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FlashSpainSeptember 15, 2026

EU Issues Record 3.9 Million Residency Permits in 2025, Up 10% From Previous Year

PublishedEditorial policy

The European Union granted 3.9 million residency permits to non-EU citizens in 2025, marking a 10% increase from 2024 and the highest number ever recorded. This surge is driven by demand for labor and family reunification across member states like Spain, Germany, and France.

EU ResidencySpain ImmigrationResidency PermitsEU VisaИспанияFamily Reunification

Key takeaways

  • The EU issued a record 3.9 million residency permits in 2025, a 10% increase from 2024.
  • Growth is driven by demand for labor and family reunification, indicating Europe's ongoing appeal to migrants.
  • Applicants should note that while overall numbers are up, specific country and visa track requirements (work, investment, family) remain crucial for individual approval.

EU Residency Permits Reach All-Time High in 2025

The European Union issued 3.9 million residency permits to non-EU citizens in 2025, setting a new record. This figure represents a 10% increase compared to 2024 and is the highest number recorded since data collection began.

This significant growth is primarily fueled by the ongoing demand for skilled labor across various sectors within the EU and the increasing number of family reunifications. Countries such as Spain, Germany, and France continue to attract new residents, indicating that EU policies remain open to new arrivals and that competition for talent is strong.

  • A record 3.9 million residency permits were issued across the EU in 2025, marking a 10% increase from 2024.
  • Key drivers for this growth include demand for labor and family reunification, showing Europe's continued attractiveness to migrants.
  • While the overall number is high, individual country rules and specific application tracks (work, investment, family) still apply, and a general increase does not guarantee personal approval.

Sources

Based on Emigro corridor reporting. Primary links below.

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