Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Issued – What’s Next?

From COE Issuance to Visa and Entry into Japan

Step 1: Notification of COE Issuance

Once the Immigration Bureau approves the application, a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is issued. The original document is sent by post or email to the applicant or an authorized representative such as an administrative scrivener.

Step 2: Sending the COE to the Applicant

If the COE is issued as a physical document, send a copy of both sides to the applicant. If issued electronically, forward the email to the applicant overseas. The COE is valid for three months, and the applicant must enter Japan within this period.

Note: Special extensions may apply, so always check the latest validity rules.

Step 3: Visa Application at a Japanese Embassy/Consulate

The foreign applicant submits the COE copy, passport, visa application form, and other required documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate in their country. Requirements may vary by location, so it’s advised to check the respective embassy’s website or contact them directly.

Example: Ho Chi Minh Consulate Visa Guidelines

Step 4: Visa Issuance

The visa processing time varies by consulate, typically taking a few days to two weeks. In rare cases, an application may be denied due to concerns such as previous immigration violations.

Once approved, the visa is affixed to the applicant’s passport.

Step 5: Entry into Japan

Upon arrival at the airport in Japan, the applicant presents their passport, visa, and COE. If approved, they receive a landing permission stamp and, for mid- to long-term residents, a residence card.

For those arriving at major airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, etc.), the residence card is issued at the airport. The applicant must register their address at the local municipal office.

Need expert guidance? Contact us for professional support on your Japanese visa application.

 

Professional

Masakazu Murai
18 years’ experience in Investment Banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley(JV, MUFG Bank and Morgan Stanley).

He had provided financial advisory more than 500 entrepreneurs and senior management. During his tenure, he worked as an employee union executive committee member in promoting diversity, including the active participation of foreigners and women in the office, and engaged in activities to improve the working environment.

He specializes in financial consulting and VISA/PR consulting.
Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer
CMA(Japanese financial analyst license)
CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship