In recent years, the Polish community in the United Kingdom has been one of the largest expatriate groups in Europe. Many Poles have worked across various sectors, including trade, construction, transportation, and services, envisioning their future in the UK. However, there has been a noticeable shift as increasing numbers consider leaving the country for new opportunities elsewhere.
Poles Seeking New Prospects
The latest data from the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows a significant decline in Polish migration to the UK. In the year ending December 2025, about 6,000 Poles settled in the UK, while approximately 19,000 departed. This results in a net migration loss, with departures more than tripling the number of arrivals. Consequently, Poles are now among the top nationalities leaving the UK, surpassed only by Romanians.
Long-Term Residents Departing
Notably, almost all Poles relocating from the UK hold settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS). These are mainly individuals who arrived prior to Brexit and have resided in the UK for many years. The allure of emigrating to England has diminished significantly, primarily due to Brexit and rising living costs.
Changing Migration Patterns
Experts indicate that the most critical change is not just the increase in departures, but also the sharp decrease in new Polish emigrants. New arrivals from Poland and other EU countries are declining rapidly, which substantially affects the Polish community’s size in the UK. The introduction of new work and residence rules post-Brexit has made moving to the UK more complicated than before.
Cost of Living Concerns
The rising cost of living further complicates the situation. Rent prices, utility bills, and everyday expenses have surged in recent years. While the UK continues to offer job opportunities, it is no longer the primary choice for those seeking work abroad.
Emerging Destinations for Polish Emigrants
- Germany
- Netherlands
- Scandinavian countries
Despite the decline of Poles in the UK, many are not returning to Poland. Instead, they are opting for life in other European countries. In various nations, the number of Polish residents is still increasing. For many, job security, access to housing, and the relationship between living costs and salaries have become paramount.
Tax Incentives for Returnees
Some emigrants choose to return to Poland. A tax relief program introduced in 2022 allows individuals returning after years abroad to benefit from temporary income tax exemptions. Each year, around 9,000 more taxpayers are taking advantage of this option.
UK Migration Policies and Concerns
Migration remains a critical issue in UK politics. Authorities emphasize that new regulations aim to enhance border control and reduce reliance on international labor. It is important to note that the net migration balance in the UK has fallen to its lowest level since 2012, excluding pandemic-related figures. Experts highlight that this decline results from stricter visa regulations and employment rules that have been implemented over time.
The changing landscape suggests a decline in the number of individuals willing to move to the UK, particularly among EU workers, which is expected to lead to dynamic changes in the migration market across Europe.
