It is quite uncommon to come across Nigerians who want to apply for Japan Student visa in Nigeria. This makes it difficult to find information on obtaining a Japan student visa.
However, this guide will provide you with useful information if you wish to apply for Japan student visa in Nigeria. It will also help you decide if you should study in Japan, the steps to follow and where submit your application.
What is a Japan Student visa?
A Japan student visa is a Long-term visa. This visa will allow you to stay in Japan for more than 90 days or for the duration of your studies in Japan.
Why Study in Japan?
Traveling is not a decision to make in haste. This is why you may seem indecisive about studying in Japan or applying for Japan Student visa in Nigeria.
You may have already researched some of the benefits of studying in Japan. So, consider the following as emphases on why you should move out of your comfort zone:
1- Schools in Japan have a high worldwide ranking. Ten of these schools are among the top 200 schools in the world.
2- Studying in Japan will provide you with the opportunity to learn another language. This will give you an advantage even after you leave Japan.
3- If you are interested in learning about cultures, schooling in Japan will give the opportunity to learn in a culturally rich environment.
4- The cost of living in Japan is cheaper when compared to the cost of living in some European countries.
5- The country has a demand for qualified graduates. If you learn Japanese, you have a chance of remaining in Japan and finding work there.
6- If you wish to supplement the funds you have, you can get a job while you study. You will be able to work for up to 28 hours/week. The chances of you getting a job will increase if you can speak Japanese.
Nigerian Community in Japan
The Nigerian community in Japan is small. This is because of language barrier. However, there are Nigerians all over Japan. And if you wish, you can connect with them through internet forums and networking apps. A larger population of Nigerians can be found in Roppongi.
What Are Japan Student Visa Requirements for Nigerian Citizens?
When you apply for Japan Student visa in Nigeria, there are some documents you must have. These documents will be assessed to determine if you should be granted the Japan student visa or denied:
1- A valid international passport that remains valid after the expiration of your student visa. The passport should have two blank pages (at least).
2- Proof of admission from the school you are to attend in Japan.
3- A passport photograph that was not taken more than six months before your visa application.
4- A certificate of eligibility (COE) issued by the regional immigration authority in Japan.
5- Certificates showing academic accomplishments. This could include high school transcripts, diploma certificate, WAEC, NECO, and graduating transcripts.
6- A recent bank statement: This should prove your ability to pay for your living expenses for at least your first year in Japan. It is recommended that you have up to ¥2,000,000 in your bank account. If you have a constant source of income, include documents supporting the fact.
7- Receipt that shows that you have paid for your tuition or accommodation.
8- If your parent or a sponsor will be paying for your education in Japan, you will need their recent bank account statement.
9- Your parent or sponsor will also need to write a letter stating their intention to sponsor your education and other living expenses for the duration of your studies in Japan. This letter must be signed by your sponsor. You will also need to provide a copy of their passport and birth certificate.
10- A flight itinerary or proof of flight reservation. Click HERE to get your reservation for free (terms and conditions apply).
11- A visa application form that was filled as directed and completed honestly.
Note: None of the documents listed should be stapled. After gathering all the documents on this list, you will submit them in person to the Japanese embassy in Nigeria. These documents cannot be submitted by a travel agent.
How to Apply for Japan Student Visa in Nigeria: Step by Step
1- School Sends Form
Choose what school you would like to go to within Japan. After choosing the school, you should apply to study there. The school will send you a visa application form, which you will complete and send back.
2- School Forwards form to Immigration authorities
The school will send the filled form to the immigration authorities. After reviewing your application, you may be granted a Certificate of Eligibility. This certificate will enable you to apply for Japan Student visa in Nigeria.
3- Submit application in Nigeria
To apply for Japan Student visa in Nigeria, you will have to gather all required documents and take them to the embassy between 8:30am-11: 30 am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday. You do not need to make an appointment.
However, you cannot send a third party to submit your visa application.
4- Could attend interview
After submitting your documents, you may be asked for additional information.
5- Collect passport
When your visa application has been processed, you will pick up your documents, passport and pay the visa application fee. You can send someone to collect your documents and visa. Importantly, the individual should have a letter of authorization and proof of identity.
You should apply for your student visa at least two months before you intended traveling date to Japan.
FAQs on How to Apply for Japan Student visa in Nigeria
How much is Japan Student visa fees in Nigerian?
Applying for a Japan Student visa in Nigeria costs N8,100. You can pay the fee when you go and collect your visa from the Embassy in Nigeria. If you are not issued a student visa, you do not have to pay this fee.
For more on visa fees, click HERE to use the NaijaGoingAbroad visa fee calculator.
How do I get Japan Student visa application form?
When you apply for Japan Student visa in Nigeria, you will fill two visa application forms. The first form will be sent to you by the school you wish to attend. After you send the completed form back to them, it will be sent to the immigration authorities who will then issue a Certificate of Eligibility.
The second form can be found HERE. This visa application will be submitted alongside other required documents to the Embassy of Japan in Nigeria.
How long does it take to get Japan visa/What is Japan visa processing time?
After you apply for Japan Student visa in Nigeria, It takes up to 5 working days for your visa application to be processed. However, in special cases where more documents are required or the details of the submitted documents are being examined, it could take longer to process the visa application. Visas are not issued on the same day the application is submitted.
Where is Japan embassy in Nigeria – Lagos, Abuja?
The Japanese embassy in Nigeria is situated in Abuja:
No.9, Bobo Street off Gana Street, Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria. Phone number: 090-6000-9019/9099, Website: http://www.ng.emb-japan.go.jp/
For more on Embassy of Japan Nigeria, click HERE.
Conclusion
The process of getting a Japan student visa is long and somewhat confusing. So when you need an easy guide on how to apply for Japan Student visa in Nigeria, refer to this article.
If you have not taken our free visa eligibility test, we advise you take the test now in order to properly plan your application.