After receiving university acceptance in Japan for 2026, international students must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through their educational institution, submit a visa application to a Japanese embassy or consulate, and complete resident registration upon arrival. This guide outlines every immigration requirement, necessary document, and administrative task required for a smooth transition. Official guidelines can be verified directly at the Study in Japan official website.
What status of residence do international students receive in Japan?
Foreign nationals admitted to study at Japanese universities, junior colleges, colleges of technology, specialized training colleges, or Japanese language schools enter Japan under the "Student" status of residence. The Minister of Justice assigns an official period of stay tailored to each individual applicant, which can extend up to a maximum duration of 4 years and 3 months.
How do you obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
Before applying for a student visa, you must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from a regional immigration services bureau inside Japan. In most cases, the accepting university or educational school acts as your proxy and submits this application on your behalf. You should contact your school directly to confirm their exact document submission timeline.
What financial proof is required for the COE and visa?
Immigration authorities require evidence that you or your financial sponsor can cover all tuition and living costs during your period of study in Japan. Required financial verification documents typically include:
- A savings balance certificate belonging to the student or their designated financial guarantor.
- An official income certificate covering the past year.
- Documents detailing and identifying the specific sources of funds.
How do you apply for a student visa at an embassy or consulate?
Once the regional immigration bureau issues the COE, you can apply for your student visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate located in your home country or region of residence. You must submit the following core items:
- Valid passport
- Completed visa application form
- Official photographs
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE), where a copy is acceptable
- Additional documents requested by your local Japanese diplomatic mission
What entry procedures occur at Japanese airports?
When traveling to Japan, you must carry your passport, your issued visa, and your COE (a copy is accepted). Travelers can use the online service Visit Japan Web to handle quarantine, immigration, and customs declarations prior to landing.
How is the Residence Card (Zairyu Card) issued?
Foreign nationals residing in Japan for more than three months receive a Residence Card, which must be carried at all times.
- Major Airports: If you enter through New Chitose, Narita, Haneda, Chubu, Kansai, Kobe, Hiroshima, or Fukuoka Airport, immigration officers issue your Residence Card directly alongside a Landing Permission stamp in your passport.
- Other Airports: If you land at a different airport, your passport will receive a Landing Permission stamp stating that the Residence Card will be issued at a later date.
What local municipal procedures must be completed after arrival?
Within 14 days of settling into your local address, you must visit the municipal office administering your residential area to complete resident registration. If your Residence Card was deferred at the airport, bring your stamped passport to the municipal office to complete this process.
Sometime after resident registration, you will receive a notification card containing your 12-digit Individual Number (commonly called "My Number"). This tax and social security number is distinct from the 12-digit number listed on your Residence Card. You can apply for a physical My Number Card online or by mail, which serves as official identification and is required when opening bank accounts, receiving overseas wire transfers, or starting part-time jobs.
What if you enter Japan for entrance examinations first?
If you must travel to Japan to sit for an entrance examination before acceptance, you must obtain a Temporary Visitor visa by showing your exam voucher at a Japanese embassy or consulate. This status allows stays of 15, 30, or 90 days. Citizens of countries under Visa Exemption Arrangements do not need a visa for exams, but standard regulations require them to return home after passing the test to apply for their Student visa.
Finding a place to stay
Securing accommodation should be planned alongside your COE processing and visa application so that your housing is arranged before arriving in Japan. Many international students choose to stay in a furnished monthly apartment when first arriving in Tokyo while searching for long-term housing or adjusting to campus life. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo. Booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card, with no guarantor, key money, or agency fee. Availability is shown up to about 12 months ahead, and a booking is confirmed when the card payment goes through.
FAQ
What is the maximum initial period of stay granted for a Student status of residence?
The Minister of Justice sets the specific duration of stay for each applicant up to a maximum limit of 4 years and 3 months.
Within how many days must new residents register their address in Japan?
You must register your address at the local municipal office administering your residential area within 14 days of determining where you will live.
Is the 12-digit My Number the same as the Residence Card number?
No, the 12-digit My Number is a separate tax and social security number distinct from the 12-digit number printed on your Residence Card.
Sources
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「Immigration and Students Visas｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-13)
This article was created by OHAYO Stay based on the sources above (edited, reorganized and translated). It is not an official publication.
Rules and dates can change. Always confirm with the official source before you apply.