Study in Belgium vs Japan: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Belgium and Japan— the funds you must show, living costs, fees, processing time and document load. Figures are sourced from each country's official pages and date-verified.
| Factor | Belgium | Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 12,744 EUR | 2,000,000 JPY |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,062 EUR | 120,000 JPY |
| Visa fee | 215 EUR | 3,000 JPY |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~10 weeks |
| Main intakes | Feb, Sep | Apr, Oct |
| Required documents | 5 | 6 |
Funds are shown in each country's own currency, so “lower” is only marked when currencies match. Always confirm current figures on the official sources below.
Verdict: Belgium vs Japan
- Japan needs less money up front — about €11,765/year versus €12,744 for Belgium (≈ €979 less).
- Belgium is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~10 for Japan).
- Belgium asks for fewer required documents (5).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to Belgium
- Enrolment at a recognised institution
- Means of subsistence
- Health insurance
- Medical certificate
Unique to Japan
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Admission to a Japanese institution
- Proof of funds
- National Health Insurance
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Belgium or Japan?
By proof of funds, Japan is cheaper — €11,765/year versus €12,744 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Belgium or Japan?
Belgium typically processes faster (~8 weeks vs ~10). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Belgium or Japan?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Japan needs less money up front — about €11,765/year versus €12,744 for Belgium (≈ €979 less). Belgium is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~10 for Japan). Belgium asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.