Home Office Study Finds Lower-Paid Migrants More Likely to Remain in UK

A Home Office study conducted by the Migration Advisory Committee found that migrant workers earning lower wages were more likely to settle permanently in the UK than those with the highest salaries. The analysis reviewed just under one million migrant journeys over the decade ending in 2024.

Care workers showed among the highest rates of remaining in the country, while academics and scientists were more likely to leave after five years.

Migrants from countries including Nigeria, Ghana, and Bangladesh stayed longer than those from richer nations such as the United States. Younger arrivals and women also remained at higher rates than older migrants and men. The study warned that longer stays by lower earners could reduce the projected fiscal benefit of the skilled worker route and increase demand for housing and public services.

The skilled worker visa scheme began in 2020 under the previous government and later expanded to include care workers. More than 931,000 people arrived in the first three years, exceeding initial forecasts. Home Office officials stated that recent settlement reforms require migrants seeking permanent residence to contribute to society before qualifying.

A spokesman said the changes ensure those who remain pay in more than they take out. 5 million after accounting for departures.