Top 3 Destinations for Ireland Expats (2023 Data via 2025 OECD Report)
The report estimates that 19,000 Irish citizens left for other OECD countries in 2023, up 4% from the year before.
| Country of Origin | Destination Country | # of Migrants |
|---|---|---|
| Ireland | Spain | ~3,800 (20% of overall Irish outflow) |
| Ireland | Netherlands | ~2,280 (12% of overall Irish outflow) |
| Ireland | Australia | ~2,280 (12% of overall Irish outflow) |
No US. No UK. The two countries most associated with Irish emigration historically don't crack the top 3 in 2023. Spain leads, with the Netherlands and Australia tied for second.
Where are those destination countries sending their people?
Emigration of Spanish citizens (to OECD countries) was 80,000 in 2023. ~18% went to Germany, 13% to the Netherlands, and 12% to France.
Emigration of Dutch citizens (to OECD countries) was 42,000 in 2023. ~21% went to Spain, 18% to Belgium, and 13% to Germany.
Emigration of Australian citizens (to OECD countries) was 22,000 in 2023. ~24% went to New Zealand, 19% to the United Kingdom, and 16% to the United States.
| Country of Origin | Top Destination Country | # of Migrants |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | Germany | ~14,400 |
| Netherlands | Spain | ~8,820 |
| Australia | New Zealand | ~5,280 |