Study in Japan from India: the student visa route

This is the language-school route most Indian students use to begin studying in Japan. The details vary by school, so treat this as an overview.

Last checked: 16 October 2026

The steps

1. Choose a school. The school sponsors your application for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
2. Wait for the COE from the Immigration Services Agency. This usually takes about 1–3 months.
3. Apply for the student visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate with your COE.
4. Plan about six months from start to arrival.

The Japanese-language requirement is changing

Japan now asks for A1-level Japanese, shown by an official test such as JLPT N5 or JFT-Basic. The older "150 hours of study" certificate is no longer enough on its own from the October 2026 intake, according to current reporting; some applicants (for example university graduates) may be exempt. Rules differ by school, so confirm with the school and the immigration agency.

Source: Immigration Services Agency

Other things to know

• Language-school study is generally limited to two years.
• Part-time work is capped at 28 hours a week.
• Fees, the funds you must show and the interview format vary by school and city.

Get ready with Japanese

Starting before you go makes the first months much easier. Our N5 course covers the level asked for, and we also prepare students for JFT-Basic. Rules, dates and fees change. Treat this page as a starting point and confirm on the official website before you apply. Japanese Ninjas cannot guarantee a job, a scholarship or a visa.

Frequently asked questions

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