EU Residency Permits Surge in 2024: Britons, Indians Top List
In 2024, a significant number of non-EU citizens obtained first residency permits in the EU, with over 3.57 million permits issued. This article explores the trends and top destinations for several nationalities.
Britons were among the most successful in securing these permits, with 43,600 obtaining residency, led by Spain issuing 12,653. These permits, issued due to changes in status or after gaps, allow residence for reasons like employment, family, or education.
India topped the list with 192,445 permits, with Germany issuing the most at 33,813. Australians saw 9,400 permits, with the Netherlands, France, and Germany being popular choices. Canadians obtained 15,400 permits, with France being the most popular at 3,461. New Zealanders secured 2,701 permits, favouring France and Spain.
For Americans, 80,300 permits were issued, with Spain topping the list at 15,638. South Africans moved to Europe on 10,600 permits, with the Netherlands being the top destination at 3,729.
Germany, Austria, and Switzerland saw significant border entries in 2024, with Germany likely issuing the most permits to Australians, alongside popular investment residence programs in Malta, Portugal, and Greece. The EU's first residency permits offer opportunities for non-EU citizens to live, work, and study across the continent.
