Your Application Journey to Kyoto
Understanding the CoE for your Student Visa
Required Documents for the Japan Student Visa Application
Student Visa Application Timeline
What is the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
The COE is a document issued by the Japanese Immigration Services Agency. It certifies that you have been approved for a long-term stay in Japan. It is the single most important document, as it is required to obtain your student visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Our Role in the Process
Nihongo Center acts as your official sponsor in Japan. Once you provide us with all the necessary documents, we handle the submission of your COE application directly to the immigration authorities. We will follow up on the process for you and send you the original COE by express mail as soon as it is issued.
Required Documents for Your COE Application
To prepare your application, you will need to gather the following documents. Our team is available in English to answer any questions you may have. Please note that additional documents may be requested depending on your nationality and personal situation. For a more complete guide, you can refer to this.
Applicant’s Documents
Financial Sponsor’s Documents
April 2026 Intake Deadline
Application Period
(July 1st – October 17th, 2025)
This is the window to submit your initial application and all required documents to our school. The deadline is approaching, so we recommend applying as early as possible to ensure a smooth process.
Intermediate Step: Screening Fee Payment
Once your documents are approved, and ready to be sent to the immigration office, we will send you an invoice for the screening fee. This payment is the last step to complete your application and must be done before the application deadline.
School Submits Documents to Immigration (18th November 2025)
Once we have checked and approved your documents, our school will officially submit your visa application to the immigration authorities in Japan on your behalf.
Intermediate Step: Accommodation
About 2 months prior to your arrival, we will send you a list of our partners so you can choose a place to live during your stay. The whole process will be easier if you contact them directly. They always have an English Speaking staff.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Results
(27th February 2026)
The immigration office will issue the Certificate of Eligibility (COE), the official document needed to obtain your student visa. After confirmation of your payment, we will send you everything you need to get the student visa at the Japanese embassy in your country.
Intermediate Step: School Fees Payment
Once your COE is approved, we will send you an invoice for tuition and other initial fees. Full payment is required before we can send you the original copy of your COE by express mail.
Final Visa Application & Arrival in Japan
(March – Early April 2026)
With your COE, you will make the final visa application at the Japanese embassy in your country. Once approved, you can book your flight and prepare for your arrival in Kyoto to start your studies!
Ready to Start Your Application?
Our international admissions team is ready to help you with any questions you may have about the required documents or the process. Your journey to studying in Japan starts today.
