In 2023, the European Union hit a historic milestone, issuing a record 3.7 million first residence permits to non-EU nationals. This marks the highest number since record-keeping began in 2013, reflecting both the EU’s growing appeal as a destination for migration and the diverse reasons behind these residence requests.
Reasons for Residence Permits
The reasons behind these permits are varied, with the largest share issued for work-related purposes (33.8%) and family reunification (26.4%). These two categories dominate, reflecting the EU’s role as a global hub for labor mobility and family support. Humanitarian reasons (25.6%) and education (14.3%) also play significant roles in the residence process, each contributing to the overall increase in permits issued.
Leading Nationalities and Migration Trends
Ukrainian nationals received the highest number of residence permits in 2023, totaling 307,313, a figure driven by the ongoing war and the need for protection. In fact, 71.7% of permits for Ukrainians were granted on humanitarian grounds, highlighting the EU’s support for refugees fleeing conflict. Following Ukraine, Belarusians (281,279) and Indians (207,966) ranked second and third in permit numbers, with the latter group particularly benefiting from work-related opportunities, including the EU Blue Card program designed to attract skilled workers
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Russians also made up a notable share of permit recipients, with 116,142 issued primarily for family reasons. This group represents the broader trend of migration driven by family reunification, a factor that also saw high numbers among Moroccans, who accounted for over 50% of permits granted for family reasons
Significant Increases in Education and Humanitarian Permits
The education sector saw the most significant growth, with an increase of 63,674 permits from the previous year. Indian, Chinese, and American nationals were among the largest recipients, driven by the EU’s prominence as a destination for higher education
This reflects a broader trend of students seeking opportunities in Europe’s universities, especially in countries like France, Germany, and the UK.
Meanwhile, humanitarian permits—granted for reasons including asylum and protection—saw notable figures for nationals of Syria, Afghanistan, and Belarus. In particular, Syrians received 127,043 permits, while Afghans and Belarusians were granted 97,339 and 148,957, respectively, often due to ongoing conflict or political instability in their home countries
Conclusion
In conclusion, the surge in residence permits issued by EU countries in 2023 underscores the complex nature of migration to Europe. While work and family remain the primary drivers, humanitarian crises and the pursuit of education are increasingly important factors in shaping these trends. The record-breaking number of permits issued reflects both the EU’s appeal and the varied global factors that influence migration flows. The leading nationalities—Ukraine, Belarus, and India—illustrate the dynamic and shifting patterns of migration to the EU, fueled by geopolitical circumstances, economic opportunities, and the search for safety and education.