Is it possible to change a temporary visitor visa to a college student visa? A Thorough Explanation of "Unavoidable Circumstances

As a general rule, change of status from Temporary Visitor to other status is not permitted, though,When there are "unavoidable special circumstances" recognized by the Minister of JusticeExceptions may be made in cases where

In this issue, we will explain what exactly these "unavoidable circumstances" mean in simple terms.

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1. in principle, "return home once" is required

First of all, as a basic premise, the Japanese Immigration Law stipulates that "in principle, changes from a temporary visitor visa are not permitted. Normally, the rule for studying abroad is to follow the steps below.

1. Stand by in home country
2. Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through a Japanese school
3. Re-enter Japan with a visa issued by the local Japanese embassy

The exception to this rule to avoid the "hassle of returning home once" is"compelling circumstances.".

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(2) Cases in which "unavoidable circumstances" are likely to be recognized

Reasons such as simply "wasting money on airline tickets" or "it's a hassle to go home" are not acceptable. In practice, the following cases are subject to consideration.

(1) Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is issued.

This is the case when a COE for study abroad that you have applied for is granted in a timely manner during your short-term stay.

Points: 1. The fact that the applicant "has already passed the Ministry of Justice's examination and has proven that he/she is eligible to study abroad" is a strong material to be recognized as a humanitarian consideration and the reasonableness of the procedure.

(2) Deterioration of situation or disaster in home country

The applicant's home country is experiencing political instability, conflict, or a major natural disaster that makes it physically difficult or dangerous for the applicant to return to his/her home country.

(iii) Illness or injury of the person

This is a case in which the student is unable to endure a long flight due to an unforeseen accident or illness, or requires continuous medical treatment in Japan, and is about to enter the school without any change (see below).Requires a medical certificate or other rigorous proof(It is).

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3. important conditions for obtaining a permit

Not only must there be "circumstances," but the applicant must also meet the basic requirements for a college student visa.

• Presence of COE:. In current practice, having the COE (Certificate of Eligibility) in hand is close to a "minimum requirement" to obtain a change of status.
• Proof of tuition and living expenses:. You must be able to prove that you have sufficient funds to continue your studies in Japan.
• Attendance and behavior:. The student must have no problems with activities during his/her short-term stay and must have completed the enrollment process at the school where he/she will study.

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4. note: the final decision lies with the "Immigration Bureau

It is the Immigration Office that determines if it is "unavoidable." There is no guarantee that you will be able to change your visa to a 100% because you have a COE. Depending on individual circumstances, you may be instructed to return to your country and reapply for a visa.

Advice:. > Since the examination process takes time, it is essential to consult and apply well in advance of the expiration of the short-term stay.

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summary

The change of status from Temporary Visitor to Study Abroad is only a "special exception". Basically, it is important to understand that this is a route to be considered when the COE is in hand and there is a reasonable difficulty in returning to Japan now.

If you are unsure whether your situation falls under the category of "unavoidable," we recommend that you consult with a professional administrative scrivener as soon as possible.