Studying at a Japanese Language Institute (JLI) is the most common entry point for foreigners looking to build a long-term life in Japan. Unlike a typical university degree, these programs focus purely on language acquisition and cultural immersion, providing a "Student" visa status that serves as a bridge to higher education or employment.
1. The "Student" Visa Framework
To study at a language school for more than 3 months, you must obtain a Student Visa.
Duration: Typically granted for 6 months to 2 years. The maximum stay allowed at a language school is 2 years.  
Intake Periods: Most schools have four main start dates: April (the primary intake), July, October, and January.  
The COE: The most critical step is obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The school applies for this at the Japanese Immigration Bureau on your behalf before you apply for the actual visa at your local embassy.  
2. Eligibility and Requirements
While language schools are more accessible than universities, there are still strict criteria:
Educational Background: Most schools require at least 12 years of formal education (equivalent to a high school diploma).  
Financial Solvency: You (or a financial sponsor) must prove you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses—usually around 2 million JPY (~$14,000 USD) in a bank account.
Language Prerequisite: Some schools or immigration offices require proof of basic Japanese study (approximately 150 hours of study or an N5 level certification).  
3. Working While Studying
One of the unique benefits of the Japanese student visa is the Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted.  
The 28-Hour Rule: Students can work part-time up to 28 hours per week during school terms and up to 40 hours during long vacations (summer/winter breaks).  
Restrictions: You are strictly prohibited from working in "adult entertainment" businesses (bars, clubs, or gambling parlors).  
4. Why Start at a Language School?
Many foreigners choose this path because it offers a "soft landing" into Japanese society:
Higher Education Prep: Schools often provide EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission) prep for those wanting to enter Japanese universities.
Job Hunting: For those with a degree from their home country, a year at a JLI provides the language skills and local networking needed to transition to a Work Visa.  
Attendance Importance: Immigration monitors your attendance closely. Falling below an 80% attendance rate can lead to visa renewal denial or even deportation.
The Application Timeline
The process is long and requires planning roughly 6 months in advance.  
6–8 months before: Choose a school and submit your application.
5 months before: The school submits your documents to Immigration for the COE.  
1–2 months before: The COE is issued; you pay tuition and receive the original COE.
Weeks before: Take the COE to your local Japanese Embassy to get the visa stamped in your passport.