Japan is making significant updates to its international student recruitment and visa policies, creating more favorable opportunities for foreign students, particularly those from Vietnam planning to study in Japan in 2026.

These policies were clarified in the latest update released by Study in Japan, the official government platform for international students in Japan.

Visa Policy Adjustments from 2026

In order to attract highly skilled international talent, the Japanese government has announced several adjustments in the student visa application process, including:

• Shortening the processing time for Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

• Expanding transparent financial requirements

• Longer stay options for graduates wanting to stay in Japan for work

• More flexibility for students to study in both English and Japanese

These changes are expected to make it easier for international students to apply, reduce waiting times for visa approvals, and support a smoother academic journey in Japan.

Expanded International Student Recruitment Policy

In addition to optimizing visa procedures, Japan is also promoting its international student recruitment programs:

• Universities, colleges, and Japanese language schools are encouraged to increase student quotas for the 2026 academic year.

• Many institutions are offering exclusive scholarships for international students starting from the first round of admissions.

• Bilingual programs (in both English and Japanese) are being implemented more widely at prestigious schools.

This is great news for students from Vietnam who may not have high proficiency in Japanese but want to pursue an advanced degree or study in English first before transitioning to Japanese-based programs.

Positive Impact for Vietnamese Students

The new adjustments bring practical benefits:

• Clearer financial support when processing Visa applications

• Reduced COE & Visa processing times, especially for applications for April 2026 intake

• Increased scholarship opportunities due to expanded student quotas

• Flexible study options, from English-based programs → Japanese → specialized fields

Additionally, students can now choose international standard programs from the start, easing the pressure of learning Japanese early on.

Pathway to Study Abroad in Japan 2026 with AnKoi – From Application to Success

When you decide to study in Japan, the journey will be challenging, but exciting. To help you navigate through every step, AnKoi will accompany you from your first steps until you arrive in Japan and begin your new life.

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Choose the Right School

We will help you:

• Identify your preferred field of study and school that matches your financial capacity, educational goals, and long-term career plans in Japan.

• Guide you in selecting between Japanese language schools, Senmon (vocational schools), universities, or postgraduate programs to ensure your studies are both appropriate and will offer the best career opportunities.

Step 2: Plan Your Japanese Language Studies & Prepare for the Application Process

Before heading to Japan, proficiency in the language is crucial. AnKoi offers:

• A clear roadmap for learning Japanese, with both online and offline courses.

• JLPT preparation, helping you achieve the necessary proficiency (N5, N4, N3…) and get ready for your program in Japan.

Don’t worry if you’re not yet proficient in Japanese – AnKoi will help you develop a structured and effective learning plan.

Step 3: Complete Your Application & Submit the Documents

Preparing the right application is crucial to entering MEXT or other scholarship programs in Japan. AnKoi will help you:

• Prepare scholarship documents, including registration forms, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and study plans.

• Ensure that your application meets the requirements of each program, giving you the best chance to be accepted.

Step 4: Interview and Test Preparation

We will help you:

• Practice for visa and scholarship interviews, ensuring that you present yourself confidently and make a strong impression on admissions representatives.

• Improve your writing skills for the application essays to highlight your motivations and clear study goals.

Step 5: Student Visa and Pre-departure Preparations

To ensure that your transition to Japan is as smooth as possible, AnKoi will guide you through the entire visa application process:

• Assist in preparing your student visa documents and handle procedures with the Japanese embassy.

• Offer advice on health insurance, housing, and other preparations for life in Japan.

Step 6: The Journey Begins

Once you arrive in Japan, we won’t leave you behind. AnKoi will continue to support you throughout your studies:

• Help you find part-time jobs in Japan to support your living expenses.

• Provide career advice on post-graduation job opportunities, whether you want to stay in Japan or return with a solid career.

Contact AnKoi Today! If you want to achieve your dream of studying in Japan and receive scholarships from top universities, contact AnKoi to start this exciting journey today.