New Delhi: In the year 2022, more than 5.6 lakh Indians settled in OECD countries. OECD countries include rich countries like America, Britain and Canada. According to the report, most of the Indians have gone to these countries in search of work or with their families. However, due to stringent rules in OECD countries, it may become difficult for Indians to go there in the future. The members of OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) are mostly developed countries. Their economies are strong. They believe in democratic values. These countries play an important role in the world economy.
After Indians in the list, Chinese people
India tops the list of people going to OECD countries. According to the report, 3.2 lakh people from China have gone to OECD countries in 2022, which is less than India. Indians account for 6.4% of the total people moving to OECD countries, while Chinese account for 3.8%.
Russia has also come on top in the list of people visiting OECD countries. In 2022, 2.6 lakh Russians will settle in OECD countries. With this, Russia has moved from 18th to third position. All these things have been told in the International Migration Outlook 2024 report of OECD.
Which countries are rich Indians going to?
1.12 lakh Indians went to Britain in 2022, which is double from 2021. At the same time, 1.25 lakh Indians went to America which is 35% more than last year. However, the number of Indians going to Canada has declined. In 2022, 1.18 lakh Indians went to Canada, which is 8% less than in 2021.
Since the Corona epidemic, Chinese people are also going to OECD countries in large numbers. More than 3 lakh Chinese people immigrated to OECD countries in 2022, which is 13% more than 2021. 68,000 Chinese people have gone to America alone.
A large number of people from Russia and Romania have also gone to OECD countries. About 2.7 lakh people from both countries moved to OECD countries in 2022. Türkiye, Israel and Germany have become the first choices of the Russian people. At the same time, people of Romania are preferring to go to Germany, Spain and Italy.
However, strict rules are being made for new people in OECD countries. Along with America, Canada has also decided to settle less people in its country in the coming three years. Britain has also made new rules, which include increasing the salary limit and calling people only for certain jobs.
Indians are also at the forefront in taking citizenship
More than 1.9 lakh Indians have taken citizenship of OECD countries in 2022. This number is 40% more than last year. The number of Indians taking Canadian citizenship has increased three times. According to the report, this number may increase further in 2023.
Syria is at second place in the list of people taking citizenship of OECD countries. In 2022, 1.34 lakh Syrians have taken citizenship of OECD countries. This is 28% more than last year. Morocco is at number three. Its 1.21 lakh people have taken citizenship of Spain, Italy and France.
What are the main challenges faced by Indian migrants in OECD countries today?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Migration Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our discussion today! We have with us Dr. Nisha Verma, a renowned migration expert and researcher. Dr. Verma, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Nisha Verma: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss this pressing topic.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. According to the latest OECD report, over 560,000 Indians settled in OECD countries in 2022, topping the list of migrants. What do you think are the primary motivations behind this significant movement?
Dr. Verma: The motivations are diverse. Most Indians move abroad in search of better employment opportunities, improved living standards, and educational prospects for their families. The OECD countries, with their strong economies and democratic values, offer a desirable environment that appeals to many Indian migrants.
Editor: So, when we look at the numbers compared to other countries, Indians are ahead with 6.4% of the total migrants to OECD countries. Chinese migrants are at 3.8%. What does this say about the current global migration trends?
Dr. Verma: Indeed, it highlights the increasing inclination of Indians to seek opportunities abroad. Economic conditions in India, coupled with the global demand for skilled labor, are significant factors. Additionally, the pathways to migration, such as skilled worker visas and family sponsorship, have also become more accessible recently, although that may be changing.
Editor: Speaking of changes, the report indicates that stringent rules may hinder future migration for Indians. What specific policies are you referring to?
Dr. Verma: Many OECD countries have begun tightening their immigration policies, particularly in response to economic pressures and political changes. This includes implementing more robust vetting processes, limiting the types of visas available, and making it challenging to transition from student to work visa status. These changes can significantly affect future migration flows.
Editor: That’s concerning. It’s worth noting that while British and American destinations saw a marked increase in Indian migrants—112,000 and 125,000 respectively—Canada’s numbers have declined. What do you attribute this trend to?
Dr. Verma: The decline in Canadian migration could be tied to several factors, including increased processing times, changes in immigration policies, and perhaps a perception that other countries offer more immediate opportunities. In contrast, the strong growth in the US and UK can be attributed to established Indian communities, which pave the way for new migrants and strengthen these ties.
Editor: You mentioned established communities, which play a crucial role in migration patterns. In your opinion, will this trend of increased migration continue in the coming years?
Dr. Verma: While we can expect that the desire to migrate will persist, the actual numbers will depend heavily on external factors such as economic conditions in both India and destination countries, as well as immigration policies. If the current trend of tightening immigration continues, it could potentially put a damper on the flow of migrants.
Editor: It sounds like the landscape of global migration is in a state of flux. As we wrap up, what advice would you give to prospective migrants navigating this evolving situation?
Dr. Verma: My primary advice is to stay informed about the immigration policies of their target countries. They should also consider skill enhancement and networking within those communities to improve their chances of securing visas and employment. The future remains uncertain, and preparation is key.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Verma, for sharing your insights today. Understanding these dynamics is vital for many aspiring migrants, and your expertise sheds light on this crucial topic.
Dr. Verma: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing these important issues with you.