World Immigration News

(YouGov)Britons have a more negative view of immigration in 2026 than in 2016

Release Date: 2026-08-10
Media: YouGov
Summary: A YouGov survey found that 69% of Britons believe immigration over the past decade has been too high, almost unchanged from 70% in 2016. However, perceptions of immigration’s impact have become more negative: 43% now say immigration has been mostly bad for the UK, up 10 percentage points from 2016, compared with 21% who see it as mostly good and 29% who see both positive and negative effects.

Attitudes vary considerably by migrants’ country of origin. Britons remain relatively welcoming toward migrants from Ireland, Canada and Australia, while attitudes toward Polish migrants have improved substantially. Only 26% now want fewer or no Polish migrants, down from 42% in 2016, possibly reflecting their successful integration. By contrast, respondents are most likely to favor reducing migration from Russia, Pakistan and Nigeria, while attitudes toward migrants from Russia and Israel have worsened amid international conflicts.

When assessing economic migrants, criminal history is the most important consideration: 94% regard serious or violent criminal records as important and 89% say the same about minor offenses. Skills needed in shortage occupations and English proficiency are also widely valued, at around 86–87%. Education, having a job arranged and family circumstances are considered important as well, while religion ranks lowest at 34%.

Political differences remain substantial, with Reform UK and Conservative voters generally more opposed to immigration and Green voters the most receptive. Nevertheless, there is broad cross-party agreement on prioritizing criminal history, necessary skills and English proficiency. Overall, the survey suggests that British attitudes toward immigration have become more negative, but remain strongly influenced by migrants’ origins, skills and perceived integration into society.
Tags: United Kingdom

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