Visa Appplications for Students Abroad

In principle, no. Student visa applications should be submitted in your home country. However, if you are in an unavoidable situation, you must consult the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate in the country where you currently reside.

The processing time for a student visa is approximately 6 to 8 weeks.

Lakeland University Japan applies for a digital COE on your behalf. You will not receive a physical copy; instead, an official email from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan will be forwarded to you. Please save this email in a secure location (e.g., mark it as a favorite) and also print a copy for backup purposes.

The application process, managed by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, LUJ has no control or influence over your application. Once the COE has been approved, the agency will contact LUJ for final confirmation. Until then, we are unable to provide updates on your application status.

LUJ can only sponsor student visas. If you wish to invite family members, spouses, or friends, you must apply for a Certificate of Eligibility directly through the Immigration Services Agency of Japan for each individual.\

LUJ cannot influence the outcome or timing of your visa issuance. We strongly advise you to apply for your visa as soon as your travel plans have been finalized.

We recommend arriving in Japan 1 to 2 weeks prior to orientation. Your visa application should be submitted well in advance. When booking your flight, we advise selecting a ticket that allows for date changes with minimal or no penalties.

You may begin the renewal process up to three months prior to the expiration of your current visa.

Yes. Under the current immigration policy, students may temporarily leave and re-enter Japan without filing a re-entry permit. However, you must return before the semester begins, as LUJ sponsors your visa. Failure to return on time may jeopardize your visa status. If unexpected issues prevent your return, please contact the Student Affairs Office immediately.

Your COE is valid for three months from the date of issue. If your new travel date falls within this period, no additional documentation is required. If you plan to arrive after the three-month window, additional paperwork will be necessary. Please inform the Student Affairs Office as soon as your plans change.