Explore the latest Indian migration trend as Indians embark on global journeys, seeking opportunities beyond borders. Discover key insights into why and where Indians are moving. Explore the reasons, challenges, and success stories of Indians moving to foreign countries. And gain valuable perspectives on the growing phenomenon of international migration from India. Stay informed on the factors driving this shift and what it means for individuals and the global community.
World’s Largest Overseas Diaspora
Every year, around 2.5 million Indians migrate to foreign countries. This makes India the country with the highest annual number of migrants in the world. According to the Ministry of External Affairs of India, there are 32.2 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) residing outside India as of 2023. This makes the Indian diaspora the world’s largest. The top reasons for the Indian migration trend to other countries include seeking employment, education, family reunification, better job prospects, green pastures, and better standards of living abroad.
India’s global footprint
In 2022, 1.8 crore Indians traveled abroad from January to November, compared to 77.2 lakh in all of 2021. The number of individuals, except for students, is still lower than the pre-pandemic level. In 2020, India had the highest number of overseas citizens with nearly 17.9 million Indians born in the country living abroad. The top countries that Indians migrate to include the UAE, the USA, Saudia Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, the UK, Canada, Qatar, and Australia.
Reasons for the High Number of Indian Migrants
Several factors contribute to the high number of Indian migrants. Economic opportunities, education pursuits, and family reunification are among the top reasons for the world’s largest Indian diaspora. Many Indians have relocated overseas for employment purposes with the Middle East and Western Countries being top destinations. Additionally, a considerable number of Indians have emigrated for study, with the United States, Canada, and Australia being popular destinations. The end of pandemic-era restrictions and the perception that the current US administration is welcoming to asylum seekers have also contributed to the increase in Indian migrants to the United States. Furthermore, extreme visa backlogs have made it difficult for would-be immigrants to join their families abroad, leading to a rise in undocumented Indian immigrants crossing US borders.
Factors increasing Indian migration trend to other countries
- Economic Opportunities: Many Indians migrate for better job opportunities and higher wages. Usually, they move to countries with robust economies and industries.
- Skilled Migration: There is a huge demand for skilled Indian professionals in other countries. IT specialists, engineers, doctors, and scientists often migrate to countries that have a demand for their expertise.
- Education: Education is one of the significant factors in the high number of Indian migrants. Indian students often study abroad for access to top international institutions and diverse academic environments.
- Quality of Life: Many Indians move to other countries for an improved quality of life as they find better healthcare, education, and overall living standards.
- Family Reunification: One reason for the high number of Indian migrants is family reunification. Some people relocate to join their relatives who have already moved to other countries.
- Entrepreneurship: Some Indians migrate to start businesses or invest in countries with favorable economic conditions and entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Global Demand for Labor: Countries with labor shortages attract migrants to fill gaps in various industries, including healthcare, construction, and agriculture.
- Technology and Connectivity: Improved technology and communication have made it easier for individuals to explore opportunities abroad, connect with potential employers, and gather information about migration processes.
- Diaspora Communities: Established Indian communities in various countries can act as a pull factor, encouraging others to migrate for a sense of community and support.
- Government Policies: Policies in both sending and receiving countries can influence migration patterns, such as visa regulations, work permits, and immigration quotas.
- Cultural Exchange: Some individuals migrate for cultural exchange, seeking to experience and contribute to the diversity of global societies.
- Climate Change and Environmental Factors: Environmental concerns and climate change impacts may drive migration. It is because individuals seek regions with better environmental conditions.
Most Popular Destinations for Indian Migrants
Indian migration trend apparently shows that the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, Oman, Canada, and Australia are among the most popular destinations for Indian migrants. A considerable number of Indians consider moving to the Middle East and Western Countries for employment purposes. The United States has also witnessed a rapid increase in the Indian immigrant population. The top reasons for moving to the USA are educational exchange programs, new temporary visas for highly skilled workers, and expanded employment-based immigration channels. Canada is another popular destination for Indian migrants. This beautiful country is popular among Indians because of its PR-friendly policies and high-quality education opportunities. Other factors that influence the choice of destination include ease of getting residency, quality of life, and job prospects.
Countries with the largest Indian diaspora
Overseas Indians are the largest diaspora in the world. The countries with the largest Indian populations are as follows:
| Sr. No. | Name of Country | Indian Populations | % of the Total Population |
| 1 | USA | 4460000 (4.46 million) | 1.35% |
| 2 | UAE | 3425144 (3.42 million) | 38.2% |
| 3 | Malaysia | 2987950 (2.98 million) | 8.9% |
| 4 | Saudi Arabia | 2594947 (2.59 million) | 8.06% |
| 5 | UK | 1764000 (1.76 million) | 2.6% |
| 6 | Canada | 1689055 (1.68 million) | 4.2% |
| 7 | South Africa | 1560000 (1.56 million) | 2.5% |
| 8 | Myanmar | 2009207 (2 million) | 4.5% |
| 9 | Sri Lanka | 1614000 (1.61 million) | 7.3% |
| 10 | Kuwait | 1029861 (1.02 million) | 24% |
India to Canada Moving: Indian Migration Trend to Canada
The number of Indians migrating to Canada has increased significantly in recent years. According to an article published on forbes.com, the number of Indians obtaining permanent residency in Canada surged from 32,828 in 2013 to 118,095 in 2022, marking a substantial increase of 260%. In 2021, Canada welcomed over 405,000 immigrants, an all-time high, and nearly one-third of these immigrants were of Indian origin. The top factors for the increase in Indian immigration to Canada are restrictive immigration policies in the United States and Canada’s increasing immigration levels to support its post-pandemic economic recovery. Additionally, Canada is a popular destination for Indian students. Indian students in Canada comprise almost 50% of the nearly 450,000 international students who came to Canada in 2021. The number of individuals moving to Canada from India is set to remain strong, with Canada increasing its immigration levels to over 450,000 immigrants by 2024.
