Recent data indicates a sharp decline in net migration over the past year.
Statistics from the Office for National Statistics reveal that net migration dropped to 204,000 in the year leading up to June, a significant decrease from the previous figure of 649,000. Concurrently, a Home Office report highlights a surge in asylum claims and an increase in individuals housed in hotels.
The UK has witnessed a rise in the number of individuals being deported, including more than 150 small boat arrivals who were detained and sent back to France. Here are some of the key findings from the latest data release.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) disclosed today that long-term net migration fell to 204,000 in the year up to June, down from 649,000 in the prior year, indicating a positive development that may benefit Keir Starmer.
An estimated 898,000 individuals migrated to the UK during that period, marking a decline of 401,000 compared to the previous 12 months. Additionally, 693,000 people departed the country in the same timeframe.
Among the long-term migrants to the UK, approximately 75%, or around 670,000 individuals, were non-EU nationals. British nationals accounted for 143,000, while 85,000 were from EU countries.
Following the end of free movement in 2020, the number of individuals from the EU+ area, comprising the 27 European Union members along with Norway and Switzerland, has decreased. The top five non-EU+ nationalities arriving in the UK were Indian, Chinese, Pakistani, Nigerian, and Nepalese, with many arriving on study visas.
Notably, Romanians constituted the largest group among EU+ nationals, followed by individuals from Italy, Ireland, France, and Poland.
The Labour party has promised to reduce net migration levels. Recently, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced changes to settlement regulations, including regular reviews for individuals with refugee status every 30 months.
Home Office data released today indicates that 111,000 individuals sought asylum in the year ending September 2025, marking a 13% increase from the previous year and surpassing the previous peak of 103,000 in 2002.
Of the asylum claimants, half entered through illegal channels, such as small boats, while 38% had previously arrived in the UK on visas or with other forms of leave. In the year ending June 2025, the UK ranked fifth in the EU+ in terms of the number of asylum seekers, trailing behind Germany, Spain, Italy, and France.
Figures reveal a 13% increase in the number of asylum seekers temporarily accommodated in UK hotels over three months, with 36,273 individuals awaiting asylum decisions in September.
The Home Office spokesperson emphasized the intention to close all asylum hotels, stating that efforts are underway to relocate illegal migrants to military bases to alleviate community pressures. Recent reforms aim to enhance border control and restore order amidst escalating immigration challenges.
In the year leading up to September, there were 9,400 enforced returns, marking a 22% rise compared to the previous year. Albanians were the most prevalent nationality among returnees, with a notable increase in the number of foreign national offenders being deported.
The government’s recent agreement with France on returns has resulted in the detention and deportation of 153 small boat arrivals. Border Security Minister Alex Norris emphasized efforts to streamline the removal of illegal migrants without proper authorization.
During the same period, 134,000 initial decisions were made, reflecting a 31% annual increase, with nearly half resulting in approvals. This approval rate has slightly declined from the previous year.