International Definition of Immigration and Japan’s Reality | How to Read the Data

International Definition of “Immigration” and Japan’s Current Reality (How to Read the Numbers)

The term “immigration” is used widely in politics, media, and social platforms. Confusion often happens because international statistical definitions and Japan’s residence-status terminology do not perfectly align.

This article summarizes common international definitions (e.g., UN frameworks) and explains Japan’s current situation using the indicators Japan actually tracks (foreign residents / residence statuses).

1. International definitions used in statistics

(1) The core concept: changing “usual residence” across borders

In international statistics, an international migrant is often understood as someone who crosses a border and changes their country of usual residence. A widely used benchmark is the 12-month threshold (long-term migration).

• Long-term migrant: intends to reside in the new country for 12 months or more
• Short-term migrant: resides for 3 to 12 months (with exclusions depending on the framework)

(2) Practical indicators: foreign-born vs foreign nationals

In practice, “foreign-born” and “foreign nationals” are also used as indicators. Each has strengths/limitations (e.g., naturalization affects nationality-based counts), so the right indicator depends on the discussion purpose.

2. Japan’s current reality: not always labeled “immigration,” but long-term residence is increasing

(1) Japan’s core indicator: foreign residents (mid-to-long-term residents, etc.)

Japan commonly describes the reality through administrative categories such as foreign residents (mid-to-long-term residents plus special permanent residents, etc.). Recent figures have reached record highs. For example, 3,956,619 foreign residents were reported as of end-June 2025.

(2) Don’t mix “residents” and “workers” in one number

A common source of confusion is mixing “foreign residents” (residence-based categories) and “foreign workers” (employment-based counts). They are different populations and follow different counting rules.

Japan’s “foreign residents statistics” framework can also be checked via e-Stat.

(3) Work-related statuses are expanding (e.g., Specified Skilled Worker)

Japan has expanded work-related pathways in response to labor shortages. For example, the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) population was reported at 336,196 as of end-June 2025.

3. Key takeaways (3 rules to avoid misunderstandings)

1. For international comparisons, use the 12-month “usual residence” concept
2. In Japan, explain reality using the legal/administrative terms (residence statuses, foreign residents)
3. Keep residence-based and employment-based statistics separate

Related pages (Tommy’s Legal Service)

• Immigration Inquiry (English)
• FAQ (English)
• Latest Updates on the SSW Visa Program (English)
• Immigration Service (JP top)

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements vary depending on individual circumstances.