Top 10 Foreign Nationalities in Japan (as of End of 2024)
| Rank | Country | Population |
|---|
| 1 | China 🇨🇳 | 873,286 |
| 2 | Vietnam 🇻🇳 | 634,361 |
| 3 | South Korea 🇰🇷 | 409,238 |
| 4 | Philippines 🇵🇭 | 341,518 |
| 5 | Nepal 🇳🇵 | 233,043 |
| 6 | Indonesia 🇮🇩 | 199,824 |
| 7 | Myanmar 🇲🇲 | 134,574 |
| 8 | Taiwan 🇹🇼 | 70,147 |
| 9 | United States 🇺🇸 | 66,111 |
| 10 | Thailand 🇹🇭 | 65,398 |
Total foreign residents in Japan (end of 2024): 3.77 million
Year-on-year growth: 10.5%
(Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan)
Why Are So Many Nepalis Coming to Japan?
Nepalis are coming to Japan for various reasons, including:
Study (language schools, universities, senmon gakkou)
Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Program
IT and Engineering Jobs
Jobs in restaurants, care homes, cleaning, factories, konbini.
Long-term residence via family ties or visa conversions
👉 In 2024 alone, over 35,000 new Nepali residents were recorded entering Japan!
Read more on Types of japan Visa for Nepali Citizens
We’ve Surpassed the US, Thailand, and Even Brazil!
That’s right — Nepal now has more residents in Japan than Americans, Brazilians, and Thais.
This means we’re not just a small minority anymore. We’re a strong, growing community that deserves:
But Growth Comes with Challenges
Visa rules are changing — and not everyone stays updated.
– SSW and student visas now require JLPT and skill tests.
Language is still a barrier
– You need at least JLPT N4 or N3 to access better jobs.
Nepalis are still disconnected
– Even with so many of us here, there’s a lack of community organization and mutual support.
❤️ Why Nepali Connect Japan Exists
“Nepali Connect Japan” was created for you — to guide Nepali students, workers, and families with:Where to live, how to get jobs, how to avoid scams, how to renew your visa, what to do if you get sick…”
We are here to share truth, provide support, and help build a better life in Japan for every Nepali.
Final Thoughts
“Our numbers are rising — now it’s time to raise our voice too.”
We’ve made it to the top 5. Let’s now grow in education, employment, social presence, and unity.