Discover Key Insights on Immigration in Wales by Area

Immigration in Wales has seen a notable increase, with the population growing by approximately 23,000 due to net international migration in the year leading up to June 2024. Each year, Wales experiences a consistent influx of individuals coming from and departing for other countries. The difference between arrivals and departures is referred to as "net migration." As of June 2024, Wales' population stood at 3.2 million, reflecting an increase of around 23,000 attributed to net international migration. A recent YouGov survey indicated that one-quarter of respondents in Wales ranked immigration, alongside the economy, as priorities for the Welsh government, despite immigration policies being governed by the UK government. What fuels this interest in immigration, and what insights can we glean from the data? The statistics on international migration encompass individuals intending to remain for at least 12 months, which includes British citizens returning home from abroad and individuals relocating from various countries. Most of these individuals arrive for work or study purposes, while others join family members, seek asylum, or participate in humanitarian programs, such as those aiding Ukrainians and individuals from Hong Kong. Understanding the terminology surrounding immigration can be complex. Legal immigrants enter the UK with permission, often via a visa, whereas illegal immigrants arrive without such authorization or remain in the country after their permissions expire. Some individuals, both legal and illegal immigrants, may apply for asylum upon arrival. Asylum seekers are those requesting refuge due to peril in their home nations, and successful claimants attain refugee or protected status. While the Welsh government implements the Nation of Sanctuary policy to assist refugees and asylum seekers in integrating and accessing public services, the overall immigration process remains under the purview of the UK government. Home Office data from December 2025 revealed that Wales supported 11 asylum seekers per 10,000 residents, a lower rate compared to other UK nations. England had the highest rate, with 16 asylum seekers per 10,000 residents. In Wrexham, a county in north Wales, the population is estimated at 138,245 as per the latest ONS figures from June 2024. From 2020 to 2024, net international migration is estimated to have contributed 2,900 new residents to Wrexham. However, due to other demographic changes in the area—like a higher death rate than birth rate—the net population growth was lower than expected. Recently, Wrexham experienced anti-immigration protests after proposals from the Home Office to house 70 asylum seekers in an unused care home were dropped. Local residents, including Natalie Wasiuk and Kelsey Hesp, expressed anxiety over the notion that immigrants might be prioritized over local families experiencing homelessness. The Home Office is legally obligated to accommodate asylum seekers while their claims are processed. Conversely, local authorities in Wales also have legal responsibilities regarding homelessness, with assistance varying based on individual circumstances. By the end of December 2025, the Home Office reported 128 asylum seekers were housed in Wrexham during their claim procedures. In contrast, 333 households in Wrexham were identified as eligible for homelessness support in the year ending March 2025. Residents of Wrexham held mixed views on immigration, distinguishing between refugees, legal migrants, and illegal immigrants. Official figures estimate that around 898,000 individuals arrived in the UK from June 2024 to 2025, with approximately 49,000 entering illegally during that time. Around half of the asylum claims submitted in 2025 were from those who had entered the UK illegally. Anna Buckley, director of the Polish Integration Support Centre in Wrexham, endorsed legal migration and highlighted how immigrants contribute positively through tax payments and community integration. Arlene Elano, a legal immigrant residing in Wrexham for nearly 24 years, spoke about the misunderstanding surrounding immigration, emphasizing that not all immigrants are illegal. The care sector in Wrexham, represented by Mario Kreft of Pendine Park, pointed out that about half of its 850 staff members are overseas workers, providing critical support and skills to the NHS. Professor Ryszard Piotrowicz from Aberystwyth University remarked that immigration often becomes a focal point in political campaigns, while legitimate concerns revolve around resource distribution and funding for asylum seekers. The Home Office reported the removal of nearly 60,000 illegal migrants and foreign national offenders since the 2024 election, primarily through voluntary departures. It is also ramping up removals and relocating asylum seekers to more basic accommodations. Political stances concerning immigration in Wales include varying positions: - The Welsh Conservatives and Reform wish to abolish the Nation of Sanctuary policy. - The Welsh Conservatives advocate for a fair yet controlled immigration system. - Reform Wales expresses concerns about the pressure on public services from substantial immigration rates. - Plaid Cymru supports a fair, rules-based migration system along with the Nation of Sanctuary policy. - Welsh Labour takes pride in its efforts to assist refugees and enhance the removal of illegal migrants. - The Welsh Liberal Democrats point out challenges arising from youth migration out of Wales. - The Wales Green Party calls for an improved asylum system with safe and secure routes. For additional insights into UK immigration statistics, consider checking out resources from UK Government [Here](https://www.gov.uk). Furthermore, you can explore the latest immigration trends and data at [Pew Research](https://www.pewresearch.org). For more information on migration policies and support, visit [www.globemigrant.com/immigration-in-wales](http://www.globemigrant.com/immigration-in-wales) and [www.globemigrant.com/immigration-statistics](http://www.globemigrant.com/immigration-statistics). Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9d443d4n33o

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