In the brief article, we’ll talk about the 8 most immigrant friendly countries in the world with the biggest immigrant populations. If you want to learn more about the hot-favorite nations that have been attractive for immigrants for a long time, read 20 Most Immigrant Friendly Countries In The World.
8. Russia
Composite Ranking: 8
Number of Migrants: 11.6 million
Percentage of Migrant Stock In Total Population: 8%
Russia, the largest country by landmass, has around 11.6 million immigrants originating from Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. While the Russian government encourages certain skilled migration to combat population decline, rising xenophobia and legal uncertainties make managing the migrant population a big challenge.
7. United Kingdom
Composite Ranking: 7
Number of Migrants: 9.4 million
Percentage of Migrant Stock In Total Population: 13.8%
The United Kingdom has long been a target of global immigration and currently houses around 9 million people from other nations, which make up the country’s 13.8% population. Majority of immigrants in the UK hail from India, Poland, Pakistan, and Romania, with a notable increase from EU nations post-2004 due to European freedom of movement policies. They choose the UK for its strong economy, language familiarity, and pre-existing diaspora communities.
6. Australia
Composite Ranking: 6
Number of Migrants: 7.7 million
Percentage of Migrant Stock In Total Population: 30.1%
Australia attracts immigrants because of its well-developed economy, stable political climate, and high standard of living. According to the World Migration Report, a big percentage of Australia’s immigrants come from the United Kingdom, India, and China. Australia’s unique immigration policy, the Points-Based System, which favors migrants who are young, skilled, and English-speaking, further influence this pattern.
5. Canada
Composite Ranking: 5
Number of Migrants: 8 million
Percentage of Migrant Stock In Total Population: 22%
Canada’s inclusive immigration policies make the country see a large influx of immigrants annually from India, China, and the Philippines. These countries are the top sources of immigrants due to factors such as economic opportunities and family reunification. Immigrants prefer Canada because of its high living standards, quality education, and opportunities for career growth.
4. Germany
Composite Ranking: 4
Number of Migrants: 15.8 million
Percentage of Migrant Stock In Total Population: 18.8%
Germany is the most populous country in the EU and ranks high amongst immigrants, with the majority arriving from Turkey, Poland, and Russia. Immigrants are attracted by Germany’s robust economy, social welfare system, and historic-cultural ties with many countries. However, asylum seekers and refugees, especially from Syria and Afghanistan since 2015, have sparked intense debate. As of 2023, Germany has the world’s second-largest refugee population, presenting problems like public opinion divide and resource strain.
3. United States Of America
Composite Ranking: 3
Number of Migrants: 50.6 million
Percentage of Migrant Stock In Total Population: 15.3%
The immigration situation in the USA is multi-faceted because of the country’s political affiliations and aversions. As of 2023, most immigrants to the US originate from Mexico, China, India, and the Philippines. They are motivated by opportunities for better livelihoods, education, family reunification, or escape from political instability or violence. However, the situation is complex, shaped by shifting policies, economic conditions, and social attitudes.
2. United Arab Emirates
Composite Ranking: 2
Number of Migrants: 8.7 million
Percentage of Migrant Stock In Total Population: 88.1%
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) boasts the highest percentage of migrant stock within its total population globally, totaling 88.1%. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines contribute to the country’s immigrant stock as they get job opportunities in budding tourism, construction, domestic help, and hospitality. These immigrants seek better living conditions, higher wages, and improved career prospects, despite facing significant socio-cultural challenges and stringent immigration policies.
1. Saudi Arabia
Composite Ranking: 1
Number of Migrants: 13.5 million
Percentage of Migrant Stock In Total Population: 38.6%
Saudi Arabia tops the list of 20 most immigrant friendly countries in the world as it hosts an immigrant population that comprises 38.6% of its total populace, one of the highest percentages that signify its immigrant-friendly policies. Most immigrants predominantly hail from Southeast Asia, driven to the kingdom due to employment opportunities. Notably, almost all of these migrants are considered temporary workers or visitors. Although many stay for years, and sometimes even generations, they don’t get citizenship rights in KSA, like other Gulf countries.
If you never miss out on vital investment opportunities, Insider Monkey is your key to the world of finance. By subscribing to our newsletter, you can access a wealth of market insights and actionable advice. People’s attitude towards migrants, and strangers in general, stems from their deep-rooted biases and perceptions of other cultures. If you want to expand your knowledge on how different nations behave with others, read 25 Most Unfriendly Countries in the World and 25 Happiest Countries In The World.
