Student
People enrolled at a Japanese university, college, vocational school or language school.
The Student is a Japanese study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free) and processing time (~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Student is for
People enrolled at a Japanese university, college, vocational school or language school.
No direct PR; graduates typically switch to a work status, which then counts toward PR.
Student - eligibility criteria
- Acceptance at an approved Japanese educational institution
- Funds to cover tuition and living costs
- Genuine intention to study
- School issues the Certificate of Eligibility
- Academic background suited to the course
Student cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Student (Japan) is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed by the school in Japan; visa at a consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 4 years 3 months, matched to the course (renewable) |
| Work rights | Part-time up to 28 hours/week with permission |
| Study rights | Full-time enrolment at the sponsoring institution |
| Government fee | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility |
| Route to PR | No direct PR; graduates typically switch to a work status, which then counts toward PR. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct PR; graduates typically switch to a work status, which then counts toward PR.
Many applicants also compare Engineer / Humanities · Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services, Cultural Activities · Cultural Activities, Working Holiday · Designated Activities (Working Holiday). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Japanese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Student pitfalls we fix
Student - frequently asked questions
How much does the Student cost?
The Student government fee is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying.
How long does the Student take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Student lead to permanent residence?
No direct PR; graduates typically switch to a work status, which then counts toward PR.
Can I work on the Student?
Work rights: Part-time up to 28 hours/week with permission.
Who can apply for the Student?
People enrolled at a Japanese university, college, vocational school or language school.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Japan government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan - official Japan immigration authority