"Student Visa" and the Risks of Fake Student Enrollment

  Explained in video

What is Fake Student Enrollment? Tightened Immigration Screening and Key Points to Note

Definition of Fake Student Enrollment

The term "fake study abroad" refers to the act of applying for and obtaining a "college student visa" for the purpose of working or staying in Japan for a long period of time, when in fact the purpose of the visa is not to study. For example, a typical example is a case in which a student has applied for admission to a language school but has not actually attended the school, and in fact, the main purpose of the student is to work part-time.

“Fake student enrollment” refers to cases where a person applies for and obtains a Student Visa in Japan not for the genuine A typical example is enrolling in a language school but rarely attending classes, while the true purpose is to engage primarily in part-time work. A typical example is enrolling in a language school but rarely attending classes, while the true purpose is to engage primarily in part-time work.

Strict Measures by the Immigration Services Agency

Japan's Immigration Services (Immigration Bureau) has been further strengthening its monitoring and screening of "fake study abroad" in recent years. If fraudulent activities are discovered, the following serious disciplinary actions may be taken

• Denial or revocation of status of residence
• deportation order
• (measures prohibiting re-entry into Japan)
  In fact, there have been many reported cases of students with poor attendance records and foreign students found to be working excessively have been caught.

In recent years, the Immigration Services Agency of Japan has been strengthening its monitoring and screening against fake student enrollment. If misconduct is discovered, the following serious penalties may be imposed: a. Fake student enrollment

Refusal or revocation of residence status

Deportation order

Entry ban to Japan

There have in fact been numerous reported cases where students with poor attendance records or those engaged in excessive employment were exposed and There have in fact been numerous reported cases where students with poor attendance records or those engaged in excessive employment were exposed and penalized.

Risks Posed by Fake Student Enrollment

Even if you are able to stay in Japan temporarily, your future application for status of residence or permanent residence may be adversely affected. In addition, institutions and intermediaries involved in the fraud are also subject to punishment and risk losing social credibility.

Even if a person temporarily succeeds in staying in Japan, involvement in fake student enrollment can negatively affect future applications for other residence statuses or permanent residency. Institutions or intermediaries that assisted in the misconduct may also face penalties, risking the loss of credibility and reputation. Institutions or intermediaries that assisted in the misconduct may also face penalties, risking the loss of credibility and reputation.

FAQ: Risks and Practical Points of Fake Student Enrollment

What is a fake study abroad visa? (Points to keep in mind when applying for a student visa)

This is an act of using a college student visa to work or stay in Japan for a long period of time, without studying as the original purpose. Typical cases are those where there is no actual attendance, or where the main purpose of the visa is to work part-time. When considering applying for a college student visa, it is important to have proof of actual school attendance (attendance, study plan, payment of tuition fees, etc.).

What are the risks of being found to be studying abroad under false pretenses?

There is a possibility of serious penalties such as denial or revocation of status of residence, deportation, and ban on re-entry. It will also be detrimental to your future examination for permanent residence or other status of residence.

Can I work in any way with a Permit to Engage in Activities Outside of the Status of Residence?

No. The only work permitted under the Permit to Engage in Activity other than that Permit is part-time work up to 28 hours per week. The Permit to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence is mainly for part-time work as an employee up to 28 hours per week. In principle, self-employment and business management are not eligible.

What are my options if I want to do business in Japan?

We will consider the use of "Management/Administration" visas and start-up support programs offered by local governments. Our firm provides comprehensive support for company establishment, business plan development, and application for status of residence.

What practical points should I pay attention to when applying for a college student visa?

Vouchers for payment of tuition fees, attendance and study plans, proof of financial resources for living expenses, and admission to the school. If discrepancies between the application and the actual situation are suspected, the risk of being judged as a fake study abroad increases.

What is fake student enrollment?

Fake student enrollment refers to using a Student Visa not for genuine study, but effectively for work or long-term residence. When applying for a Student Visa, it is essential to provide evidence of actual When applying for a Student Visa, it is essential to provide evidence of actual study activities (attendance, study plans, tuition payment, etc.).

If I obtain permission for part-time work, can I engage in any kind of work?

No. Permission for “activities outside the scope of the visa” mainly allows part-time employment of up to 28 hours per week as an employee. Self-employment and running a business are generally not permitted.

What options are available if I want to start a business in Japan?

You should consider the “Business Manager” visa or a local government's startup support program. provides comprehensive support for company establishment, preparation of business plans, and residence status applications.

What practical points should I be careful about when applying for a Student Visa?

Proof of tuition payment, attendance and study plans, evidence of financial resources for living expenses, and admission from a school are all required. If there is a discrepancy between the application and the actual situation, there is a high risk that it will be considered fake student enrollment.