---

Undocumented Migrants: Statistics

Answer

Information about what is included in our daily statistics on illegal crossing of the channel by small boats, including the definition of small boat and type of landing, can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/migrants-detected-crossing-the-english-channel-in-small-boats/migrants-detected-crossing-the-english-channel-in-small-boats-last-7-days#about-the-data.

Data published on migrants attempting to cross the English Channel in small boats does not include individuals who arrive in the UK on larger vessels, such as go-fast craft, yachts (except those arriving in the area of operations of small boats), motor cruisers, tugs and fishing vessels – although these are rarely used by people arriving via illegal routes at present. This data also does not include those who arrive in the UK clandestinely on larger vessels not referenced above, including where hidden in a vehicle on a ferry.

We work closely with French counterparts to assure the daily data but, as set out in the publication notes, it is taken from provisional UK and French operational datasets and is subject to change.

Statistics related to other illegal entry can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/immigration-system-statistics-year-ending-march-2026/how-many-people-come-to-the-uk-via-illegal-entry-routes.

The statistics presented here relate to the number of people detected on, or shortly after, arrival to the UK through various illegal methods of entry. They do not include all those who enter the UK through illegal routes.

It is not possible to know the exact number of people who enter the UK via illegal routes because some people will successfully evade border controls and remain in the UK undetected. We have not produced any official estimates for this number.

Data on recorded detections in the UK within 72 hours of arrival and recorded detections at UK ports, which may include arrivals via yachts, ferries and fishing boats, are published in Table IER_D01 available on GOV.UK at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/immigration-system-statistics-data-tables#illegal-entry-routes.

Latest data are up to the end of March 2026.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

11679

Session

2026-27

Related items

Undocumented Migrants: Statistics
Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Written questions
House of Commons

Grouped for answer

Yes

Subjects

Boats Undocumented migrants Statistics English Channel

Contains statistics

Yes

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk