❓ What is the Average Cost of Living in Japan?

Question:

I am unsure about the amount of living expenses that financial supporters are expected to cover. Can you provide information on the average cost?

Answer:

Determining the appropriate amount for living expenses in Japan involves considering whether the amount is adequate for daily needs and whether the financial supporter(s) can comfortably provide this amount based on their annual income and other financial circumstances.

Key Points to Consider:

1. Sufficiency of Funds: The amount should be enough to cover all basic living costs including housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
2. Financial Capability of Supporters: It is essential to ensure that the financial backers can afford these contributions without hardship.

Estimated Monthly Costs:

• Overview from Recent Survey: The "Survey of Students' Living Conditions" by the National Federation of University Co-operative Associations (2021) found that the average monthly cost of living for university students living alone is approximately ¥125,540. This includes:
  • Rent: ¥54,000
  • Savings and Advances: ¥14,300
  • Other Living Expenses (after rent and savings): ¥56,740
• Rent Considerations: The cost of rent can vary significantly depending on the location and availability of student dormitories.

Additional Guidance:

• Calculating Your Expenses: To estimate your specific needs, start with the baseline for other living expenses (¥56,740) and add your expected rent costs.
• Minimum Amounts: In areas like Tokyo, many Japanese language schools recommend a minimum monthly living expense budget starting from ¥80,000.

Conclusion:

While there is no fixed rule for the amount to be declared on the immigration application form, using the figures from the survey and the guidelines provided by educational institutions can help in estimating a reasonable budget for living expenses in Japan.