A significant decrease of around two-thirds in net migration has been reported over the span of a year.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the latest data indicates a sharp decline in long-term net migration to 204,000 in the year leading up to June. This figure is notably lower than the previous year’s 649,000, marking a positive development that could be advantageous for Keir Starmer.
Statistical analysis reveals that 898,000 individuals migrated to the UK during that period, which is a decrease of 401,000 compared to the preceding 12 months. Simultaneously, 693,000 individuals exited the country within the same timeframe.
Labour has made commitments to reduce net migration levels. Recently, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood introduced changes to settlement regulations, including regular reviews every 30 months for individuals with refugee status.
Mahmood emphasized, “Net migration has reached its lowest point in five years, having decreased by more than two-thirds under the current government. However, further actions are necessary due to the strain that migration’s pace and volume have placed on local communities.
“In response, I introduced modifications to our migration system to ensure that newcomers contribute positively and give more than they receive.”
Of the long-term migrants in the UK, an estimated 75% – approximately 670,000 individuals – originated from non-EU countries. British nationals accounted for about 143,000, while EU nationals numbered around 85,000.
Newly released Home Office data indicates that 111,000 individuals sought asylum in the year ending September 2025, marking a 13% increase from the previous year and surpassing the prior peak of 103,000 in 2002.
Mahmood expressed concerns over illegal immigration, stating that it is causing division in the country. She pledged to intensify removal efforts, even targeting families with children. Additionally, she outlined a series of measures to ensure individuals “earn” the right to permanent settlement.
Contrary to public perception influenced by persistent negative narratives, Ipsos/British Future Immigration Attitudes Tracker revealed that net migration actually decreased significantly in the past year.
Sunder Katwala, from the immigration think tank British Future, highlighted, “Despite a substantial decline in net migration, public perception indicates a belief in increasing immigration rates, reflecting a disconnect with reality.
“The ongoing reduction in immigration has largely gone unnoticed in British political discourse. Net migration has plummeted by two-thirds in the past year and by three-quarters since the peak following the Covid-19 pandemic. It is imperative that our immigration dialogue aligns with the actual situation.
“While some voices advocate for net zero immigration, they do not represent the majority of