Japan Visa & Immigration

Planning to move to Japan for study, work, or family? This guide explains everything you need to know about Japanese visa types, application steps, required documents, renewals, and common mistakes — all simplified for Nepali citizens.

नेपाली गाइड को लागी यति क्लिक गर्नु होस

Types of Visa for Nepali 🇳🇵

Student Visa

For language school, university and colleges, or vocational education
Learn more

Work visa

for skilled professionals in various industries
Learn more

Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa

semi-skilled foreign workers to work in Japan legally
Learn more

Dependent Visa

This visa is for spouses and children of a student or work visa holder in Japan
Learn more

Document Checklist

In order to apply for Visa, there are several documents that are required depending on what kind of visa you want to apply. 

You can find the detailed checklist for these documents here.

 

Japan Visa Application Process for Nepali Applicants

 

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Identify the purpose of your visit to select the appropriate visa category:

  • Short-Term Stay (up to 90 days):

    • Tourism

    • Visiting relatives or friends

    • Business meetings or conferences

  • Long-Term Stay:

    • Work

    • Study

    • Dependent (joining a family member)

    • Designated activities (e.g., cultural exchange)

Note: Each visa type has specific requirements and documentation.

Refer to Visa Types

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

A. Documents Provided by the Applicant

  • Valid Passport: Must have at least two blank pages and be valid for the duration of your stay.

  • Visa Application Form: Completed and signed. Download Form

  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (45mm x 35mm) taken within the last six months.

  • Flight Itinerary: Proof of round-trip flight bookings.

  • Accommodation Details: Hotel reservations or invitation letter from a host in Japan.

  • Financial Proof: Bank statements, income tax returns, or other documents demonstrating financial stability.

  • Employment/Student Status Proof:

    • For employees: Employment certificate and leave approval.

    • For students: Enrollment certificate and No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the institution.

  • Additional Documents: Depending on the visa type, additional documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or letters of guarantee may be required.

B. Documents Provided by the Inviting Person/Organization in Japan (if applicable)

  • Invitation Letter: Stating the purpose and details of the visit.

  • Letter of Guarantee: If the inviter is sponsoring the trip financially.

  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Required for long-term stays. Obtained by the sponsor in Japan from the Immigration Services Agency.

Note: All documents must be issued within three months prior to the application date.

 

📅 Step 3: Submit Your Application

  • Where to Apply: Submit your application to the Embassy of Japan in Nepal or through an accredited agency.

  • Appointment: Schedule an appointment if required.

  • Submission: Provide all necessary documents in the prescribed order.

Note: Applications cannot be submitted within Japan.

 

💳 Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

  • Payment Method: Visa fees are typically paid in cash in the local currency at the time of application.

  • Fee Amount: Varies depending on the visa type and duration. Confirm the exact fee with the embassy or application center.

 

⏳ Step 5: Wait for Processing

  • Processing Time: Standard processing takes approximately five working days from the day after submission.

  • Additional Time: Some applications may require additional processing time if further documents or interviews are needed.

Note: Processing times may vary based on individual circumstances.

 

Step 6: Collect Your Passport

  • Notification: You will be informed when your passport is ready for collection.

  • Result: Collect your passport in person or through the method specified during application.

Note: A visa does not guarantee entry into Japan; final admission is determined by immigration officers at the port of entry.

 

🔗 Useful Resources

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Japan Visa Application  

Applying for a Japan visa can be smooth if you follow the process carefully. However, many applicants face delays or rejections due to simple, avoidable errors. Here are the most common mistakes you should watch out for. . . Read more

FAQs

The COE is an official document issued by the Japanese Immigration Bureau that confirms your eligibility to apply for a long-term visa like student, work, or dependent.

Yes, but only for short-term visas (tourist, business, or visiting relatives). For long-term stays, the COE is mandatory.

Standard processing takes about 5 working days after submission, but it may take longer if additional checks are needed.

Yes, students can work up to 28 hours per week after getting special permission from the immigration office in Japan.

Yes. All documents not in English or Japanese must be translated and submitted along with the original copy.

No. Visa application fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.

Yes, in most cases. But you must provide authorization and ID proof of the person submitting it.

There’s no fixed amount, but generally, you should show enough funds to cover your stay — often JPY 1,000,000+ for long-term stays.

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