In the past year, fewer migrants moved to the UK compared to earlier years. Official data shows 1.2 million people came to stay for at least a year up to June 2024, but 479,000 left, resulting in net migration of about 721,000. This number dropped from 906,000 in June 2023, showing a clear decline in migration.
How Many People Move to the UK?
- Net Migration: The difference between the number of people entering and leaving the UK was 721,000. Previously, it was 906,000.
- Among the arrivals:
- 86% were non-EU nationals (around 1 million people).
- 82% of non-EU arrivals were of working age.
- Indian nationals were the largest group arriving for work and study purposes.
| Category | Number of Arrivals |
|---|---|
| Total arrivals | 1.2 million |
| EU nationals | Around 116,000 |
| Non-EU nationals | 1 million |
| Indians among non-EU migrants | Majority (845,000 working age) |
Changes in UK Student and Graduate Visas
New UK immigration rules now limit students more strictly. In 2024:
- 393,125 student visas were issued, down by 14% from the previous year.
- Postgraduate students cannot bring family unless they study research programs.
- Graduate visa holders can work in the UK for two years after their studies, three years for doctoral graduates.
Salary Requirements for Work Visas
The UK government raised the minimum salary requirement for work visas significantly:
- New salary threshold: £38,700 (previously £26,200).
- Some jobs, including health care and teaching, are exempt from these rules.
UK Immigration Salary List
The UK replaced the old shortage occupation list with the new immigration salary list, making certain jobs easier to obtain a visa for:
- Jobs include health care, pharmacy, graphic designers, construction, and veterinary professionals.
- The earlier rule allowing paying foreign workers 80% of the usual rate has ended since April 2024.
Seasonal Worker Visa Rules
Temporary visas for seasonal jobs, such as agriculture, are strictly controlled:
- Total quota: 45,000 visas annually (43,000 horticulture, 2,000 poultry).
- Workers can stay up to six months but cannot bring family members or switch to permanent visas.
Family Visas: New Income Requirements
To bring family to the UK, the sponsor now must meet higher income criteria:
- Income threshold raised from £18,600 to £29,000 (initially planned as £38,700).
- In 2024, 86,000 family-related visas were issued, up 7% from the previous year.
Why are these Immigration Changes Happening?
The UK aims to control its population growth. By limiting visas, especially for non-EU nationals, the UK government tries to balance immigration with local economic and social needs. The current net migration is likely to increase the UK’s population to about 72.5 million in the future, prompting stricter rules.
Key FAQs:
Can students bring dependents?
Only postgraduate research students can bring dependants.
Are seasonal workers eligible for long-term stay?
No, they must leave after their seasonal job ends.
Who is exempt from new salary rules?
Health workers, social care workers, and teachers.
How long can graduate visa holders stay?
2 years, or 3 years for PhD graduates.
Understanding these changes can help prospective migrants and families plan better when considering moving to the UK.