Summary
The UK government plans to lower immigration numbers significantly, although these numbers remain high. Migration rates peaked recently but are expected to decrease, partially due to stricter entry rules. Immigration is linked to both economic growth and workforce needs, especially in sectors like health and social care.
Key Facts
- UK net migration hit a record 906,000 in the year ending June 2023 but fell to 728,000 by June 2024.
- The government plans to reduce annual net migration to about 315,000 by the end of Parliament.
- Most migrants come to the UK for work or study.
- Visa applications for health and social care jobs have decreased after rule changes.
- Economists are uncertain about the exact impact of immigration on economic growth per person.
- The UK labor market, especially social care, relies heavily on migrant workers.
- 131,000 vacancies in adult social care were reported in England in 2023.
- Low pay is a major barrier to recruiting UK workers for social care jobs.
