Shin-Okubo neighborhood

Living in Japan

Your essential guide to student life.

Your first steps in Japan —

we'll guide you through every one.

01
Official Documents

Residence Card

在留カード

Your Residence Card is the most important document you will receive in Japan. It serves as your official ID and proves your legal status in the country.

  • Issued at Narita or Haneda Airport upon entry
  • Serves as vital ID — keep it safe at all times
  • Apply for work permission at the airport (recommended)
  • School will support later applications if needed
Japanese Residence Card

Sample Residence Card

Japanese Health Insurance Card

Sample Health Insurance Card

02
Healthcare

Health Insurance

住民登録・国民健康保険

14-Day Deadline

Register at the municipal office within 14 days of arrival. Failure may affect your visa status.

  • Register at municipal office within 14 days
  • Enroll in National Health Insurance simultaneously
  • Monthly premium: approximately ¥1,900
  • Insurance covers 70% of medical expenses
  • Card required for all hospital visits
03
Banking

Opening a Bank Account

銀行口座開設

First 6 Months

Restrictions Apply

  • Only Japan Post Bank available
  • Deposits and withdrawals only
  • No transfers or remittances
After 6 Months

Full Access

  • Open accounts at any bank
  • Full transfer capabilities
  • International remittances

Our school provides support throughout the process.

04
Employment

Part-time Work

アルバイト

Many students work part-time. However, there are strict rules to maintain your visa status.

  • Obtain work permission from Immigration Bureau first
  • Permission valid only during current visa period
  • Maximum 28 hours per week during school
  • Up to 8 hours per day during long vacations
  • Adult entertainment industry prohibited

28

hours per week

Exceeding this limit is a serious violation resulting in visa revocation, deportation, and future visa denial.

Students at Waseda Japanese Language School

"Every step forward is a step toward your dreams."

05
Academic Documents

Applying for Certificates

各種証明書の申請

Certificate of Enrollment

在学証明書

Proves current student status

Attendance & Grades

出席・成績証明書

Shows academic record

Graduation Certificate

卒業(見込)証明書

For university/job applications

How to Apply

Location

School office

Payment

Cash only

Regular

3 business days

Urgent

Next day (+fee)

06
Travel

Temporary Departure

一時帰国・再入国

Planning to visit home during vacation? Follow these steps for smooth re-entry.

  • Get approval from homeroom teacher
  • Submit Temporary Departure Application
  • Carry Residence Card and Passport
  • Check re-entry permit validity (usually 1 year)

Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Homeroom teacher approval
  • Temporary Departure form submitted
  • Re-entry permit confirmed
  • Residence Card packed
  • Passport packed
  • Emergency contacts saved
07
Safety

Disaster Prevention

防災対策

Join Drills

Participate in school disaster drills

Emergency Alerts

Register for alert systems on your phone

Know Shelters

Learn your nearest evacuation location

Save Contacts

Keep emergency numbers in your phone

Emergency Kit

Water, food, flashlight, first aid

Stay Informed

Follow official news during emergencies

Emergency Response

Earthquake

Drop, Cover, Hold. Away from windows.

Typhoon

Stay indoors. Follow evacuation orders.

Fire

Evacuate immediately. Use stairs only.

We're here for you.

Questions about our support services? Our team is ready to help you succeed.