Discover which country offers the best lifestyle, earnings, and future for Nepalese living abroad.
Introduction
Where do Nepalese thrive abroad – Over the last few decades, millions of Nepalese have ventured abroad in search of better education, jobs, and futures for their families. From the snowy suburbs of Canada to the skyscrapers of Dubai, the Nepali diaspora has left its mark across the globe. But have you ever wondered where Nepalese people thrive the most?
In this blog, we take you through a detailed comparison of Nepalese living in six popular countries: Canada, USA, UK, Australia, Japan, and the UAE. Whether you’re planning to study, work, or migrate permanently, this guide will help you understand the lifestyle, job opportunities, visa paths, and challenges faced by the Nepali community abroad.
Nepalese in Canada
With over 100,000 Nepalese now calling Canada home, this North American country is one of the most sought-after destinations for education and permanent residency. The Express Entry PR system, world-class universities, and welcoming immigration policies make Canada ideal for skilled migrants and students alike.
- Popular Jobs: Healthcare (nurses), trucking, IT, factory work
- Cities with Large Nepali Communities: Toronto, Calgary, Brampton
- Pros: PR-friendly system, free healthcare, diverse society
- Cons: High cost of living, cold winters
Nepalese in Canada enjoy active community life, support from NRN-Canada, and a strong presence in both blue- and white-collar jobs.
Nepalese in the USA
The USA has one of the largest and oldest Nepalese populations, estimated at 200,000+. The country attracts a wide range of Nepalese — from DV lottery winners to STEM students and even entrepreneurs.
- Popular Jobs: IT professionals, gas station workers, Uber drivers, doctors
- Major Cities: New York, Texas, California, Ohio
- Pros: High income potential, top education system, diverse economy
- Cons: Complicated visa processes, expensive healthcare
Nepalese in the USA are known for their academic excellence and growing involvement in tech, healthcare, and small business. The Nepalese Embassy in the USA plays a key role in keeping harmony and being a guardian of Nepalese in the USA.
Nepalese in the UK
Home to a significant Gurkha population and second-generation Nepalese, the UK hosts over 100,000 Nepalese. Many came through family reunification, military links, or as healthcare workers.
- Popular Jobs: NHS nurses, retail staff, caregivers
- Nepali Hubs: Aldershot, London, Kent
- Pros: Free healthcare (NHS), Nepali cultural centers, student options
- Cons: High rent, stricter PR pathways post-Brexit
The UK offers a strong sense of community and heritage, especially for Gurkha families and students looking for higher education opportunities.
Nepalese in Australia
Australia has quickly become a favorite for Nepalese students and skilled migrants, with over 150,000+ Nepalese residing there. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne have growing Nepali populations supported by student networks and diaspora groups.
- Popular Jobs: Restaurant work, hospitality, aged care, trades
- Top Cities: Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane
- Pros: Education-to-PR pathways, multicultural society
- Cons: Cost of living, pressure on students to work part-time
Australia is especially attractive for young Nepalese looking to build a long-term future through education, jobs, and eventual PR. The Embassy of Nepal in Canberra serves as the primary diplomatic mission representing Nepal in Australia. It provides a range of consular services, including passport issuance, visa processing, document authentication, and support for Nepalese citizens residing in Australia.
Nepalese in Japan
Japan is emerging as a major destination for Nepalese, especially in the past decade. With over 150,000 Nepalese, it offers opportunities through language schools, student visas, and now the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa.
- Popular Jobs: Caregiving, factory work, food service
- Key Areas: Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka
- Pros: Low visa rejection, consistent job demand, good pay
- Cons: Language barrier, cultural adjustment, strict working hours
Japan is becoming a top remittance-generating country for Nepal, with strong growth in the younger workforce. Nepal and Japan share a longstanding and friendly relationship, officially established in 1956, characterized by strong cultural ties, significant development cooperation, and growing people-to-people exchanges.
Nepalese in UAE – The Reality Check
The UAE is home to the largest population of Nepalese outside of South Asia, estimated at 600,000+. It’s often the first choice due to quick visa processing and immediate job opportunities. But the majority of roles are in the labor, security, hospitality, and service sectors.
- Popular Jobs: Security guard, cleaner, driver, hotel staff
- Cities: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain
- Pros: Easy entry, high remittance, no income tax
- Cons: No PR options, job insecurity, limited rights
Though the UAE provides quick income opportunities, especially for low- to mid-skilled workers, it lacks long-term stability or migration paths. Nepalese in UAE are found to be in various businesses as well. There is huge potential in the UAE if you are looking to invest in the UAE to gain a more attractive ROI than in any other part of the world.
Final Comparison—Where do Nepalese thrive abroad?
| Country | Long-term Future | Earning Potential | Community Support | PR Opportunities | Student Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| USA | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| UK | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Australia | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Japan | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| UAE | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
Conclusion on Where do Nepalese thrive abroad
So, where should you go as a Nepalese seeking a better life? If you’re aiming for PR and long-term stability, Canada and Australia stand out. If your goal is quick income and remittance, UAE or Japan might suit better. For academic and professional excellence, the USA and UK are worth exploring.
No matter where you go, being informed is key. Migration isn’t just about earning—it’s about planning a future that fits your dream.