Japan Student Visa FAQs for UAE Residents
Answers to the questions applicants ask most.
1. What is the Japan student visa?
The student visa lets foreign nationals study full-time at accredited Japanese institutions. It is based on a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) that your school applies for, after which you apply for the visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate.
2. Can I apply from Dubai?
Yes. Once your school issues the COE, UAE residents apply at the Japanese mission or its authorised visa centre. You submit the original COE, passport, form, photo and fee.
3. What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
A COE is a document issued by Japan's immigration authority confirming that you meet the requirements for a status. Your school applies for it, and it is needed for your visa. A COE does not by itself guarantee the visa.
4. How long does the COE take?
Usually one to three months, and sometimes longer during peak intakes. Schools submit applications well ahead of the start date, so plan around the intake calendar.
5. How much money do I need to show?
Schools typically look for around ¥2.0–¥2.5 million for a one-year programme, and about ¥1.5 million for six months. The exact amount depends on the school and city, so ask the school.
6. How much does the visa cost?
There is no government fee for the COE, and a single-entry visa fee of about ¥3,000 has been reported. Visa fees were revised in 2026, so confirm the amount at the Japanese mission.
7. Do I need to speak Japanese?
Not for every programme. Universities may offer English-taught courses, while language schools teach Japanese from the beginning. From October 2026, language-school entrants must show A1-level Japanese, such as JLPT N5 or a school assessment.
8. Can I work while studying in Japan?
Yes, but only after you obtain permission to engage in activity other than that permitted by your status. With permission, you can work up to 28 hours per week in term, and up to 40 hours per week in long vacations.
9. Why do schools monitor work hours?
Exceeding the limit is treated as illegal work and can affect your status. Language schools check students' hours regularly, so keep records and stay within the limit across all jobs.
10. What is the cost of studying in Japan?
Language school tuition is roughly ¥600,000–¥800,000 per year and university tuition ¥500,000–¥1,500,000, plus living costs and insurance. Scholarships can help, so ask your school.
11. Can I stay after I graduate?
Graduates can apply for a Designated Activities status to look for work, for up to a year in total, usually granted in six-month periods. If they find a qualifying job, they can change to a work status.
12. Can my family join me?
Dependants can apply for a dependant status, but they need separate permission to work and must meet financial requirements.
13. How do I extend my student visa?
You apply for an extension of your period of stay at an immigration office before it expires, with your school's documents. Start early and keep your attendance record in good order.
14. What if my visa is refused?
You may receive limited reasons, and reapplying with the same documents rarely helps. Review the file with your school and an advisor before you try again.
15. Can Visatrix Global guarantee my student visa?
No. Visatrix Global is an independent advisory firm. Only the relevant Japanese authority decides whether a visa or pass is granted, and no consultant can guarantee approval or processing times. We help you shortlist courses and prepare an accurate, well-organised application.