UK net migration falls to 171,000 in year to December 2025

Net migration to the United Kingdom fell sharply to 171,000 in the year ending December 2025, nearly half the revised figure of 331,000 from the previous year, according to new data from the Office for National Statistics. This represents the lowest level of net migration since early 2021, when the post-Brexit immigration system was introduced and pandemic travel restrictions were in effect.

The decline is primarily attributed to a significant drop in the number of people arriving from outside the European Union for work-related reasons. Overall, an estimated 813,000 people immigrated to the UK in the year to June 2025, while 642,000 emigrated. The statistics body noted that emigration levels have remained relatively stable.

The data also revealed a net outflow of British and EU citizens. An estimated 246,000 British nationals left the UK in 2025, compared to 110,000 who arrived. Similarly, more EU-plus nationals emigrated (118,000) than immigrated (76,000). By contrast, net migration from non-EU countries was positive, with 627,000 arrivals against 278,000 departures.

Officials link the falling numbers to a series of policy changes enacted since 2024. These include restrictions...