What is the "Student" Residence Status?

For foreign nationals wishing to study in Japan, the “Student” residence status is essential. Obtaining this status allows individuals to legally study at educational institutions in Japan. This article provides a detailed explanation of the “Student” residence status, including its overview, application requirements, necessary documents, application procedures, renewal process, and important considerations.

What is the “Student” Residence Status?

The “Student” residence status is a qualification required to study at educational institutions in Japan, such as universities and vocational schools. Obtaining this status allows individuals to study legally in Japan.

Educational Institutions Eligible for the “Student” Residence Status

To apply for the “Student” residence status, you must be enrolled or accepted at one of the following educational institutions in Japan.

Universities: Institutions offering undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Junior Colleges: Higher education institutions offering two- or three-year programs.
Technical Colleges: Five-year institutions providing technical education.
High Schools: Institutions offering the upper secondary education curriculum.
Junior High Schools: Institutions offering the lower secondary education curriculum.
Elementary Schools: Institutions providing primary education.
Special Needs Schools: Schools providing education for children with disabilities.
Vocational Schools: Institutions offering specialized knowledge and technical training.
Miscellaneous Schools: Educational institutions providing specialized education outside the categories above.

Important Points

Eligible educational institutions must be formally established under Japanese law.
For Japanese language schools or miscellaneous schools, only institutions designated by the Minister of Justice are eligible for the “Student” residence status.
Depending on the educational institution, specific conditions such as attendance rates and academic performance may be required during the enrollment period.

Period of Stay

The period of stay for the “Student” residence status can be one of the following: 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 1 year and 3 months, 2 years, 2 years and 3 months, 3 years, 3 years and 3 months, 4 years, or 4 years and 3 months.
The duration is determined based on the length of the educational program and the student’s academic progress.
If you wish to continue studying beyond the granted period, you must apply for a renewal of your residence status.

Requirements for Applying for the “Student” Residence Status

To apply for the “Student” residence status in Japan, you must meet the following requirements.

1. Admission to an Educational Institution

You must have official admission approval from a Japanese educational institution.

2. Proof of Financial Support

You need to demonstrate your ability to cover tuition fees and living expenses. This typically requires documents such as a bank balance certificate or proof of scholarship funding.

3. Educational Requirements

When receiving education as a non-degree student or research student.
- You must enroll in an eligible educational institution, pass the entrance examination, and obtain admission approval.
- You are required to attend lectures for at least 10 hours per week.
When receiving education at a high school.
- At the time of enrollment, you must be under 20 years old.
- You must have completed at least one year of Japanese language education or education conducted in Japanese.
- However, these requirements do not apply if you are studying in Japan under a student exchange program or international exchange program conducted by the Japanese government, local governments, or educational corporations.
- Separate requirements are also established for those receiving education at middle schools, elementary schools, or the middle/elementary divisions of special support schools.
When receiving education at a specialized training college or a miscellaneous school .
- You must meet one of the following conditions.
  - Have completed at least six months of Japanese language education at a Japanese language institution designated by the Minister of Justice.
  - Demonstrate sufficient Japanese language proficiency for education through exams or other means.
  - Have completed at least one year of education at a school defined under the School Education Act (excluding kindergartens).
- The educational institution you plan to enroll in must have full-time staff responsible for providing guidance and support to international students in their daily lives.

Required Documents for the “Student” Residence Status

The following documents are necessary for the application.

Application form for the Certificate of Eligibility for Residence Status
Photograph (specified size)
Return envelope (self-addressed and stamped)
Copy of passport
Admission letter from the educational institution
Proof of financial support (e.g., bank balance certificate, scholarship award letter)
Study plan
Other required documents

The required documents may vary depending on the school you are enrolling in and your Japanese language proficiency.

For detailed information on the necessary documents, please refer to the official website of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

Immigration Services Agency – “Student” Residence Status

If you are unsure about the required documents for your application, please feel free to contact us through this inquiry link for assistance.

Application Procedure for the “Student” Residence Status

Take the Entrance Examination
Apply for and take the entrance examination for your desired school. A short-term stay visa can be used for this purpose if necessary.
Obtain Admission Approval
Secure admission approval from the school.
Apply for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
While the application can be submitted by the applicant, it must be done in Japan. Therefore, the educational institution usually submits the application to the Immigration Services Agency on your behalf.
Receive the Certificate of Eligibility
Once the application is approved, the Certificate of Eligibility will be issued.
Apply for a Visa
After receiving the Certificate of Eligibility, take it to a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for a visa.
Enter Japan
Upon visa issuance, travel to Japan and receive your Residence Card upon arrival.

How to Renew Your Period of Stay

You must apply for a renewal at the Immigration Services Agency between three months before your period of stay expires and the day before the expiration date. The following documents are required for the renewal application.

Application form for Extension of Period of Stay
Photograph
Certificate of Enrollment
Passport
Residence Card
Student ID
Academic Transcript
Proof of Financial Support (e.g., bank balance certificate, scholarship award letter)

If your academic performance is poor or you have changed schools, additional documents may be required. Please review the necessary documents listed below.

Important Points Regarding the “Student” Residence Status

Part-Time Work Restrictions
If you obtain permission for activities outside your residence status, you can work part-time for up to 28 hours per week. However, employment in businesses related to the adult entertainment industry is strictly prohibited.
Continuation of Studies
If your academic performance or attendance rate is poor, your application for residence status renewal may be denied.
Compliance with the Period of Stay
Staying beyond your permitted period of stay is considered illegal and may result in deportation.

Summary

The “Student” residence status is an essential qualification for studying in Japan. By carefully reviewing the application requirements and necessary documents, and completing the procedures correctly, you can smoothly begin your educational journey in Japan.

For the latest information and details, please refer to the official website of the Immigration Services Agency. If you have any concerns, it is recommended to consult with your prospective school or a professional organization.