Migration’s Impact on the EU Population: Key Trends and Figures
The number of non-EU citizens residing in the European Union surged by 2.3 million in 2023, with Ukrainians, Turks, and Moroccans forming the largest groups. As of early 2024, approximately 44.7 million individuals born outside the EU were living within its member states.
Countries with the Highest Share of Foreign-Born Residents
Luxembourg holds the highest proportion of immigrants, with foreign-born individuals making up 51% of its total population. Following closely are:
- Malta at 30.8%
- Cyprus at 26.9%
- Ireland at 22.6%
Countries with the Lowest Share of Foreign-Born Residents
At the other end of the spectrum, foreign-born populations represent less than 5% of the population in several Eastern European nations:
- Poland: 2.6%
- Romania: 3.1%
- Bulgaria: 3.3%
- Slovakia: 3.9%
Trends Over the Past Decade
Between 2014 and 2024, most EU countries experienced an increase in the proportion of foreign-born residents. However, Latvia and Greece were exceptions, both registering declines.
Demographic Shifts and Age Distribution
Non-EU citizens living in the EU tend to be younger than their native-born counterparts. The median age for immigrants in the EU was 43.1 years, compared to 45.1 years for those born within the EU.
However, some countries show an opposite trend, with foreign-born populations having a higher proportion of individuals aged 65 and older. This is particularly evident in:
- Estonia
- France
- Croatia
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Poland
- Slovakia
Where Do Most Foreign-Born Residents Live?
The largest foreign-born populations are concentrated in the EU’s largest economies:
- Germany: 16.9 million
- France: 9.3 million
- Spain: 8.8 million
- Italy: 6.7 million
Migration Drivers
Migration to the EU is driven by a complex mix of economic opportunities, environmental challenges, political instability, and social factors. As migration trends continue to shape the EU’s demographic landscape, understanding these shifts is essential for policymakers and society alike.