If one of our Japan programs has convinced you, you are probably also interested in the application process and would like to know what preparations you need to make for your time in Japan.

Just as the interests and destinations of our travelers vary, so do their stays in Japan and the preparations required. To ensure you are well-informed, our preparation guide provides all the essential information needed for your stay in Japan. For any individual questions or uncertainties, feel free to discuss them directly with us!

Step 1: Find your perfect Japan Program (10 ~ 5 months before start)

Short vacations in Japan, long time stays at a language school and working holidays: the options for for spending time in Japan are almost unlimited. Here you will find all the information you need about stays in Japan and the various visas available to you. Before you sign up for a Japan program, you should first find out about all the options and consider which of our programs is the most suitable for you.

If you are undecided or still have questions, you can contact us at any time: We can get to know each other briefly in a relaxed conversation on the phone or via video call and talk about your wishes and goals. Through direct contact, we find the perfect program for you and adapt it so that it is completely personalized to you and covers all your needs.
The interview is free of charge and completely non-binding – so you don’t need to worry if you decide not to go to Japan after all.

Step 2: Register for your Japan Program (~ 4 months before departure)

Once you have contacted us and found the perfect Japan program, the next step is to register for your stay in Japan.
To register, it is important that we first reserve a place for you at the language school in Japan and then apply for all the documents you need for your visa.

All registration deadlines can be found directly in our Japan programs.
You can leave all the bureaucracy to us – the only important thing is that you submit all the application forms and the required attachments on time.
Getting a long-term visa for Japan can sometimes be difficult and nerve-wracking – and the documents required vary greatly from person to person.
You will therefore receive a list of all the documents we need from you personally after an interview or via e-mail contact if you prefer to write.

As places at our partner language schools like the International Study Institute are often fully booked even before the application deadline, we recommend that you apply as early as possible.
To reserve your place, you only pay a registration fee in advance; you only need to pay the full course and accommodation fees shortly before your departure, once your trip has been confirmed.

Step 3: Control and Application Phase (4 ~ 2 months before departure)

Once you have submitted all the documents and received the green light from us, you can sit back and relax and compile a list of all the destinations you would like to visit in Japan.
Once you have submitted your documents, we will begin our work and, together with your language school, we will apply for all the documents you need to enter Japan.

In some cases, we find out at this stage that we need further documents from you, such as your most recent school report or a recent passport photo – but this rarely happens.

If you do not yet have a passport, you should apply for one as soon as possible.

Step 4: Book your Flight (2 months before departure)

Once all applications are completed and we confirm that your documents are en route, it’s clear: Japan awaits! If you haven’t already, now’s the time to book your flight and mentally prepare for sushi and samurai. Should you have any questions or need assistance with your booking, your dedicated contact person is available to assist you anytime.

Step 5: Secure your Accommodation (2 months before departure)

At this stage, we arrange your accommodation. Typically, we recommend student housing for language students, offering a convenient stay throughout your time in Japan. Details and pricing can be found directly in our Japan programs.

If you prefer something more unique or seek a private apartment, we’re here to facilitate the search and handle all arrangements on your behalf. Securing accommodation in Japan is usually quicker and easier compared to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, so rest assured, you won’t be left without a place to stay. It’s standard practice for us to finalize your accommodation arrangements two months prior to your departure.

Step 6: Payment of Fees (1-2 months before departure)

Once all details have been finalized and your stay in Japan is prepared, it’s time to proceed with payment for your accommodation fees. The language school will dispatch the essential documents (Certificate of Eligibility; “COE”) required for your Japan visa application upon receipt of payment.

These documents are sent directly from Japan and typically arrive within a week. Please keep this timeframe in mind. Delaying payment may result in not receiving the documents on time, potentially causing you to miss the beginning of your stay in Japan – a situation we aim to avoid.

Step 7: Apply for your Visa (1-2 months before departure)

Once you have received your COE, you can finally submit your visa application.
Most of our Japan programs qualify you for a student visa, which in many cases is also the most practical of all visas.

You must apply for your visa in person at a Japanese embassy close to you. Don’t forget all the documents – you will receive a detailed list from us.
Most visa applications only take a few days, so you can pick up your completed visa just a few days after submitting your application.
Please note: You have to go in person the second time at the embassy.

Step 8: Prepare your Belongings and start your Journey to Japan!

Congratulations – your journey to Japan is about to commence! Quickly pack your belongings and double-check your travel list. Once you arrive in Japan, you’ll be captivated by the experiences, possibly forgetting your initial plans!

Nervous? You don’t have to be – because we are always at your side during your trip. If you get stuck or need advice, you can contact us at any time. We will support you just as well during your trip as we did during the preparations – that’s a promise!