Cyprus Among Top Three in EU for Foreign-Born Residents
In a recent revelation by Eurostat, Cyprus has emerged as having the third highest share of foreign-born residents within the European Union. This Mediterranean island nation, known for its rich history and strategic location, is now home to a significant expatriate community, comprising 22.7 percent of its population.
The data indicates a diverse demographic landscape across the EU. At the forefront is Luxembourg, with a striking 50.4 percent of its residents born outside its borders, while Malta claims the second spot with 28.3 percent. In stark contrast, countries like Poland and Bulgaria have the lowest shares, with foreign-born residents making up just 2.5 and 2.6 percent respectively.
When it comes to sheer numbers, the larger EU countries lead the way. Germany boasts 16.5 million foreign-born individuals, followed by France at 8.9 million and Spain at 8.2 million. These figures reflect the broader trends of migration and mobility within and outside the EU.
Luxembourg also tops the charts for residents born in another EU country, with Cyprus following at a distant 10.6 percent. Poland, Lithuania, and Bulgaria have the smallest percentages of EU-born residents, all falling below 1 percent.
The statistics further break down the origins of these foreign-born residents. Malta leads with 20.9 percent of its population born in third countries—non-EU states—while Luxembourg and Cyprus follow suit with 17.2 and 12.1 percent respectively. This highlights the varied migration patterns, with some nations having a higher influx from within the union and others from beyond its borders.
The presence of foreign-born residents has significant implications for the economic, social, and cultural fabric of host countries. Cyprus’s position as a hub for expatriates adds to its cosmopolitan character and could influence everything from labor markets to education systems. As the EU continues to evolve, the movement of people across its member states remains a dynamic and influential factor in shaping its future.