- Foreign employment in Japan reached a record high of over 2.5 million in 2025, demonstrating increasing labor shortages.
- Vietnamese workers comprise the largest group of foreign nationals employed, followed by Chinese and Filipino workers.
- The medical, welfare, accommodation, and construction sectors experienced the most significant increases in foreign worker numbers.

A: Hey! Did you hear about the news?

B: No, what happened?

A: Apparently, more foreigners are working in Japan than ever before!

B: Wow, really? That’s a lot! How many?

A: Over 2.5 million! It’s the highest number they've ever recorded.

B: Crazy! That’s a big jump from last year, isn’t it?

A: Totally! It’s up by over 268,000 people!

B: Who are most of these workers?

A: Mostly Vietnamese, then Chinese, and people from the Philippines, Nepal, and Indonesia.

B: Makes sense, lots of people looking for opportunities.

A: Exactly! And some industries *really* need the help.

B: Like what kind of industries?

A: Healthcare and social care are booming with foreign workers! Also restaurants, hotels, and construction.

B: Oh, I can imagine! Those jobs can be tough to fill.

A: Yeah, foreigners now make up over 4% of Japan's workforce!

B: That’s pretty significant!

A: The government wants to make sure they have good working conditions too.



B: That’s good to hear! Hopefully things will keep improving!