certified School (Class I/II) | Non-Certified School |
|---|---|---|
| University, Graduate School, College of Technology | PDF Download | PDF Download |
| Specialized Training College, Miscellaneous School | Class I / Class II | PDF Download |
| Japanese Language Institution | Class I / Class II | PDF Download |
| High School, Junior High School, Elementary School | PDF Download | - |
Related Forms:
- Notes on Application (PDF)
- Appendix (Required Documents by Country) (PDF)
- Statement of Financial Support (PDF)
- Various Confirmation Forms (Excel)
Application for Change of Status of Residence
This application is for those already residing in Japan with a different visa status who wish to change to Student status.
Common Required Documents
- Application for Change of Status of Residence - 1 copy (Go to application form)
- Photograph - 1 (same specifications as new application)
- Not required for those under 16 years old
- Passport and Residence Card - For presentation
Other Required Documents
Required documents vary depending on the type of educational institution and whether it is a certified school. Please refer to the PDFs from the new application section.
Application for Extension of Period of Stay
This application is for those already residing in Japan with Student status who wish to continue their studies.
Common Required Documents
- Application for Extension of Period of Stay - 1 copy (Go to application form)
- Photograph - 1 (same specifications as new application)
- Not required for those under 16 years old
- Passport and Residence Card - For presentation
Other Required Documents
Required documents vary depending on the type of educational institution.
Japanese Language Requirements
Required Japanese language proficiency levels vary depending on the educational institution.
| Educational Institution | Japanese Language Requirement |
|---|---|
| University, Graduate School, College of Technology | JLPT N2 (Level 2) equivalent or higher (600+ instruction hours) |
| Specialized Training College, Miscellaneous School | 1 year or more education at a certified Japanese language institution or JLPT N2 equivalent |
| Japanese Language Institution | CEFR A1 equivalent or higher (150+ instruction hours) |
Recognized Japanese Language Tests:
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N5 or higher
- BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test 300 points or higher
- J.TEST Practical Japanese Proficiency Test F-Level or higher
- Japanese NAT-TEST Level 5 or higher
- Other certified tests
Financial Support Documents
Adequate financial planning is necessary for stable study life in Japan.
- Bank Balance Certificate: Must be from a bank account authorized by the national government/central bank.
- Evidence of Fund Formation: Submit deposit/withdrawal statements, bankbook copies, annual income certificates, etc.
- Living Expense Reference: Refer to JASSO’s “Survey of Living Expenses of International Students with Private Funding.”
Note: The Student visa status generally prohibits income-generating activities, and covering all tuition and living expenses through part-time work is not recognized.
Reference Links
Need to apply for or change your status of residence in Japan?
Easily create your Japanese status of residence application.