Immigration figures in Iceland surpass the 60,000 mark
In a recent report by Statistics Iceland, the evolution of the immigrant population and individuals with a foreign background in Iceland was highlighted. However, specific data on the percentage of immigrants and their second-generation counterparts from 2012 to 2022 remains scarce, with most search results providing information on Sweden or general immigration facts without a focus on Iceland.
Despite the lack of detailed time series data, it is widely understood that the percentage of immigrants in Iceland has seen a steady increase over the past decade. This growth is primarily attributed to labor migration, particularly in sectors such as tourism and services, as well as family reunifications.
Simultaneously, the second-generation immigrant population (children born in Iceland to immigrant parents) has naturally grown as immigrant families become more established in the country. This trend has resulted in a growing youth population with an immigrant background.
For the most accurate and comprehensive data, the OECD Economic Surveys: Iceland 2025 report would be the most authoritative source. However, the summary provided does not include specific percentages or time series data on immigrant shares.
For those seeking precise numbers or percentages, official data from Statistics Iceland or OECD country reports on Iceland are recommended. These reports typically provide detailed demographic breakdowns, including foreign-born populations and second-generation residents over time.
Here is a summary of the evolution of the main population groups from 2012 to 2022:
| Population Group | Evolution 2012 to 2022 | Notes | |---------------------------------|---------------------------------|-------------------------------| | Immigrants (foreign-born) | Steady increase in share | Driven by economic migration | | Second-generation immigrants | Increasing as immigrant families settle | Growing youth population with immigrant background |
Notably, a person born abroad whose parents were both born in Iceland is also considered to have a foreign background. As of January 1, 2023, the number of second-generation immigrants in Iceland increased from 6,117 in 2021 to 6,575.
Additionally, the number of people in Iceland with a foreign background (but not necessarily immigrants) increased slightly from the previous year, now comprising 7.2% of the population. The percentage of immigrants in Iceland in 2012 was 8%, and by January 1, 2022, it had more than doubled to 16.3%.
It is important to note that the data on the number of non-immigrants from foreign backgrounds does not include information about their country of origin or specific demographic details. Furthermore, the proportion of people in Iceland with a foreign background has not been specified in the provided information.
In conclusion, while specific time series data on the percentage of immigrants and their second-generation counterparts in Iceland from 2012 to 2022 is limited, it is evident that the immigrant population in Iceland has seen a steady increase over the past decade. For more detailed and precise data, official reports from Statistics Iceland and the OECD are recommended.
- To promote workplace-wellness and ensure health-and-wellness for all, employers in Iceland could consider implementing initiatives focused on the fitness-and-exercise and mental-health of their immigrant workforce, considering the steady increase in immigrants over the past decade.
- Given the rise in the second-generation immigrant population, it may also be beneficial for schools and educational institutions in Iceland to develop programs focused on nutrition education, to ensure that this growing youth population is equipped with the knowledge necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- As the immigrant population in Iceland continues to grow, it is crucial for policymakers and health professionals to focus on collecting and analyzing comprehensive data on various aspects of health and wellness among immigrants, including mental health, nutrition, and fitness levels, to inform effective policy decisions and interventions.
