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UK Migration Hits 2.5 Million Amid Policy Changes

3/5/2026

38 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said net migration reached 2.5 million from 2021 to mid-2024, about one in 30 people and 3.6% of 69.5 million population.
Net migration peaked at 924,000 in June 2023 and fell to 204,000 by June 2025, linked to lifting Covid-19 travel restrictions and post-Brexit rules.
Amid anti-immigration sentiment, the government will end study visas for Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan due to surge in asylum claims.

History

Historical Context

The 2016 Brexit referendum, where 51.9% voted to leave the EU, marked a pivotal shift in UK immigration policy. Following the end of free movement in January 2021, net migration surged to 2.5 million, reflecting heightened anti-immigration sentiment. The government's recent decision to restrict study visas signals a move towards stricter immigration controls, reshaping the nation's demographic landscape.

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Story summary

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said net migration reached 2.5 million from 2021 to mid-2024, about one in 30 people and 3.6% of 69.5 million population.
Net migration peaked at 924,000 in June 2023 and fell to 204,000 by June 2025, linked to lifting Covid-19 travel restrictions and post-Brexit rules.
Amid anti-immigration sentiment, the government will end study visas for Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan due to surge in asylum claims.

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