Nepali population in Japan surges to over 200 thousand

KATHMANDU, MARCH 14: The Nepali population in Japan has grown significantly, reaching 233,043, according to the latest statistics from Japan’s Immigration Bureau. As of December 2024, Nepal ranks as the fifth-largest source of foreign nationals in Japan, surpassing Brazil.

Between 2012 and 2024, the number of Nepalis in Japan increased sharply. In 2012, only 24,071 Nepalis resided in the country, but by the end of 2024, the figure had surged to 233,043. This rise is largely driven by the growing influx of Nepali students pursuing language courses and higher education. Additionally, Japan’s declining birth rate and aging population have created a demand for foreign workers, particularly in manufacturing, nursing care, agriculture, and the service sector, where many Nepalis are employed.

As per the latest data, Japan’s foreign resident population includes 873,286 Chinese, 634,361 Vietnamese, 409,238 South Koreans, 341,518 Filipinos, 211,907 Brazilians, 199,824 Indonesians, 134,574 Myanmar nationals, 70,147 Taiwanese, and 66,111 Americans.

The majority of Nepalis in Japan fall within the 20–29 age group. As of June 2024, there are 59,702 Nepalis aged 20–24 and 48,304 in the 25–29 category. The 30–34 age group comprises 31,330 individuals, followed by 18,732 in the 35–39 bracket, 10,893 between 40 and 44, and 5,744 in the 45–49 age group.

The data also indicates that six Nepalis in Japan are over 80 years old. Additionally, there are 10,280 Nepali children under four years old, 4,308 aged five to nine, 3,786 aged ten to fourteen, and 9,651 aged fifteen to nineteen. This trend highlights the increasing presence of young Nepalis in Japan, primarily driven by education and employment opportunities.