18:55 1 September 2025
Poles leaving Germany for Poland in droves
For the first time since the fall of the Berlin Wall, more Poles have left Germany than arrived. In 2024, 76,320 Poles moved to Germany, while 88,388 left, a net decline of 12,068, according to German statistics. The Times reports that return migration is driven by Poland’s dynamic economy, low unemployment, government incentives, and frustration with Germany’s bureaucracy and sluggish growth.
Since EU accession in 2004, over 2.5 million Poles had settled in Germany, but today many see Poland as more attractive. Wages in Warsaw now nearly match Berlin’s, while living costs are lower. Experts note Poles “no longer need to leave,” as Poland sustains growth near 5% with one of Europe’s strongest labor markets.
