Japan Visa

My Japan Visa came in the mail yesterday! So far, everything is running smoothly concerning the plans for my trip. Now I just have a bunch of little things to do. For example, figure out how I am going to get/use a phone while I am in Japan. Should I switch to an international plan? Do I buy an entirely new phone? Do I wait until I get there? Also, how do I set up my international bank account? Which bank should I use? Other things I have to do include buying little toiletries and things of that nature, figuring out what I'm going to pack, buying a power adapter (since their outlets and electricity differ from ours here), etc.

It's exciting to be down to only the little details. I will be leaving about a month from now! I am completely psyched, and still nervous, but I assume these are both normal emotions. More than anything, I'm ready to get started on this amazing experience!

For now though, I'll do my best to enjoy my last month in the States. : )

じゃ！
Corri(nne)

Certificate of Eligibility

Today, my Certificate of Eligibility came in the mail. This is the document that allows me to apply for my visa, something everyone needs when they spend over 90 days in a foreign country.

The visa application is actually fairly simple. I am required to send my documents to the Japanese Consulate in New York City (where you have to send it depends on where you live) in order to apply for my visa. Once they receive everything and okay it (a process that generally takes about four to five days), they will return my passport to me with my Japanese visa.

In an envelope sent via the United States Postal Service I am asked to include the followng:

- Completed visa application form
- Release of Liability form
- Passport
- Certificate of Eligibility (2 copies)

Now that I have everything filled out, all that's left to do is send it! Now that the last of the paperwork is taken care of, it's down to the finer details. What am I going to pack? How do I set up my bank account? What type of phone should I get? And all that jazz.

One step at a time. One month closer to my goal!

じゃ！
Corri(nne)