After completing the first three related processes, it is time to prepare for the various procedures for entering Japan. Before obtaining a visa, there is a document that needs to be applied for first, which is the "Certificate of Eligibility", known as the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) in English, and because the name is too long, the letters are usually referred to by the name of CoE.
Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
The Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) is a document created under Japan's Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. Its main function is to confirm that the applicant meets certain eligibility requirements, which is a prerequisite for applying for a Japanese visa. Simply put, without a CoE, the applicant will not be able to successfully apply for a Japanese visa.
Why do we need CoE?
The CoE exists to ensure that the applicant's status and purpose are in accordance with the Japanese government's regulations and to prevent illegal residence. Once the CoE is obtained, the applicant can go to the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Japan and obtain the appropriate visa according to the CoE to officially enter Japan.
How do I apply for a CoE?
The following is a brief introduction to the application process and some personal advice.
Application Process
- Contact Japanese Schools
Usually, as an exchange student, a Japanese school (e.g. Tohoku University of Technology) will assist the applicant in applying for a CoE. They will provide a sample application form and guide the applicant in filling in the required information. - Preparation of required documents
Depending on the type of application, the required documents may vary. For exchange students, the following documents are generally required:- Application Form: A template provided by a Japanese school.
- Proof of Property: It is usually necessary to prove that the applicant has sufficient financial resources to support his/her life in Japan, such as proof of savings of up to 1 million yen.
- Personal Information: Include a copy of your passport, recent transcripts, etc.
- photographs: Photographs of documents of the required size.
- Submit an Application
Submit the completed application form and all related documents to the Japanese school. The school will be responsible for sending the information to the Immigration Bureau in Japan for review. - Waiting for Audit
The CoE review usually takes 1 to 2 months. During this time, applicants can prepare other necessary documents in advance to avoid delays in the review process that may affect their departure plans.
Tips and advice
- Early application: It is recommended to start applying for a CoE 2 to 3 months before you leave the country to ensure that you have enough time to complete all the formalities.
- Data Preparation: Ensure that all information submitted is true and complete to avoid any delay in application due to incomplete or incorrect information.
- Keeping in touch with the school: Maintain close contact with the international exchange office of the Japanese school during the application process and respond to any needs or questions they may have in a timely manner.
How do I get a visa?
Visa Application Steps
- Steps to take after obtaining a CoE
Once you have received your CoE from the Japanese school, you will need to apply for your visa at the Japan Association in Taiwan (e.g., the Japan Exchange Society in Taipei or Kaohsiung) within three months. - Documents required for visa application preparation
Taiwan passport holders usually need to prepare the following documents:- Two-inch photo ×1
- Passport(valid for at least six months)
- Visa Application Form
- CoE and its front and back photocopies
- Identity card and its front and back photocopies
- Submit an Application
Visit the Taipei or Kaohsiung office of the Japan Exchange Society and submit all required documents. Usually, you will receive a notification sheet after application informing you when you can come to pick up your visa. - Obtaining a Visa
Generally, visas are available about five working days after submission of the application. Be sure to follow the instructions on the notification form to pick up your visa at the office.
Fees
- CoE Application Fee: There is no handling fee for applying for a CoE.
- Visa Application Fee: A handling fee of approximately NT$1,000 will be charged for visa exchange (Reference SitesPlease refer to the actual cost at the time.) Please refer to the actual cost at the time.
Purchase of Airline Tickets (non-scholarship recipients)
Basically, if you have received a scholarship from the PTI, you will have someone to help you book your air ticket, so you usually do not have the burden of booking your own air ticket; on the other hand, most international students still need to pay for their own air tickets, so if you have not yet purchased an air ticket, you can try the website "Trip.com".
Trip.com is an online travel agent that makes it easy to plan and book trips. Users can compare and book hotels, air tickets, train tickets, car rentals and more worldwide. The benefits to users are as follows:
- Wide range of options: A one-time search of travel products from around the world, offering options to fit every budget and need, allowing users to find the travel plan that best suits their needs.
- User-friendly interface: Intuitive design and simple operability make it easy to use even for beginners.
- App is easy to manage: Easy booking and management while on the go.
- Multiple Payment Methods: Supports various payment methods such as credit card, debit card and bank transfer.
- Multi-language support: Multi-language services are available, creating a user-friendly environment for global travelers.
- 24/7/365 Customer Support: You can also get help in case of problems or emergencies while traveling.
- Promotions and Offers: Regular promotions are offered, especially the "Air + Wine" package plan is more favorable, so that users have more opportunities to enjoy cost-effective travel.
All in all, Trip.com is a platform designed to enhance the efficiency of travel planning and provide users with a convenient and fulfilling travel experience. If you're interested, try the Japanese interface and learn to start a new life in Japanese!
Conclusion
After completing the various steps in the exchange student application process, preparing for your CoE and visa is the final stage of your journey into Japan. With the help of the Japanese school, you can apply for your CoE and get your visa quickly to ensure that your exchange trip starts smoothly. Below is a brief summary of the entire process:
- Acquisition of exchange places
Apply through the school and get the exchange place in Japan. - Apply for Short-term Scholarship
For example, PTI scholarships to alleviate the financial burden. - Application for CoE
Work with a Japanese school to submit the required information and wait for review. - Visa Processing
After obtaining your CoE, prepare the necessary documents for your visa application and visit the Japan Exchange Society to apply for your visa. - Getting ready to go abroad
After confirming your visa, you will be able to make all the necessary preparations for your exchange trip to Japan.
Applying for an exchange program is not an easy path, but as long as you have a plan, are prepared, and take one step at a time, your dream will come true. Looking back on this experience, not only did I realize my dream of studying in Japan, but I also learned how to face challenges and manage my time and resources.
And so, on March 30, 2016, after everything was ready, I set off.
Related Resources
- Application for Certificate of Eligibility
- Taiwan passport holders of "Certificate of Eligibility".
- 1. Visa / Certificate of Eligibility (COE) / Eligibility to Reside / On Residence Card
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