Which Country Has Won the Most Oscars Outside the USA?
While the United States dominates the Academy Awards, several other countries have made a big mark at the Oscars over the decades. From foreign-language films to international filmmakers, some countries have accumulated multiple Academy Awards and nominations.
This article answers the question: “Which country has won the most Oscars outside the USA?” and explores the top Oscar-winning nations.
Top Countries Winning Oscars Outside the USA
When considering Oscar wins outside the United States, the awards usually come in categories such as:
- Best International Feature Film (formerly Best Foreign Language Film)
- Documentary
- Technical and artistic awards
- Occasionally, acting awards for non-American performers
1. Italy – The Most Oscar-Winning Country Outside the USA
Italy holds the record for the most Oscars outside the United States, with more than 20 wins in total.
Highlights:
- Italian films have historically dominated the Best Foreign Language Film category.
- Notable Oscar-winning Italian films:
- La Strada (1956) – Best Foreign Language Film
- 8½ (1963) – Honorary Academy Award
- Life Is Beautiful (1999) – Best Actor, plus nominations in multiple categories
- Italian filmmakers such as Federico Fellini and actors like Roberto Benigni have gained international acclaim.
Italy’s success reflects its rich cinematic heritage and strong storytelling tradition.
2. France – A Close Competitor
France has won more than 10 Oscars, primarily in the Best International Feature Film category.
Highlights:
- French films like Amour (2012), The Artist (2011), and The Red Balloon (1956) earned Oscars.
- French filmmakers often receive recognition in technical and artistic categories as well.
3. Japan – Rising Global Recognition
Japan has won multiple Oscars, particularly in animation and foreign-language films:
- Rashomon (1950) – Honorary Academy Award
- Departures (2008) – Best Foreign Language Film
- Spirited Away (2003) – Best Animated Feature
Japan became the first Asian country to win Best Picture with a foreign-language film contender through Parasite’s director Bong Joon-ho collaboration influence (though Parasite is South Korean, it inspired global attention for Asian cinema).
4. Other Notable Countries
- Germany: The Tin Drum, All Quiet on the Western Front
- Sweden: Ingmar Bergman films, Fanny and Alexander
- Mexico: Recent dominance through directors like Alfonso Cuarón, Alejandro G. Iñárritu, and Guillermo del Toro
Why Italy Leads the Oscar Race Outside the USA
Italy’s success comes from:
- Strong international filmmaking since the 1950s
- Legendary directors like Federico Fellini and Vittorio De Sica
- Creative storytelling that resonates globally
- Consistent recognition in both competitive and honorary categories
Conclusion: Italy, the Non-American Oscar Leader
When it comes to Oscar wins outside the United States, Italy clearly holds the lead, thanks to decades of influential films and world-renowned filmmakers. France, Japan, Germany, and Mexico follow closely, showing that great storytelling knows no borders.
International cinema continues to shape the Academy Awards, proving that the Oscars are increasingly a global celebration of filmmaking.