According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the top 5 non-EU countries of origin for migrants to the UK in the year ending June 2024 were:
1. India: With approximately 240,000 migrants, India was the most common nationality for non-EU immigration to the UK. Indians were the top nationality for both work-related (116,000) and study-related (127,000) reasons.
2. Nigeria: Nigeria was the second most common nationality, with around 120,000 migrants. Nigerian nationals have consistently featured among the top countries of origin for migrants to the UK in recent years.
3. Pakistan: Pakistan ranked third, with approximately 101,000 migrants. Pakistani nationals have also been among the top countries of origin for migrants to the UK in recent years.
4. China: China was the fourth most common nationality, with around 78,000 migrants. Chinese nationals have been attracted to the UK for various reasons, including study and work opportunities.
5. Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe rounded out the top 5, with approximately 36,000 migrants. Zimbabwean nationals have faced various challenges in their home country, leading some to seek opportunities in the UK.
These countries of origin reflect a broader trend of increasing migration to the UK from non-EU+ countries. In the year ending June 2024, non-EU+ nationals accounted for around 86% of total immigration to the UK, with EU nationals making up 10% and British nationals accounting for 5%.
The reasons for migration to the UK vary among non-EU nationals. According to the ONS, the most common reasons for migration are
- Work-related reasons: 40% of migrants migrated to the UK for work-related reasons, with many coming as main applicants or dependants.
- Study-related reasons: 36% of non EU natioals migrate to the UK for study-related reasons, with many coming as main applicants or dependants.
- Asylum: 8% of non EU nationals claimed asylum in the UK, often after arriving via irregular routes such as small boats.
The UK's migration trends are influenced by various factors, including changes in immigration rules, economic conditions, and global events. The ONS projects that net migration will decrease in the coming years, driven by a decline in long-term immigration and an increase in long-term emigration. However, the UK's population is still expected to grow due to migration, with the ONS projecting around 4.5 million net migrants over the next 12 years.
Page Manager
