In 2023, European Union countries issued a record 3.7 million first residence permits to third-country nationals, the highest number since data collection began in 2013. These permits allow foreigners to live in a specific country for a certain period of time and for various reasons, such as work, study, family, or humanitarian grounds. The majority of permits were granted to Ukrainian nationals, followed by Belarusians, Indians, and Russians. Notably, Russians received a significant portion of permits, mostly for family reasons.
The data from Eurostat shows that work permits accounted for the largest share of first residence permits at 33.8%, followed by family reasons at 26.4%, humanitarian and other reasons at 25.6%, and education at 14.3%. The number of permits granted for education saw a significant increase from the previous year, with Indians, Chinese, and Americans receiving the most permits in this category. Moroccans were the top recipients of family-related permits, making up over 50% of all such permits issued, while Belarusians, Syrians, Afghans, and Ukrainians received the most permits for humanitarian reasons.
Overall, the issuance of first residence permits to third-country nationals in the EU is primarily driven by work and family reasons, with a significant number also granted for humanitarian purposes. The data highlights the diverse range of nationalities receiving these permits, with Ukrainians, Belarusians, Indians, and Russians being among the top beneficiaries. The increasing number of permits issued for education also indicates a growing interest from foreign nationals in pursuing academic opportunities in EU countries.
The data also reveals some interesting trends in the distribution of permits for different purposes. While work permits make up the largest share of permits granted, family reasons and humanitarian grounds are also significant factors. The high number of permits issued to Moroccans for family-related purposes underscores the importance of family reunification in the immigration process. Additionally, the large number of humanitarian permits issued to nationals from countries like Belarus, Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine highlights the ongoing humanitarian crises in these regions.
The surge in the number of first residence permits granted to third-country nationals in 2023 reflects the increasing global mobility of people seeking opportunities in the EU. The data shows a clear preference for work and family-related permits, as well as a growing interest in pursuing education in EU countries. The issuance of permits on humanitarian grounds also demonstrates the EU’s commitment to providing support to individuals fleeing conflict or persecution in their home countries. Overall, the record number of permits issued in 2023 underscores the EU’s role as a destination of choice for a diverse range of individuals seeking to live, work, study, and reunite with family members in Europe.
