Permanent migration to OECD countries fell 1.6% to 6.1 million in 2025, the second annual decline in a row, according to the OECD’s International Migration Outlook 2026.
Weaker job markets and tighter visa rules reduced the number of people moving for work, although Spain, Portugal, and Italy bucked that trend. Excluding Spain, Portugal, and Italy, whose inflows are growing more quickly as they use labor migration to offset declining populations, permanent inflows to the 37 OECD countries were about 8% lower than in 2024. Some of the steepest falls came in traditionally open destinations, with permanent inflows down 32% in the U.K., 19% in Canada, and 14% in the United States. Temporary work migration also fell overall, including intracompany transfers and youth exchange programs, with an especially sharp drop in Canada.
The decline isn’t affecting all workers equally. Jean-Christophe Dumont, head of the OECD’s international migration division, said many countries are widening selective routes for skilled workers while making it harder for migrants to settle. Germany, for example, has expanded its skilled-worker visa programs. Dumont said the decline also reflects a weaker economy and a pullback from record post-pandemic levels, and inflows in many countries remain higher than in 2019. “Migration remains high, and immigrants now account for 16% of employment across the OECD,” said OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann.
IAM Member Impact: The figures reflect the general downturn in many international moving markets, with fewer work-related moves to the U.K., Canada, the United States, and Australia. Corporate clients are likely to focus on senior and highly skilled transfers that qualify under tighter rules.
Sources: OECD, International Migration Outlook 2026; Financial Times