Net migration to the UK surged to more than 900,000 in the year leading up to June 2023, far exceeding earlier estimates, according to the latest official data. However, a sharp decline of 20% in migration numbers was recorded in 2024, following the implementation of stricter visa regulations.
The data, released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), revealed that net migration in the year to June 2024 stood at 728,000. This marked a significant decrease from the previous year’s figure, which had been revised upwards to 906,000, up from an initial estimate of 740,000.
The ONS attributed this decline primarily to a fall in long-term immigration, particularly a decrease in the number of dependents accompanying international students on study visas. As the UK government introduced tougher visa policies, including restrictions on the number of dependents allowed to join students and the number of individuals entering for educational purposes declined. This contributed to the overall drop in migration.
The sharp increase in 2023 was driven by a range of factors, including the ongoing impact of global events, such as the war in Ukraine, and the UK’s post-Brexit immigration policies, which made it easier for skilled workers and students to come to the country. However, the government’s new visa rules, aimed at reducing pressure on public services and housing, appear to have had an immediate impact on curbing these numbers.
