Number of Foreign Residents in Japan Surpasses 4 Million for the First Time — What's Happening?

As of the end of 2025, the number of foreign residents living in Japan reached approximately 4.12 million, surpassing the 4 million mark for the first time.

This represents a 9.5% increase compared with the previous year and is the highest figure ever recorded.

Today, foreign residents are becoming an increasingly familiar part of everyday life in Japan.

Why Is the Foreign Population Growing?

There are two main reasons:

1. A growing labor shortage.

2. The expansion of programs for foreign nationals, such as the Specified Skilled Worker visa.

In particular, industries such as caregiving, food service, construction, and manufacturing increasingly rely on foreign workers to keep operating.

In addition, Japan welcomed approximately 42.4 million foreign visitors in 2025, also a record high, with growth seen in tourism, international education, and employment.

Which Nationalities Are the Most Common?

The largest groups of foreign residents are:

• China: approximately 930,000

• Vietnam: approximately 680,000

• South Korea: approximately 400,000

While these three countries account for the largest populations, the number of residents from countries such as Nepal and Indonesia has also been growing rapidly in recent years.

What Types of Residence Status Do They Hold?

Among foreign residents, the largest residence status categories are:

• Permanent Residents: approximately 940,000

• Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services: approximately 470,000

• International Students: approximately 460,000

In other words, the foreign population in Japan mainly consists of:

• People who have already settled in Japan for the long term.

• Foreign professionals working for companies.

• International students preparing to enter the Japanese workforce.

The Number of Visa Overstayers Is Declining

Meanwhile, the number of visa overstayers has fallen to approximately 68,000, marking the second consecutive year of decline.

The Japanese government continues to pursue its goal of eliminating illegal overstays, and current measures are showing positive results.