UK net migration fell to 171,000 in the 12 months ending December 2025, the lowest level since 2012 excluding the COVID period [1, 2, 3]. This marks a sharp decline from 331,000 in 2024 and a peak of 944,000 in 2023 [1, 2, 3]. The main factor behind the drop was a 47% fall in non-EU nationals arriving for work-related reasons [2, 3].
The UK government implemented tighter immigration rules from 2024, including raising the salary thresholds for skilled worker visas and banning dependents for most international students, which contributed to fewer arrivals [1, 2]. Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood said, "We will always welcome those who contribute to this country and wish to build a better life here. But we must restore order and control to our borders. The government’s new skills-based migration would reward contribution and end reliance on 'cheap overseas workers'" [1].
Net migration of EU nationals remained negative at around -42,000, continuing the trend since mid-2022 [2]. Meanwhile, net migration of British nationals stayed broadly stable at negative 136,000, indicating more British citizens left the country than returned [2].
Employers and economists have expressed concern that falling migration is causing labour shortages in sectors such as care and hospitality [1]. Small boat arrivals increased 3% in the year to March 2026, with 39,271 arrivals recorded [3]. However, the number of asylum seekers fell 12%, and fewer asylum seekers were housed in hotels, declining by one-third over the same period [3].
Home Secretary Mahmood highlighted the drop, saying, "Net migration down 82%. Net migration is now at 171,000, down from a high of 944,000 under the Conservatives. This Government is restoring order and control to our borders" [3].
The decline in net migration follows a record peak of 944,000 in 2023 before the tighter immigration policies took effect in 2024 [1, 2, 3]. Small boat arrivals and asylum seeker numbers will continue to be monitored as the government manages border controls and migration flows [3].
