留学
Student visa
Language school, then a vocational college (senmon gakkō) or university. Japanese classes are free with us.
Study in Japan,
from Nepal.
Everything you need to know about the Japanese student visa: documents, timelines and real costs, explained by the team that has processed it for eighteen years.
Visa type
Student (留学)
Issued via Japan's Immigration Services
Full process
3–6 months
Depending on how well documents are prepared
Embassy visa issuance
~1 week
Up to two months if closer review is needed
Language
N5 / N4
JLPT or NAT; N4 preferred
01 — Overview
How the Japanese student visa works.
A
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Your Japanese school applies to the Immigration Services Agency on your behalf. Most of the 3–6 months is spent here, so the quality of your documents matters most at this stage.
B
Visa at the Embassy of Japan, Kathmandu
Once the COE is issued, the embassy usually grants the visa in about one week. Files that need closer scrutiny can take up to two months.
C
Arrive, study and work part-time
Students on a student visa can usually work up to 28 hours a week with permission, which helps with living costs. We'll explain the rules before you fly.
02 — Required documents
Your document checklist.
Tick items off as you collect them. Our documentation team checks every page before your file goes to the school.
Get my file reviewed03 — Intakes
Four intakes a year. Start about six months early.
Japanese language schools take students in four intakes. Files usually close 5–6 months before classes begin.
April4月
Largest intake. Apply by around October–November.
July7月
Apply by around January–February.
October10月
Popular second intake. Apply by around April–May.
January1月
Smaller intake. Apply by around July–August.
04 — Financials
What it really costs.
Estimates based on what our students report. Your counsellor will give you exact figures for your chosen school.
| Item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | ¥600,000 – ¥1,200,000 / year | Depends on the school and city |
| Living costs | ¥70,000 – ¥150,000 / month | Rent, food, transport and phone |
| First-year total | NPR 10–12 lakh | Tuition, hostel and more in cities like Tokyo; somewhat less in Nagoya or Osaka |
| Bank balance shown | NPR 15–20 lakh+ | Financial proof for your COE application |
Tokyo
東京Highest living costs, the most schools, and the most part-time jobs.
Osaka
大阪Friendly, lively and noticeably cheaper than Tokyo.
Nagoya
名古屋An industrial hub with lower rent and strong demand for workers.
05 — Pathways
More than one route to Japan.
特定技能
SSW (Specified Skilled Worker)
Work visa for skilled sectors such as caregiving and food service. 20% off language preparation.
技能実習
TITP (Technical Intern)
On-the-job technical training in Japan. 20% off language preparation.
Questions
What students ask us most.
I have a long study gap. Can I still apply?
Yes, we accept long gaps. What matters is explaining the gap honestly, with supporting documents such as work experience. We'll help you present it clearly.
When do I pay the consultancy charge?
Only after your visa is granted. School fees, exam fees and government charges are paid separately, and we'll list every one in writing before you start.
How much bank balance do I need?
Generally NPR 15–20 lakh or more, held by you or your sponsor. The exact amount depends on the school and the length of the course.
Can I work part-time in Japan?
Students with permission can usually work up to 28 hours a week during term and more during long holidays. We explain the rules in pre-departure orientation.