Decline in Net Immigration
The UK has witnessed a significant decline in net immigration, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). For the year ending June 2024, net immigration fell by 20%, with 728,000 immigrants compared to 906,000 in the previous year. This marked reduction highlights a shift in migration patterns, influenced by evolving policies and global factors.
Indian Nationals Dominate Non-EU Migration
Indians continue to lead as the largest group of non-EU migrants to the UK in both study and work visa categories. As of June 2024, 240,000 Indians migrated to the UK for long-term purposes. This trend underlines India’s prominent role in the UK’s immigration landscape.
Educational migration from India remains particularly noteworthy. A report from the UK Parliament highlighted that India sent the most students to the UK in 2021/22, with 126,600 entrants recorded in 2022/23. This number is a remarkable tenfold increase compared to 2017/18, showcasing the growing preference of Indian students for UK universities.
Signs of a Decline in International Student Numbers
Despite India’s continued dominance in student migration, recent data suggests a downturn in international student numbers overall. The number of student visas granted hit a record high of 484,000 in 2022 but fell by 5% in 2023. In August 2024, traditionally a peak month for student visa applications, numbers were 17% lower than in 2023.
A report from an international enrolment platform revealed that postgraduate entrants in January 2024 dropped by approximately one-third, indicating a broader shift in the dynamics of international education.
Stricter Immigration Policies on the Horizon
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed dissatisfaction with high immigration figures, particularly the 906,000 arrivals in the year ending June 2023. Starmer criticized the Conservative Party for failing to control migration numbers, stating, “This happened by design, not accident.” He has pledged to introduce stricter immigration measures to address the issue.
Factors Behind the Migration Decline
ONS Director of Population Statistics, Mary Gregory, attributed the recent fall in migration to fewer international students bringing dependents to the UK. Gregory noted that migration patterns since 2021 have been shaped by factors such as the Ukraine war, post-Brexit immigration policies, and a surge in study-related migration following pandemic-era travel restrictions.
This evolving immigration landscape underscores the UK’s shifting policies and priorities as it adapts to global and domestic challenges.
