Report Challenges Stereotypes: Romanians' Contribution to UK Economy is Huge

Romanians represent the most economically active migrant group in the United Kingdom, making a far greater contribution to the British economy and society than stereotypes suggest, according to a new report. The study, titled "Contributions of the Romanian Diaspora to the British Economy and Society," was conducted by ACORD UK and Bournemouth University. Launched on July 2 in the British Parliament, the event was hosted by Gareth Thomas, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Romania. Attendees included the British Ambassador to Bucharest, Giles Portman, the Romanian Ambassador to London, Laura Popescu, and other officials and community representatives. The report reveals that Romanian entrepreneurs are increasingly active in key British economic sectors such as robotics, artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, energy, and research-based startups. Data from the 2021 Census shows that adults born in Romania and Bulgaria have the highest employment and self-employment rate in England and Wales, at 80.4%. Furthermore, UK tax data indicates that Romanian citizens paid approximately £2.399 billion in income tax and social security contributions in the 2019-2020 fiscal year. Authors estimate this contribution has grown significantly, with the average monthly salary for Romanians reaching £2,427, about 45% higher than in 2019 and close to the British average. As of December 2025, 349,700 Romanian employees were registered in the UK. The report also notes that nearly 80% of Romanians in the UK are between 20 and 49 years old, making them a vital resource for the British labor market, especially given the aging population. Romanians also play a crucial role in the National Health Service (NHS), with the number of Romanian employees doubling from 3,098 in June 2016 to 6,575 in June 2025. This places Romania fifth among EU countries for NHS England staff and ninth among all non-British nationalities. They work as doctors, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, physiotherapists, radiologists, and technical staff. Construction is another essential sector where Romanians are significantly involved, with Romania being a primary external source for labor in this field.