Study in Spain vs Japan: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Spain 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 | Spain | Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 7,200 EUR | 2,000,000 JPY |
| Living cost (per month) | 600 EUR | 120,000 JPY |
| Visa fee | 80 EUR | 3,000 JPY |
| Typical processing time | ~4 weeks | ~10 weeks |
| Main intakes | Sep, Jan | 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: Spain vs Japan
- Spain needs less money up front — about €7,200/year versus €11,765 for Japan (≈ €4,565 less).
- Spain is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~10 for Japan).
- Spain 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 Spain
- Admission to an approved course
- Financial means (IPREM)
- Private health insurance
- Criminal record certificate
- Medical certificate
- Proof of accommodation
Unique to Japan
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Admission to a Japanese institution
- Proof of funds
- National Health Insurance
- Accommodation
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Spain or Japan?
By proof of funds, Spain is cheaper — €7,200/year versus €11,765 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Spain or Japan?
Spain typically processes faster (~4 weeks vs ~10). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Spain or Japan?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Spain needs less money up front — about €7,200/year versus €11,765 for Japan (≈ €4,565 less). Spain is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~10 for Japan). Spain asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.