EU Issues Record 3.9 Million New Residency Permits in 2025, Up 10% from Previous Year
PublishedEditorial policy
European Union countries issued 3.9 million new residency permits to non-EU citizens in 2025, marking a 10% increase from 2024 and the highest number recorded. This growth reflects demand for labor, family reunification, and economic opportunities across Europe.
Key takeaways
- A record 3.9 million residency permits were issued in 2025, a 10% year-on-year increase, indicating an acceleration rather than a slowdown in issuance.
- This growth is linked to labor shortages in specific sectors, family reunification, and economic opportunities, not a general loosening of controls.
- For applicants, this suggests that opportunities exist, but conditions are country-specific; a record overall figure does not guarantee approval for individual cases.
Record Number of EU Residency Permits Issued in 2025
European Union countries granted a record 3.9 million new residency permits to citizens from non-EU countries in 2025. This figure represents a 10% increase compared to the previous year, marking the highest number recorded since statistics began. The data, reported by The Local, indicates a continued upward trend in the issuance of residence permits across the EU.
This growth is primarily driven by factors such as the demand for labor in specific sectors, family reunification, and the pursuit of economic opportunities within Europe. While conditions for obtaining residency vary significantly between member states—with some tightening rules and others remaining open—the overall trend confirms Europe's enduring appeal as a destination. Italy is highlighted as one of the major countries attracting foreign nationals.
Sources
Based on Emigro corridor reporting. Primary links below.
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