Summary
Net migration to the UK in 2024 was cut in half compared to the previous year, with 431,000 more people arriving than leaving. This drop was mainly due to fewer people coming to work and study in the UK and a decrease in the number of family members arriving with them.
Key Facts
- Net migration in 2024 was 431,000, down from 860,000 in the previous year.
- The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported this as the largest numerical drop in net migration on record.
- The decrease was largely due to fewer people coming to the UK for work and study after changes by the previous government.
- There was a big reduction in dependents coming with those on work and study visas.
- Net migration also fell significantly during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic.
- The number of asylum seekers in UK hotels decreased but remains higher than before Labour took power.
- The Home Office is processing asylum claims more quickly, aiming to reduce the number of people in hotels.
- The UK government plans to further reduce net migration by implementing new measures outlined in the Immigration White Paper.
