UK Immigration Statistics: EEA migration at its lowest for 5 Years as non-EEA migration rises

According to the most recent UK Immigration statistics published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), net EEA migration has fallen over the last year and is at its lowest since 2012. Consequently, non-EEA migration in the past year has risen with far more non-EEA nationals coming to the UK than EEA citizens. Nonetheless, the number of EEA nationals who are coming to the UK is still greater than the numbers leaving the UK and these trends could be down to many contributing factors.

UK Immigration Statistics: EEA migration

Recent ONS data has highlighted that in the year to September 2017, net EEA migration to the UK has fallen by 75,000 to less than 100,000, the lowest it has been in 5 years. This is because there are fewer EU nationals coming to the UK, as well as the number of EU nationals leaving the UK has increased. It has also been noted that the number of EEA nationals who are coming to the UK for work related purposes has fallen. The uncertainty of Brexit could well be a factor in the decision to move to or from the UK, but the decision to migrate is complicated and can be influenced by a range of factors. However, despite the decrease in EEA migration over this past year, there are still more EU citizens coming to the UK than leaving the UK.

UK Immigration Statistics: non-EEA migration

As a likely direct result of the increased number of EEA nationals leaving the UK, the number of non-EEA applications has risen in the last year. ONS data reveals during the year to September 2017, non-EEA net migration is at 205,000 which is an increase of 40,000 from the previous year and at similar levels which were seen in early 2016.

In terms of non-EEA migration, Tier 4 Students are seen to make up a large portion of these figures. This however feeds into the long running debate as to whether international students should be included within the UK’s net migration figure. Interestingly, whilst the overall increase in immigration, which is up 26,000, is not statistically significant, the increase seen for Asian nationals arriving to the UK was statistically significant.

Overall net migration over the past decade has ranged from a low of 154,000 in 2012 to a high of 336,000 in 2015.

What do these UK Immigration Statistics mean for migrants wishing to come to the UK?

The UK’s Immigration Minister, Caroline Nokes, has welcomed these latest figures as a step towards achieving the Government’s target of less than 100,000. Yet, these latest statistics have revealed that there are 244,000 more migrants arriving in the UK than leaving the UK, thus still adding to the UK’s population, the Government’s hostile immigration policy is unlikely to subsist any time soon. Therefore in order to successfully apply for a UK visa, Applicants are advised to contact our specialist Immigration Team. Our Immigration Team have an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the UK’s Immigration Rules and EEA Regulations and can assist in preparing strong applications in order to give them the greatest chance of success given the current UK immigration climate.

Using Legal Representation to Apply for a UK Immigration Application

Legal representatives, such as our specialist immigration and visa law firm, are qualified to advise you on immigration law and your immigration status. It is possible to instruct an immigration and visa legal representative to submit a UK Immigration application.

Caseworkers at the Home Office are trained to reject applications which are improperly prepared, for example by failing to provide the correct supporting evidence. In order to ensure your application succeeds, all necessary documents must be provided.

This can be a significant administrative task and you will need to submit the correct documentary evidence. The UK Immigration Rules are complex and a legal representative can help ensure that your application meets the Immigration Rules.

Successful UK Immigration Applications

Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your immigration status and the merit of your visa and immigration application before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation of your immigration and visa application and ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.

We are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients.  We are minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.

Preparation is the key to successful immigration applications. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation.

Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.

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