Study in Canada vs Japan: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Canada 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 | Canada | Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 22,895 CAD | 2,000,000 JPY |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,908 CAD | 120,000 JPY |
| Visa fee | 150 CAD | 3,000 JPY |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~10 weeks |
| Main intakes | Jan, May, Sep | Apr, Oct |
| Required documents | 7 | 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: Canada vs Japan
- Japan needs less money up front — about €11,765/year versus €15,575 for Canada (≈ €3,810 less).
- Canada is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~10 for Japan).
- Japan asks for fewer required documents (6).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to Canada
- Letter of acceptance (LOA)
- Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL)
- Proof of financial support
- Health insurance
- English/French language proof
- Biometrics
- Medical exam
- GIC / tuition transfer
Unique to Japan
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Admission to a Japanese institution
- Proof of funds
- National Health Insurance
- Language proof
- Tuition / funds transfer
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Canada or Japan?
By proof of funds, Japan is cheaper — €11,765/year versus €15,575 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Canada or Japan?
Canada typically processes faster (~8 weeks vs ~10). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Canada or Japan?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Japan needs less money up front — about €11,765/year versus €15,575 for Canada (≈ €3,810 less). Canada is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~10 for Japan). Japan asks for fewer required documents (6). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.