United Kingdom Net Migration
Net migration SM.POP.NETM
United Kingdom's net migration was 389,911 in 2025, ranked 213th globally. This represents a 6.5% decrease from 2024. Data from World Bank, covering 1960–2025.
Overview
United Kingdom's net migration stood at 389,911 in 2025, a decline of +27,203 from 2024. Based on recent trends, this figure is projected to reach 375,701 by 2026. United Kingdom ranked 213th globally.
Net migration to the United Kingdom has risen sharply from a modest 19,953.00 in 1960 to 389,911.00 in 2025, placing the country 213th globally among 66 years of recorded data. The upward trajectory accelerated after a historic low of –83,876.00 in 1981, when the United Kingdom recorded its all‑time trough, and peaked at 487,029.00 in 2022, the highest level in the series. This recent peak exceeds the net inflow of peer Canada, which logged 326,204.00, and approaches the 421,693.00 recorded for the Syrian Arab Republic, underscoring the United Kingdom’s growing attractiveness as a destination for migrants. The sustained increase reflects demographic pressures, labor market demands and policy shifts that have broadened pathways for residence and work. If current immigration policies remain conducive and economic conditions stay favorable, net migration is likely to maintain its upward momentum, though any tightening of entry rules or adverse economic shocks could reverse the trend.
Data & projection
| Year | Net Migration | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028* trend | 332,495 | - | - |
| 2027* trend | 354,098 | - | - |
| 2026* trend | 375,701 | - | - |
| 2025 | 389,911 | −27,203 | #213 |
| 2024 | 417,114 | −28,409 | #213 |
| 2023 | 445,523 | −41,506 | #210 |
| 2022 | 487,029 | +24,062 | #209 |
| 2021 | 462,967 | +318,746 | #214 |
| 2020 | 144,221 | −88,506 | #205 |
| 2019 | 232,727 | −27,017 | #206 |
| 2018 | 259,744 | −12,567 | #205 |
| 2017 | 272,311 | −52,338 | #206 |
| 2016 | 324,649 | −23,190 | #209 |
| 2015 | 347,839 | +41,748 | #208 |
| 2014 | 306,091 | +68,819 | #208 |
| 2013 | 237,272 | +65,184 | #204 |
| 2012 | 172,088 | −56,685 | #202 |
| 2011 | 228,773 | −46,038 | #207 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
United Kingdom matched the Export Boom Cycle pattern in 1985. Historically, 71% of countries showing this pattern (546 out of 768) saw net migration improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
Frequently Asked Questions
United Kingdom's net migration was 389,911 in 2025. Ranked 213th globally. This represents a 6.5% decrease from the previous year.
United Kingdom's net migration peaked at 487,029 in 2022.
The lowest net migration in United Kingdom was -83,876 in 1981.
United Kingdom ranks 213th globally in net migration as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is SM.POP.NETM. Data sourced from World Bank.
United Kingdom's net migration is projected to reach 375,701 by 2026 based on trend extrapolation.
The net migration of United Kingdom in 2025 was 389,911. This ranks 213th in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_united-kingdom_net-migration,
title = {United Kingdom Net Migration},
url = {https://historysaid.com/united-kingdom/net-migration/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}