Recommended Readings:
- How to Immigrate to Canada from India Without a Job Offer
- A Step-by-Step Checklist for Moving to Canada from India
India to USA Moving: Indian Migration Trend to the USA
The migration trend from India to the United States has been notable in recent years. According to recent data, more than 900,000 new immigrants arrived in the U.S. between 2021 and 2022. Interestingly, about 130,00 were from India, reflecting people with legal visas. This influx includes high-skill workers and their families, with education and investor visas commonly used. The United States has historically been a favored destination for Indian migrants with the Indian diaspora in the U.S. being one of the largest in the world.
The USA continued to attract millions of people from India, with over 2.7 million recorded Indian migrants in 2020. Indian migration trends to the USA include factors such as job opportunities, education, and asylum. Changes in immigration policies and visa backlogs have influenced the rise in Indian to USA relocation.
Recommended Readings:
- Moving to the USA: 5 Best Places to Live in the USA
- The Ultimate Guide to Relocating to the USA from India
India to UK Moving: Indian Migration Trend to the UK
According to the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford, India was the most common country of birth for migrants in the UK in the year ending June 2021, with a significant 896,000 people. The Indian diaspora in the United Kingdom has a long history. Many individuals are moving to the UK from India for economic opportunities and to join family members already settled there. The UK has experienced broadly similar levels of migration compared to other high-income countries, on average, over the past few decades. However, the UK’s post-Brexit immigration system may have an impact on future migration trends. It is worth noting that the UK’s net migration figures include both immigration and emigration. And the number of people leaving the UK has been increasing in recent years.
Recommended Readings:
- 10 Best Places to Live in London, the United Kingdom
- 10 Best Places to Live in the UK for Indian Families | Moving to the UK from India
India to UAE Moving: Indian Migration Trend to the UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most favorite destinations for Indian migrants. India to UAE migration trend is driven by a combination of professional, personal, and economic factors. There are several reasons behind Indians moving to the UAE. One of many reasons for moving to the UAE from India is the wide range of career prospects in various sectors. It offers tons of job opportunities finance, technology, healthcare, and hospitality sectors. Additionally, the availability of quality education, strong historical and cultural ties between India and the UAE, and the multicultural society embracing diversity and tolerance towards different religions are other factors that contribute to the attraction of Indian migration trend to the Emirates. According to recent estimates, approximately 3.5 million Indians live in the UAE, making it home to the largest Indian diaspora.
Recommended Readings:
- Moving to Dubai: 15 Best Places to Live in Dubai for Indian Families
- Financial Insights: What’s the Average Salary in Dubai?
Indian Women Migration Trend to Other Countries
The migration of Indian women has been a growing trend in the last three decades. Historically, women’s migration across India has been primarily driven by marriage, although there has been a noticeable change in this trend in the last decade. Recent data indicates an increase in the independent migration of females, particularly for work and study purposes. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the independent migration of Indian women. This was driven by employment opportunities in various sectors such as export industries, electronic assembling, and garment units. This trend reflects a shift in the traditional patterns of female migration in India. Now more women are migrating for work and study purposes.
Rely on Moving Solutions for International Moving
Recognizing the prevailing market trends of a growing number of Indians moving to foreign countries, Moving Solutions has strategically positioned itself in this niche. And it is offering trustworthy services for international relocation. The platform has forged partnerships with leading international relocation experts and moving companies in India. It ensures a seamless and efficient transition for individuals and families venturing abroad. Leveraging its network of top-notch professionals, Moving Solutions caters to the diverse needs of clients. It offers comprehensive solutions for a hassle-free international moving experience. With a commitment to reliability and excellence, the portal aims to be a reliable resource for a smooth transition overseas.
Recommended Reading:
- Best International Moving Tips: How to Plan a Successful International Move
- Moving to India: The Complete Relocation Guide for Expats
Disclaimer: For the most recent and accurate information, please refer to official sources from relevant government agencies such as the Ministry of External Affairs of India and international organizations like the United Nations or authentic agencies that track Indian migration trends and diaspora populations.
Sources: Ministry of External Affairs of India | Forbes.com | Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford | Statista.com | Wikipedia
A copywriter, blogger, content strategist by profession, and an information junkie by heart. I have a penchant for reading, researching, writing, and anything related to creating persuasive content. For me, writing is something that ignites my creativity and helps in keeping me on cloud nine. I have been working in the content writing domain since 2006. Be it blogging or copywriting, I create better content that fuels conversations and skyrockets search traffic.
