Libya hosts one of the largest migrant populations in Africa and the Mediterranean region. Its geographic location between Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe has made it a major destination and transit country for migrants seeking employment, safety, or onward travel to Europe.
According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Libya's migrant population reached approximately 940,000 people by the end of 2025, the highest level ever recorded by the organization's Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM). Migrants were identified from more than 44 different nationalities across the country. Most reside in major urban and economic centers such as Tripoli, Benghazi, and Misrata.
Overview of Libya's Migrant Population
| Indicator | Estimated Figure (Late 2025) |
|---|---|
| Total Migrants | 939,638 |
| Nationalities Represented | 44+ |
| Located in Western Libya | 52% |
| Located in Eastern Libya | 37% |
| Located in Southern Libya | 11% |
| Adult Males | Approximately 78% |
| Main Employment Sectors | Construction, Agriculture, Domestic Work, Services |
Source: IOM Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM).
Migrant Population by Country of Origin
The majority of migrants in Libya originate from neighboring African countries and conflict-affected states.
| Country of Origin | Share of Migrants | Estimated Population |
|---|---|---|
| Sudan | 36% | 338,000+ |
| Egypt | 20% | 188,000+ |
| Niger | 19% | 178,000+ |
| Chad | 9% | 85,000+ |
| Nigeria | 3% | 28,000+ |
| Other Countries | 13% | 122,000+ |
| Total | 100% | 939,638 |
These figures are based on IOM assessments conducted during 2025 and represent the largest identified migrant groups in Libya.
Migrants from Sudan
Estimated Population
More than 338,000 Sudanese migrants were present in Libya during late 2025. They represent the largest migrant nationality in the country.
Main Reasons for Migration
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Conflict and War | The Sudanese civil war that began in 2023 displaced millions of people. |
| Economic Hardship | Loss of livelihoods and rising inflation pushed many to seek work abroad. |
| Transit to Europe | Some migrants use Libya as a departure point for Europe. |
| Family Networks | Existing Sudanese communities facilitate migration. |
The ongoing conflict in Sudan significantly increased migration flows into Libya throughout 2024 and 2025.
Migrants from Egypt
Estimated Population
Egyptians account for approximately 20% of Libya's migrant population, representing more than 188,000 individuals.
Main Reasons for Migration
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Employment | Libya offers opportunities in construction, trade, and services. |
| Geographic Proximity | The long shared border facilitates movement. |
| Historical Labor Migration | Egyptian workers have migrated to Libya for decades. |
| Higher Wages | Certain sectors offer better earnings than comparable jobs in Egypt. |
Many Egyptian migrants are considered labor migrants rather than refugees or asylum seekers.
Migrants from Niger
Estimated Population
Nigeriens comprise approximately 19% of Libya's migrant population, totaling more than 178,000 individuals.
Main Reasons for Migration
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Employment Opportunities | Construction and agriculture sectors rely heavily on migrant labor. |
| Poverty Reduction | Workers seek higher incomes than available at home. |
| Cross-Border Trade | Historic trade routes facilitate migration. |
| Transit to Europe | Some migrants continue toward Mediterranean crossings. |
Many Nigerien migrants travel through long-established migration corridors connecting the Sahel region to Libya.
Migrants from Chad
Estimated Population
Chadians make up approximately 9% of Libya's migrant population, representing over 85,000 people.
Main Reasons for Migration
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Employment | Demand for labor in Libya attracts workers. |
| Economic Challenges | Limited opportunities in Chad encourage migration. |
| Border Communities | Family and ethnic ties exist across borders. |
| Trade Activities | Informal and formal trade support migration flows. |
Southern Libya and Chad have long-standing migration links dating back decades.
Migrants from Nigeria
Estimated Population
Nigerians account for approximately 3% of migrants in Libya, representing around 28,000 people.
Main Reasons for Migration
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Economic Migration | Search for employment and higher wages. |
| Transit Migration | Libya serves as a route toward Europe. |
| Business Activities | Small-scale trade and commerce. |
| Family Reunification | Joining relatives already working abroad. |
Many Nigerian migrants travel through Niger before entering Libya.
Other Nationalities
The remaining 13% of migrants originate from numerous countries including:
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Mali
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Ghana
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Cameroon
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Ethiopia
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Eritrea
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Somalia
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Bangladesh
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Syria
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Tunisia
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Algeria
Together, these groups account for more than 120,000 migrants residing in Libya.
Migration Reasons Across Libya
The IOM identifies economic migration as the dominant reason people move to Libya. However, motivations vary considerably.
| Reason for Migration | Relative Importance |
|---|---|
| Employment and Income | Very High |
| Escape from Conflict | High |
| Transit to Europe | Moderate |
| Family Reunification | Moderate |
| Trade and Business | Moderate |
| Education | Low |
| Humanitarian Protection | Moderate |
Economic opportunities remain the primary driver for most migrants, particularly those from Egypt, Niger, Chad, and Nigeria. Conflict-related displacement is especially significant among Sudanese migrants.
Employment Sectors
Approximately 74% of migrants reported being employed in Libya. The most common sectors include:
| Sector | Typical Jobs |
|---|---|
| Construction | Laborers, masons, technicians |
| Agriculture | Farm workers, livestock workers |
| Domestic Services | Housekeepers, caregivers |
| Transportation | Drivers, loaders |
| Retail and Commerce | Shop workers, traders |
| Hospitality | Hotel and restaurant workers |
Libya's labor market continues to depend heavily on migrant workers despite economic and political challenges.
Challenges Faced by Migrants
Migrants in Libya frequently encounter significant difficulties.
Key Challenges
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Limited legal documentation
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Financial hardship
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Restricted healthcare access
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Unstable employment
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Human trafficking risks
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Dangerous desert crossings
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Risks associated with Mediterranean sea journeys
International organizations continue to monitor humanitarian conditions affecting migrants throughout Libya.
Libya remains both a destination and transit hub for migration in Africa. With nearly one million migrants originating primarily from Sudan, Egypt, Niger, Chad, and Nigeria, the country plays a critical role in regional migration dynamics. While economic opportunities attract many workers, conflict, insecurity, and the aspiration to reach Europe also shape migration patterns. Current data indicates that labor migration remains the dominant factor behind the presence of migrants in Libya, while conflict-driven displacement—particularly from Sudan—continues to grow.
