Family
Can my child attend public school without speaking Japanese?
Yes. Foreign children residing in Japan can generally attend public elementary and junior-high schools, though the legal compulsory-education framework differs from that for Japanese nationals.
VerifiedExact primary sourceLast checked: 18 Aug 2026
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- Apply through the local board of education/municipality.
Documents
- Identity documents
- Civil-status / relationship documents
- Certified translations where required
Likely cost
Program-specific. Public compulsory-school tuition is generally free, while meals/materials/activities and childcare charges depend on household and municipality.
Where to act
Municipal office / board of education / childcare division for the place where you live or will live.