Net migration to the United Kingdom has fallen by 20% in the year leading up to June 2024, with the total number dropping to 728,000, down from 906,000 in the previous year, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics. This decline is primarily due to the introduction of new visa restrictions by the UK government earlier in 2024.

The changes in immigration patterns are most noticeable among international students, with a sharp reduction in the number of dependents accompanying them. The new visa policies, including limits on dependents for study visas and care workers, have contributed to a 94,000 decrease in study visa applications when compared to the previous year.

While the number of skilled worker visa applications initially increased, it also fell after the UK government revised its list of eligible jobs in April 2024.

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The report further breaks down migration by region, showing that 86% of the 1.2 million migrants to the UK were from non-EU countries, while 10% were from the EU and 5% were British nationals. Among non-EU migrants, Indian nationals made up the largest group, migrating for both work and educational purposes.

At the same time, emigration from the UK has risen. By June 2024, 479,000 people had left the country, up from 414,000 the previous year. Of those who emigrated, 44% were EU nationals, 39% were from non-EU countries, and 16% were British citizens.