Migration Flows
+626,268 migration balance
In 2024, the net migration balance was +626,268 people. 1.29 million immigrants arrived while 662,000 emigrated. Spain is the EU country with the highest population growth from migration.
Key data
+619.000
Foreign balance
Net immigration 2024
+6.600
Spanish balance
Net return 2024
+3,0%
Immigration change
vs 2023
3º
3rd highest of decade
After 2022 and 2023
Highest migration balances by nationality (2024)
View data in table
| Nationality | Migration balance |
|---|---|
| Colombia | +122.579 |
| Venezuela | +86.033 |
| Marruecos | +78.261 |
Historical series: External migration balance (2008-2024)
View data in table
| Year | Migration balance |
|---|---|
| 2008 | +460.221 |
| 2009 | +12.845 |
| 2010 | +62.269 |
| 2011 | -50.090 |
| 2012 | -162.390 |
| 2013 | -251.531 |
| 2014 | -94.976 |
| 2015 | -8.389 |
| 2016 | +87.422 |
| 2017 | +164.604 |
| 2018 | +334.158 |
| 2019 | +454.232 |
| 2020 | +216.162 |
| 2021 | +260.296 |
| 2022 | +727.005 |
| 2023 | +642.296 |
| 2024 | +626.268 |
Methodological context
The migration balance measures the difference between people arriving in Spain (immigration) and those leaving (emigration). Since 2016, Spain has had a positive migration balance, reaching the historic maximum in 2022 (+727,005). All autonomous communities had positive balances with abroad in 2024. Note: The INE Migration and Residence Changes Statistics (EMCR) began in 2008. Earlier data comes from the Residential Variations Statistics (EVR) with different methodology, so they are not directly comparable.