Indians Remain Largest Non-EU Migrant Group In UK
New data for the year ending June 2025 shows that citizens of India are the largest non-EU nationality immigrating to the United Kingdom. Among non-EU arrivals, Indians outnumbered other nationalities in long-term immigration.
Emigration Also High Among Indians
At the same time, Indians also topped the list of non-EU nationals leaving the UK. Approximately 74,000 Indians—mainly students and workers—departed the country during the same period. The increase in departures follows reductions in work- and study-related immigration, partly influenced by tighter UK visa and immigration policies.
Migration Trends Reflect Policy Impact
Overall net migration to the UK dropped significantly in 2025. The fall is attributed to fewer entries for study and work visas, decline in dependents joining main visa holders, and a rise in emigration. Despite these shifts, India remains the most common non-EU country of origin among both immigrants and emigrants.
Implications for UK and Indian Communities
For the UK, the migration data signals a changing demographic — fewer foreign students and workers staying long-term and a smaller inflow than in previous years. For many Indians abroad, increased departures reflect changing economic opportunities, visa uncertainty or policy changes in host countries.
