Top 10 Countries in Europe with the Largest Immigrant Populations
Europe has long been a destination for immigrants due to its economic opportunities, political stability, and cultural diversity. Below is an informative overview of the top 10 European countries with the largest immigrant populations, based on the most recent available data up to 2025. The data reflects foreign-born populations, including both recent migrants and long-term residents, and is drawn from reliable sources such as Eurostat and national statistics agencies.
1. Germany
Germany hosts the largest immigrant population in Europe, with approximately 15.8 million foreign-born residents as of 2023, accounting for about 18.8% of its total population. Key immigrant groups include those from Turkey, Poland, Syria, and Romania. Germany's strong economy, labor market needs, and asylum policies have made it a magnet for migrants, particularly since the 2015 refugee crisis.
2. France
France has around 10.1 million immigrants, making up roughly 15% of its population. The country attracts significant numbers from North Africa (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia), as well as from sub-Saharan Africa and other EU countries like Portugal. France’s colonial history and linguistic ties contribute to its diverse immigrant demographic.
3. United Kingdom
The UK is home to approximately 9.6 million foreign-born individuals, or about 14% of its population, based on 2023 estimates. Major groups include those from India, Poland, Pakistan, and Nigeria. Despite Brexit reducing EU migration, the UK remains a hub for Commonwealth and global migrants, drawn by job opportunities and cultural familiarity.
4. Italy
Italy has an immigrant population of around 6 million, representing 10.1% of its residents. Many come from Romania, Albania, Morocco, and China. Italy’s geographic position makes it a primary entry point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean, with significant numbers settling in northern industrial regions.
5. Spain
Spain’s foreign-born population stands at approximately 6 million, or about 12.7% of its total population. Key groups include Moroccans, Romanians, and Latin Americans (particularly from Colombia and Venezuela). Spain’s mild climate, cultural ties with Latin America, and economic opportunities in agriculture and tourism drive immigration.
6. Netherlands
The Netherlands hosts around 2.7 million immigrants, roughly 15.5% of its population. Major groups come from Turkey, Morocco, Indonesia (due to colonial ties), and Poland. The country’s open economy, high quality of life, and demand for skilled labor attract both EU and non-EU migrants.
7. Sweden
Sweden has approximately 2 million foreign-born residents, accounting for about 19.8% of its population—one of the highest proportions in Europe. Significant groups include Syrians, Iraqis, and Finns. Sweden’s generous asylum policies and strong welfare system make it a key destination for refugees and migrants.
8. Switzerland
Switzerland’s immigrant population is around 2.6 million, representing a striking 29.6% of its population, the highest share in Europe. Many come from neighboring countries like Germany, Italy, and France, as well as Portugal and the Balkans. Switzerland’s robust economy and international organizations in Geneva drive immigration.
9. Belgium
Belgium is home to about 2.3 million immigrants, or roughly 20% of its population. Key groups include Moroccans, Turks, and other EU nationals (notably from France and the Netherlands). Brussels, as a hub for EU institutions, attracts a diverse, highly skilled migrant population.
10. Austria
Austria has around 1.7 million foreign-born residents, making up about 19% of its population. Major groups include Germans, Turks, and people from the former Yugoslavia. Austria’s strong economy and proximity to Eastern Europe contribute to its significant immigrant population.
Europe’s immigrant populations reflect a mix of historical ties, economic opportunities, and humanitarian policies. Countries like Germany and France lead in sheer numbers, while smaller nations like Switzerland and Sweden have notably high proportions of immigrants relative to their populations. These diverse communities continue to shape Europe’s cultural, social, and economic landscape.
Note: Data is based on the latest available statistics from Eurostat and national sources up to 2023. Percentages and figures may vary slightly with new updates.