Preparing to study at a Japanese university in 2026 requires careful planning, from securing your visa to finding a place to live. To transition smoothly, you must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), apply for a Student visa in your home country, and register your address shortly after landing. This guide outlines the exact timeline and steps you need to follow to start your academic journey in Japan without any delays.
What is the Student Visa and how long does it last?
If you plan to study at a Japanese university, junior college, specialized training college, or language school, you must obtain a Student status of residence. According to the official guidelines on Study in Japan, this status is designated specifically for academic activities. The Minister of Justice determines the exact period of stay for each individual applicant, which can be up to a maximum duration of 4 years and 3 months. Please note that you must always confirm your specific eligibility and requirements with official government sources, as individual situations vary.
How do I get a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
Before you can apply for your visa, you need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This document is processed at a regional immigration services bureau within Japan. Typically, the Japanese university or school accepting you will act as your proxy to submit this application. You or your financial sponsor must provide evidence showing the ability to pay all expenses during your stay. This proof usually includes a savings balance certificate, an income certificate covering the past year, and documents identifying the sources of your funds.
What documents do I need for the visa application?
Once your school sends you the issued COE, you can apply for your visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country or region of residence. You will need to submit several key documents:
- Your valid passport
- A completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photographs
- The Certificate of Eligibility (a copy is accepted)
- Any other specific documents requested by your local embassy.
Be sure to check the exact requirements with your local consulate before submitting your application.
What happens when I arrive at the airport in Japan?
When you land in Japan, you must present your passport, your visa, and your COE (copy accepted) to the immigration officers. To make the arrival process smoother, you can use the Visit Japan Web service online for quarantine, immigration, and customs declarations. If you enter through major airports—specifically Narita, Haneda, Chubu, Kansai, New Chitose, Kobe, Hiroshima, or Fukuoka—you will receive a Landing Permission stamp in your passport and be issued your physical Residence Card (zairyu card) immediately. If you arrive at a different airport, your passport will be stamped indicating that the card will be issued at a later date. You must carry this Residence Card with you at all times.
What must I do within 14 days of finding an address?
Once you have secured a place to live, you must register your address. Take your Residence Card (or your passport stamped for later issuance) to the local municipal office that administers your new neighborhood. This registration must be completed within 14 days of determining where you will live. Registering your address is a mandatory step for all foreign residents staying in Japan for more than three months.
What is the My Number system?
After you complete your resident registration, you will receive a notification card in the mail containing a 12-digit social security and tax number known as My Number. This is completely different from the number on your Residence Card. You can apply for a physical My Number Card online or by mail, which serves as official identification. You will need this number for various official procedures, such as opening bank accounts, receiving or sending international money transfers, or getting a part-time job.
Finding a place to stay
Securing accommodation is a crucial step that you should arrange after your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) or student visa is officially issued, but before you board your flight to Japan. Having a confirmed address is essential because you must register your residence within 14 days of moving in. Many newcomers choose to stay in a furnished monthly apartment first to give themselves a comfortable starting point. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo; most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing). The monthly price includes electricity, gas, water and Wi-Fi. Additionally, there is no guarantor, no key money and no agency fee; booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card. This allows you to settle in smoothly without the stress of long-term contracts immediately upon arrival.
FAQ
How long can an international student stay in Japan on a Student visa?
The specific period of stay is determined individually by the Minister of Justice, up to a maximum limit of 4 years and 3 months.
Where do I register my address after arriving in Japan?
You must visit the municipal office administering your new address within 14 days of determining where you will live to complete your resident registration.
What is the difference between a Residence Card and a My Number?
A Residence Card is your official ID as a foreign resident and must be carried at all times. The My Number is a separate 12-digit social security and tax number sent to you after resident registration, used for tax, part-time jobs, and bank transfers.
Sources
- Study in Japan(JASSO)「Immigration and Students Visas｜Study in Japan Official Website」(checked 2026-10-08)
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.