What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?

The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is an essential document issued by the Japanese Immigration Bureau. It certifies that you meet the conditions for entry into Japan. A COE is a prerequisite for obtaining a Japan Student Visa and is usually arranged by your Japanese language school.

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Documents Checklist for COE Application

Here’s a comprehensive list of documents typically required by Japanese language schools for the COE application:

1. Passport

   • A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
   • Clear scanned copies of the photo and signature pages.

2. Application Form for COE

   • Filled out completely and signed.
   • Provided by the language school or Japanese Immigration Bureau.

3. Photographs

   • Recent passport-sized photographs (3 cm x 4 cm).
   • Usually 4-6 photos with a plain white background.

4. Educational Certificates

   • Copies of academic certificates (high school, college, or university).
   • Academic transcripts of all completed education.
   • Translations in Japanese or English if the originals are in another language.

5. Proof of Japanese Language Proficiency

   • JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) certificate, if applicable.
   • Certificate from a language institute or school (if available).

6. Statement of Purpose (SOP)

   • A document outlining your reasons for studying in Japan.
   • Should include your future goals and how studying in Japan aligns with them.

7. Proof of Financial Capability

   • Bank statements showing sufficient funds (last 6 months).
   • Sponsorship letter (if someone else is sponsoring your studies).
   • Income proof of the sponsor (e.g., salary slips, tax returns).
   • Evidence of a stable financial source.

8. Certificate of Employment (if applicable)

   • A document from your employer indicating your employment status, if you are currently working.

9. Family Relationship Proof (if a sponsor is a family member)

   • Documents like birth certificates or family registration proving the relationship.

10. Health Certificate (if required)

    • A medical certificate proving you are fit to travel and study in Japan.

11. School-Specific Forms

    • Some language schools may require additional forms, such as guarantor information or emergency contact details.
    • Check with the specific school for any extra requirements.

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Tips for Document Submission

• Ensure all documents are complete and error-free.
• Translate any non-English or non-Japanese documents by a certified translator.
• Submit all documents within the deadlines set by the language school.
• Keep extra copies for future reference.