Annual Channel migrant crossings highest since 2022

More than 41,000 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats in 2025 - almost 5,000 more than the previous year.

Home Office figures, with just the number for New Year's Eve to be added later, showed the total number of migrants crossing the Channel in the past year was 41,472, marking a 13% rise on the 36,566 for the previous 12 months.

The annual total was the highest since 2022, when nearly 46,000 crossed.

The government says it has already removed 50,000 people who were in the UK illegally and is working more closely with the French government.

A Home Office spokesperson said: "The number of small boat crossings are shameful and the British people deserve better.

"This government is taking action. We have removed almost 50,000 people who were here illegally, and our historic deal with the French means those who arrive on small boats are now being sent back."