Germany saw a net immigration figure of 663,000 in 2023, marking a decrease from the previous year but still the fourth-highest since 1950. The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) reported that the influx of 1,098,000 Ukrainian refugees in 2022 contributed significantly to the high immigration surplus.
In 2023, only 276,000 Ukrainians migrated to Germany. Overall, there were 1,933,000 immigrants and 1,270,000 emigrants in the country, with a decrease in immigration and a slight increase in emigration compared to the previous year.
While immigration from other European countries decreased by 40%, there was a notable 56% increase in immigrants from Turkey. German nationals have been emigrating more than immigrating since 2005, with Switzerland, Austria, and the US being popular destinations.
Despite fewer German nationals leaving in 2023, the trend of emigration persisting over immigration continues. Stay updated on German politics and society with DW’s weekly email newsletter, Berlin Briefing.