Immigration in Japan: Three Myths to Debunk!

News about immigration in Japan is often shrouded in myths and misunderstandings that can make the country seem more exclusive or strict than it actually is. Today, we’ll explore and debunk three common myths about immigration.

These myths include the ideas that foreigners are taking over, that they receive special visas or safe havens, and that all undocumented immigrants are being deported. Let’s separate fact from fiction and discover the real story behind immigration in Japan.

Myth #1: “Foreigners are taking over Japan.”

Some people believe that foreigners are “taking over” Japan, but this is not the case. At the end of 2024, there were 3,768,977 foreign residents in the country. This is only about 2.25% of the total population. Although the number has increased by 10.5% from the previous year, it remains minimal compared to countries like the United States.

Most non-Japanese residents reside in cities and hold specific jobs. Tokyo has the most significant foreign population, with 738,946 people, which accounts for approximately 20% of all foreign residents. Other cities with many non-citizen populations include Osaka, Aichi, Kanagawa, and Saitama. Many people are students, technical interns, or permanent residents. They work in various fields, including education, healthcare, tourism, and technology. These jobs often need more workers than the country can provide with only Japanese citizens.

Many residents come from many different countries. The largest group is from China, with 873,286 people. Vietnam follows with 634,361, and South Korea has 409,238. Other countries include many residents from Nepal, the Philippines, Brazil, Indonesia, and the United States. The number of Vietnamese residents is growing the fastest because the country needs more skilled workers in healthcare and technical fields.

What is life like for foreigners in Japan?

Most residents follow laws and engage respectfully with local communities. Local governments provide support and lessons for residents through various international centers. This reflects the country’s emphasis on harmony and cooperation, helping communities coexist smoothly.

Sometimes tourists notice signs in restaurants, shops, or gyms that say “Japanese only” and share these photos of these signs online, saying it is discrimination. While these signs may feel unwelcoming, they are typically not intended to discriminate. Many owners do not speak English or other languages and worry that they may struggle to communicate effectively. The signs are often meant to avoid misunderstandings or complaints, not to exclude foreigners. However, this intent often doesn’t translate well to tourists and residents, which can cause unnecessary tension.

In short, foreigners are not “taking over”. They remain a small part of society, helping with essential jobs while respecting the culture, and most interactions in daily life are friendly and cooperative. Their presence helps communities by bringing new skills, perspectives, and cultural exchange.

Myth #2: “Foreigners will get special visas and havens in Japan.”

Recently, a significant misunderstanding arose regarding Japan’s immigration policies. A cultural exchange program with African countries was canceled after false claims spread online that it would result in a large influx of immigrants. The program, run by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), was meant to strengthen cultural and educational ties between Japan and the African nations of Mozambique, Nigeria, Ghana, and Tanzania. 

Misinformation caused public concern and influenced how the program was received, even though the goal was purely cultural and educational. There are strict rules for all foreign residents, which apply to local citizens too. No group receives special treatment or automatic protection. Everyone must follow the law, pay taxes, and contribute positively to society. 

In short, there are no special visas or safe havens given to non-citizens. Immigration policies are carefully designed to maintain social harmony and ensure fairness and equity. While there are prominent ethnic enclaves in cities like Tokyo, the notion that some individuals can obtain an easier visa or a more straightforward path to stay in the country is a myth. International residents contribute to society, but they do so under the same rules as everyone else.

Myth #3: “Japan is deporting all undocumented immigrants.”

With the new government, another misunderstanding spread widely on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). False claims circulated that the new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi had created a “ministry for mass deportations” to remove all undocumented immigrants from the country. One post about this claim was viewed over 8 million times. However, there is no evidence to support these statements. The Prime Minister’s Office has not announced any such ministry or policy.

While there are strict immigration laws in Japan, the idea that the government is deporting all undocumented immigrants is not accurate. Deportations are carried out in accordance with legal procedures. People who overstay their visas or break immigration laws may face deportation, but the process involves legal hearings and is not automatic. Authorities review each case individually, considering circumstances such as employment, family ties, or humanitarian reasons.

Misinformation like this can cause unnecessary fear among residents and create confusion for the public. It can also affect social trust and contribute to stereotypes about international residents. Official sources emphasize that the country remains committed to fairness and the rule of law, rather than taking extreme or sudden actions against immigrants.

In summary, the government is not mass deporting all undocumented immigrants. Foreign residents are subject to the same legal protections and responsibilities as local citizens. Overall, the country continues to handle immigration carefully, striking a balance between law enforcement and social harmony.

Why is it important to understand the truth surrounding immigration in Japan?

Understanding the truth about immigration in Japan is crucial because misunderstandings can foster unnecessary fear and disseminate false notions about international residents. In reality, foreigners make up a small part of the population, follow laws, and contribute to society through work, study, and cultural exchange. Immigration policies are fair and apply equally to everyone, while deportations are handled carefully and on a case-by-case basis. 

By understanding the facts, both locals and visitors can see that the country values harmony, cooperation, and mutual respect. Accurate information helps build trust, reduce stereotypes, and foster appreciation for the positive role foreigners play in local communities. Have you heard similar myths in your country? Let us know in the comments below!