In 2025, migration flows increased in Southern Europe, but decreased in North America

In 2025, immigration to OECD countries decreased for the second consecutive year, totaling 6 million new permanent immigrants, a 1.6% drop from 2024. While labor migration increased by 13%, humanitarian migration for refugees fell by 26%. The report highlights divergent trends across regions, with European OECD countries seeing a 4.7% rise in immigration, driven by Southern European nations like Portugal, Italy, and Spain. Italy's government expanded work immigration pathways despite a tough stance, while Spain's reforms simplified residency procedures. The increase in Portugal was due to a backlog of applications. Excluding these countries, immigration to OECD countries would have dropped by 8.2%. In France, more Ukrainians are obtaining permanent legal status due to temporary protection from the war.