how long does it take to know visa application has begun?

[sluggO]

Hi all,
Nova sent my visa application to Japan at the end of last year. I'm supposed to go to Japan in March. I know I wont find out my location until 2 weeks before I leave but does anyone know how long it usually takes for them to contact you about when the exact departure date will be? I'm hoping that they don't inform me 2 weeks before I leave.

thanks
slugg0