Summary
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer says migration numbers will decrease with new immigration rules, including English tests and a longer route to settled status. Recent data shows net migration to the UK was 728,000 in the year to June 2024, down from 906,000 the previous year. Changes in visa rules for work and study will also affect the number of people coming to the UK.
Key Facts
- Net migration to the UK was 728,000 in the year to June 2024.
- The Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimates that 1.2 million people came to the UK in the same period.
- Of these, 86% were non-EU nationals.
- 82% of the non-EU newcomers were of working age.
- The number of student visas issued in 2024 was 393,125, a 14% drop from the previous year.
- Since April 2024, job applicants in the UK need to have a job offer with a salary of at least £38,700.
- Family visas issued increased by 7% to 86,000 in 2024.
- Family visa applicants must show good English skills and meet income requirements.
