Hokkaido Bunkyo University
Foreign nationals who wish to enter Japan must obtain a visa before arrival. Once granted entry, their residence status is determined based on their intended activities, role, and purpose in Japan.
For those pursuing education at universities, junior colleges, technical colleges, specialized training institutions, or Japanese language schools, the designated residence status is "Student." The length of stay is determined individually by the Minister of Justice, with a maximum period of up to 4 years and 3 months.
International students planning to study in Japan must first obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This application can be submitted by the student or a designated representative, such as a family member or a staff member from the accepting institution, at a regional immigration office in Japan.In most cases, the educational institution will act as the student's proxy for the application process. For details on necessary documents, students should directly consult their school.
Submit application forms for the school you’re applying for in Japan and take any necessary tests. If you are required to take any tests in person,
you must come to Japan.
Your desired educational institution will send you your approval letter.
Required for visa application process. Please keep your letter in a safe place.
Applicant or educational institution submits application for COE to the Regional Immigration Bureau.
Issues COE and sends it to a representative such as your desired educational institution.
After you receive your COE, prepare necessary visa forms and apply for your visa at a Japanese embassy in your home country.
You will need your passport, visa, and COE when you enter Japan. You may also be asked to show your school approval letter as well.
When you enter Japan through designated airports, you will receive a residence card if your stay will exceed 3 months.
Proof of Financial Capability for Studying in JapanWhen applying for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) or a visa, applicants may need to provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover their expenses during their stay in Japan.Required Documents:
■ Bank balance certificate
■ Income statement from recent years
■ Taxation certificate of the applicant or their financial sponsor
Additional documents may be requested depending on individual circumstances.
After receiving the Certificate of Eligibility (COE), applicants can submit their visa application at the Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country.Required Documents:
■ Valid passport
■ Completed visa application form
■ Recent photographs
■ Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
■ Additional documents as required
Applicants should check with their local Japanese embassy or consulate for any specific requirements or additional documents needed.
To enter Japan, travelers must present the following documents:Required Documents:
■ Valid passport
■ Visa issued by the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country
■ Certificate of Eligibility (COE) (if applicable)
■ Additional documents as required
Streamlined Arrival with Visit Japan Web
For a smoother entry process, travelers can use Visit Japan Web, an online service that facilitates Quarantine, Immigration, and Customs procedures at the airport. For more details, please refer to the official website.
https://services.digital.go.jp/en/visit-japan-web/
Foreign nationals staying in Japan for more than three months will receive a residence card (zairyu card) upon arrival. This card serves as an official form of identification and must be carried at all times while in Japan.
■ If Entering Japan Through Designated Airports:
Foreign nationals arriving at New Chitose, Narita, Haneda, Chubu Centrair, Kansai, Hiroshima, or Fukuoka Airport will receive a Landing Permission stamp in their passport and be issued a residence card during the immigration process.
■ Once you decide on your place of residence in Japan, you must bring your residence card to the local municipal office within 14 days to complete your resident registration.
■ If Entering Japan Through Other Airports:
For those arriving at airports not listed above, a Landing Permission stamp will be placed in the passport, along with a seal indicating that a residence card will be issued later.
■ After deciding on your place of residence, visit the municipal office within 14 days with your passport to complete your resident registration. Your residence card will be mailed to your registered address at a later date.
In Japan, all residents are assigned a 12-digit Social Security and Tax Number, commonly known as "My Number" (個人番号, Kojin Bangō). This number is distinct from the 12-digit number on your residence card.
Receiving Your My NumberAfter completing resident registration at your local municipal office, you will receive a notification card with your My Number. If you apply, you can also obtain a My Number Card, which serves as official identification. Be sure to store this card safely, as it is required for various administrative procedures.
Uses of My NumberYour My Number may be required in situations such as:
■ Completing official procedures at the municipal office
■ Starting a part-time job
■ Conducting overseas money transfers at a bank
You can apply for a My Number Card via mail or online using a smartphone or computer. The card can be used as proof of your My Number and as an official form of ID.
Foreign nationals traveling to Japan to take an entrance exam must obtain a Temporary Visitor visa. This can be applied for at the Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country by presenting the exam voucher from the school they intend to enroll in.
■ With a Temporary Visitor visa, the permitted stay duration can be 15, 30, or 90 days, depending on the applicant’s nationality and circumstances.
■ Visa Exemption
Applicants from countries under Japan’s Visa Exemption Arrangements do not need to apply for a visa to take an entrance exam.
■ Important Note:
If you are from a visa-exempt country, you are generally required to return to your home country after passing the exam in order to apply for a Student residence status before beginning your studies in Japan.