Bhutan Net Migration
Net migration SM.POP.NETM
Bhutan's net migration was 455 in 2025, ranked 145th globally. This represents a 264.3% increase from 2024. Data from World Bank, covering 1960–2025.
Overview
Bhutan's net migration stood at 455 in 2025, a rise of +732 from 2024. Based on recent trends, this figure is projected to reach 140 by 2026. Bhutan ranked 145th globally.
Bhutan recorded a net migration of 455.00 in 2025, ranking 145th globally, a figure comparable to that of New Caledonia, which stood at 440.00. Over a 66-year period since 1960, Bhutan’s migration trends have undergone dramatic shifts, beginning at 1,481.00 and peaking in 2002 with a net inflow of 3,996.00, likely reflecting regional labor dynamics and development initiatives. The most significant reversal occurred in 1992, when net migration plummeted to a historic low of –65,900.00, a sharp outflow that may be linked to sociopolitical upheavals and the emigration of the Lhotshampa community during that era. Since then, migration patterns have stabilized, with net flows remaining modest and positive in recent years. While current levels suggest a gradual return to equilibrium, the trajectory remains sensitive to domestic policy shifts, economic opportunities, and cross-border labor demands. A sustained increase in net migration would likely depend on expanded employment avenues and improved demographic resilience within Bhutan’s evolving socioeconomic landscape.
Data & projection
| Year | Net Migration | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028* trend | 93 | - | - |
| 2027* trend | 117 | - | - |
| 2026* trend | 140 | - | - |
| 2025 | 455 | +732 | #145 |
| 2024 | -277 | −568 | #117 |
| 2023 | 291 | +0 | #127 |
| 2022 | 291 | +4 | #120 |
| 2021 | 287 | +0 | #130 |
| 2020 | 287 | +0 | #128 |
| 2019 | 287 | +0 | #127 |
| 2018 | 287 | +0 | #119 |
| 2017 | 287 | −829 | #118 |
| 2016 | 1,116 | +666 | #129 |
| 2015 | 450 | −2 | #135 |
| 2014 | 452 | +143 | #133 |
| 2013 | 309 | +289 | #128 |
| 2012 | 20 | +484 | #124 |
| 2011 | -464 | +458 | #112 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
Bhutan matched the Export Boom Cycle pattern in 2007. Historically, 71% of countries showing this pattern (546 out of 768) saw net migration improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
Frequently Asked Questions
Bhutan's net migration was 455 in 2025. Ranked 145th globally. This represents a 264.3% increase from the previous year.
Bhutan's net migration peaked at 3,996 in 2002.
The lowest net migration in Bhutan was -65,900 in 1992.
Bhutan ranks 145th globally in net migration as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is SM.POP.NETM. Data sourced from World Bank.
Bhutan's net migration is projected to reach 140 by 2026 based on trend extrapolation.
The net migration of Bhutan in 2025 was 455. This ranks 145th in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_bhutan_net-migration,
title = {Bhutan Net Migration},
url = {https://historysaid.com/bhutan/net-migration/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}