Migration in Europe

2- Total number of Immigrant Population in EU

In 2021, 2.3 million immigrants came to the EU from non-EU countries. This is an increase of nearly 18% compared with 1.9 million in 2020, but still below the pre-COVID-19 level of 2.7 million in 2019. In 21 out of 27 EU countries, 50% or more immigrants came from outside the EU in 2021.

In absolute numbers, the most popular countries of destination for immigrants from outside the EU in 2021. In the same year, about 1.1 million people emigrated from the EU to a non-EU country. This is also an increase compared with 956 000 people in 2020, and almost back to the pre-COVID-19 level of 1.2 million.

At EU level, the difference between the number of immigrants and emigrants resulted in a positive net migration in 2021, meaning that over 1 million more people moved to the EU than moved out.

2.1- Distribution of Immigrant Population Across EU Countries in 2022

In 2022, the EU saw significant international migration with 7.0 million arrivals from non-EU countries and internal EU movements combined. This included 5.1 million immigrants from non-EU countries and 1.9 million intra-EU movers. Germany reported the highest total immigration with 2.1 million newcomers, followed by Spain (1.3 million), France, and Italy (both 0.4 million each). In terms of emigration, Germany and Spain led with 533,500 and 531,900 departures respectively. Compared to 2021, most EU countries experienced increased immigration, notably Czechia (401%), Latvia (205%), and Germany (137%).

2.2-Mobility of EU Citizens

The freedom of movement within the European Union allows EU citizens to live and work in any member state. This has led to significant numbers of EU citizens residing outside their country of nationality, contributing to cultural exchange, economic integration, and demographic diversity across the EU.

Romanians have consistently been the largest group of EU citizens residing in other EU countries between 2016 and 2023. In 2022, Romania maintained its position with the highest number of its nationals living in other EU member states, totaling 3.1 million people or 24% of all EU citizens residing as non-nationals in another EU country. Poland and Italy followed closely with 1.5 million citizens each, representing 11% of the EU citizens residing abroad within the EU during the same year.

4- First Instance Asylum Decisions

The European Union experienced a significant number of asylum applications and decisions, reflecting the ongoing humanitarian needs driven by global conflicts and crises.

From 2020 to 2023, the EU witnessed a significant increase in asylum applications and decisions. In 2020, approximately 650,000 asylum decisions were made, with 250,000 granting protection status to asylum seekers, predominantly Syrians, Afghans, and Venezuelans. By 2023, asylum decisions rose to about 900,000, with 330,000 granting protection, showing a steady increase. Syrians, Afghans, and Venezuelans remained the primary beneficiaries of protection statuses, reflecting ongoing global conflicts and crises.

5- Rejections of Entry for Non-EU Citizens into the EU

Between 2020 and 2023, the European Union faced rising numbers of non-EU citizens found to be illegally present. The most significant increase occurred in 2022, driven by heightened migratory pressures and enhanced detection capabilities. Syrians, Afghans, and Moroccans consistently represented the largest groups of those found to be illegally present, influenced by conflicts, economic conditions, and migration routes. Hungary emerged as a key country in detecting illegal presence, alongside Germany and Italy, reflecting their strategic roles in EU migration dynamics.

In 2022, around 1.1 million non-EU citizens were found to be illegally present in the EU. This is an increase of 65% compared with 2021. Among the EU countries, the largest number of illegally present people was found in Hungary.

5.1- Orders for Non-EU Citizens to Depart from the EU

In 2020,approximately 396,000 non-EU citizens received an order to leave an EU country. Top Countries Issuing Orders: France (118,000 or 30% of the EU total), Germany (38,000 or 10%), and Spain (33,000 or 8%). Main Nationalities: Algerians (32,000), Moroccans (29,000), and Albanians (24,000),About 62,000 non-EU citizens were returned to countries outside the EU.

In 2023,Preliminary estimates indicate around 460,000 orders to leave were issued. Top Countries Issuing Orders: France (140,000 or 30%), Germany (50,000 or 11%), Croatia (45,000 or 10%), and Greece (38,000 or 8%). Main Nationalities: Algerians (36,000), Moroccans (34,000), and Pakistanis (27,000).

From 2020 to 2023, the EU saw a notable rise in the number of orders to leave and returns of non-EU citizens. The most significant increase occurred in 2022, coinciding with enhanced post-pandemic enforcement measures and return operations. France consistently issued the highest number of orders and facilitated the most returns, while Algerians, Moroccans, and Pakistanis were the largest groups receiving orders to leave. The data reflects ongoing efforts to manage irregular migration and enforce return decisions effectively across EU member states.

6- Conclusion

The migration landscape in the European Union (EU) is characterized by complex and evolving patterns that reflect broader global migration trends. These patterns are influenced by a myriad of factors, including economic conditions, political stability, social networks, and legislative frameworks both within and outside the EU. Analyzing the data from recent years provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of immigration and its implications for EU member states and their societies.

Migration to the EU is driven by a combination of push and pull factors that shape the motivations and routes of migrants. Economic disparities between EU member states and non-EU countries remain a significant pull factor. High-income EU countries offer better job opportunities, higher wages, and enhanced social security, making them attractive destinations for migrants seeking improved living standards. For instance, countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden have consistently attracted a large number of economic migrants due to their robust economies and favorable labor markets.