Migration in Japan
Japan remains one of the world's most ethnically homogeneous countries, although international migration has become an increasingly important component of its demographic profile due to population aging and labor shortages. As of 2024, approximately 3.4 million foreign nationals resided in Japan, representing 2.7% of the total population. Women accounted for about half of the foreign population, which grew by 65% between 2014 and 2024.[1]
The largest foreign national communities were Chinese (24%), Vietnamese (17%), and Koreans (12%).[1]
In 2024, Japan admitted approximately 177,000 new long-term or permanent immigrants, an increase of 8.6% over the previous year. Labor migrants accounted for 63% of arrivals, followed by family migrants (34%) and humanitarian migrants (1%). Japan also issued approximately 167,000 permits to international students, 165,000 permits to technical trainees, and 102,000 permits to temporary and seasonal workers.[1]
Japan received approximately 14,000 first-time asylum applications in 2024, with most applicants originating from Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Türkiye. Of roughly 15,000 asylum decisions issued that year, 15% were positive.[1]
Recent immigration policy has focused on addressing labor shortages. In 2024, Japan abolished the Technical Intern Training Programme, replacing it with the Employment for Skill Development programme, scheduled to begin in 2027. The government also continued expanding the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) system, which covered 16 occupational fields by 2024 and provides a pathway toward long-term residence for qualified workers.[1]
Japan has also expanded integration measures for foreign residents. Government initiatives include the Comprehensive Measures for Acceptance and Coexistence of Foreign Nationals, training programmes for support coordinators, and settlement assistance for refugees and persons under complementary protection.[1]