Japan is one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian students. Japan offers education in a wide range of academic fields, and more and more Indian students are being attracted to Japan day by day. The governments of Japan and India are planning to implement a project to promote people-to-people exchanges that will bring more than 500,000 people to Japan over the next five years. The initiative aims to promote government, industry, research, and education cooperation, address Japan’s human resource problems, and take advantage of opportunities in India’s dynamic growth.
The agreement is likely to be finalized during the upcoming Friday, August 29, 2025, meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The initiative reflects Tokyo’s vision of harnessing India’s economic growth and skilled workforce to support Japan’s development, particularly in sectors facing talent shortages.
Opportunities for Skilled Professionals
With a population of over 1.4 billion and strong economic growth, India has a large pool of highly skilled professionals, especially in information technology (IT). Japan, facing labor shortages in its tech industry, plans to attract 50,000 skilled Indian workers to contribute their expertise. Since many English-speaking Indian professionals often choose North America or Europe, both governments will enhance Japanese language education in India and create a welcoming environment for these workers in Japan.
Academic and Research Collaboration
The plan also highlights the need to boost academic exchanges. Japan will seek to accept more Indian students and researchers and will also try to encourage Japanese students to study in India. According to the Japan Student Services Organization, only 1,685 Indian students were studying in Japan in 2024, compared with 123,485 students from China and 64,816 from Nepal. To cater to this, the governments will encourage student exchange programs and also support initiatives that help Indian students and professionals to find opportunities in Japan. Furthermore, joint cooperation in research between Japanese and Indian universities is to be promoted, and opportunities will be provided for young Indian researchers to come to Japan for academic exchange.
Studying in Japan: Affordable and Accessible
Mr. Salish Kumar Bhargava, Director of Crown Immigration, highlighted the opportunities for studying in Japan. He noted that tuition fees at Japanese universities are more affordable compared to those in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Students in Japan can work part-time for up to 28 hours per week, helping them manage their expenses. Additionally, students can bring their spouse and children to Japan. Mr. Bhargava added that Crown Immigration assists students from approximately 100 countries in pursuing higher education abroad, and Japan stands out as an excellent option due to its top-ranking universities and the ability for students to support their tuition through part-time work.
A Stronger Japan-India Partnership
This initiative aims to build a strong partnership by combining India’s talent and economic growth with Japan’s technological expertise. By promoting exchanges across various sectors, Japan and India hope to foster economic progress, innovation, and mutual understanding. This plan marks a significant step toward a brighter future for both nations.
FAQ: Studying and Working in Japan
1. What are the requirements to study in Japan?
Indian students need a high school diploma (for undergraduate programs) or a bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate programs), proof of funds, and a student visa. JLPT N5 or higher is recommended for non-English programs.
Indian students need a high school diploma (for undergraduate programs) or a bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate programs), proof of funds, and a student visa. JLPT N5 or higher is recommended for non-English programs.
2. How can Indian professionals work in Japan?
A job offer from a Japanese employer and a work visa (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities) are required. Knowledge of Japanese (JLPT N2–N3) is often preferred.
A job offer from a Japanese employer and a work visa (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities) are required. Knowledge of Japanese (JLPT N2–N3) is often preferred.
3. Are scholarships available for Indian students?
Yes, options like the MEXT Scholarship and JASSO scholarships cover tuition and living expenses for eligible students.
Yes, options like the MEXT Scholarship and JASSO scholarships cover tuition and living expenses for eligible students.
