In recent years, the UK has seen notable shifts in its immigration trends, with a 20% decline in net migration for the year ending June 2024. According to official data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), net migration dropped from 906,000 in June 2023 to 728,000 by June 2024. Despite this decline, one group continues to stand out—Indians. Indians remain the largest non-EU nationality entering the UK, leading both the work- and study-visa categories, highlighting the ongoing strength of Indian immigration to the UK.
India has firmly established itself as the top source country for non-EU immigration to the UK. As of June 2024, a total of 240,000 Indian nationals immigrated to the UK for long-term stays. This includes both work-related migration and student visas, with Indians accounting for 116,000 work-related entries and 127,000 study-related entries.
The UK continues to be a preferred destination for Indian students, especially at the postgraduate level. The introduction of the Graduate Route visa in 2021 has made the UK even more attractive, allowing international students to stay for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after completing their studies. This post-study work option has been a game-changer, enabling students to gain valuable work experience and contribute to the UK’s economy while pursuing their career aspirations.
Indian students make up a significant proportion of those benefiting from this policy, helping UK universities recover from financial strains caused by the global pandemic and expanding their research capacity. It’s worth noting that Indian students have one of the lowest "early leaver" rates, meaning they are more likely to stay and contribute to the UK’s society and economy in the long term.
The UK also continues to benefit from the influx of highly skilled workers from India. Indians are filling key roles in sectors such as IT, healthcare, engineering, and finance, providing essential expertise that supports the UK’s growing economy. With 116,000 work visas granted to Indian nationals in the year ending June 2024, Indians are helping drive innovation, bolster critical industries, and strengthen the UK labor market.
Despite a reduction in overall immigration numbers, the role of Indian immigrants in the UK is undeniably positive. They contribute significantly to both the UK’s education sector and its workforce. Indian nationals are not only helping to fill labor gaps but are also enriching the cultural and academic landscape of the country. Their contributions are invaluable, whether in the classroom, the boardroom, or healthcare settings.
As an immigration expert, I firmly believe that the UK remains one of the best countries to immigrate to from India—whether for students or skilled workers. For students, the UK offers world-class education, vibrant student communities, and post-graduation opportunities that enable career growth and global exposure. The UK’s Graduate Route visa provides an added layer of security for students seeking to gain work experience after their studies, making it an attractive option for those looking to build a future.
For skilled professionals, the UK’s demand for expertise across various sectors—particularly in technology, healthcare, and engineering—presents an excellent opportunity for career advancement. The UK’s highly developed infrastructure, diverse work environment, and strong economy make it a welcoming and thriving destination for Indian talent.
In conclusion, despite the slight dip in overall immigration figures, the positive trend of Indian immigration to the UK remains strong. Indian students and skilled workers continue to make significant contributions to the UK, and I believe this relationship will only grow stronger in the coming years. The UK remains an exceptional destination for Indian nationals looking to study, work, and thrive in a globalized world.
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