Oxfordshire is famed for its stunning countryside, intricate architecture, and impressive universities. It comes as no surprise that Oxfordshire is a popular choice for foreign citizens; over one third Oxford’s residents was born outside of the UK.
Thanks to its popularity, people from all over the world flock to Oxfordshire and leave a powerful mark on the county, both in terms of community and economy.
If you’re hesitating in your decision to move to Oxfordshire with a partner, hesitate no more. This is the perfect destination for couples and families, no matter where you come from.
The Impact of Immigration on Oxfordshire’s Community
When considering the impact of immigration on Oxfordshire’s community, the University of Oxford cannot be left out of the conversation. This world-renowned institution is home to 12,075 international students, making up 46% of the student body.
Consequently, beyond the quintessentially English appeal of the university, there are hundreds of cultures influencing the University of Oxford community. You only have to glance at the societies for confirmation of this; from the Hungarian Society to the Hindu Society, everyone fits in somewhere.
This means that, by attending the University of Oxford, students are inevitably immersed into a world of diversity, opening their minds to different beliefs and ways of life.
Moving on from education, the influence of immigration can be seen in Oxfordshire’s culinary scene. With a wealth of international restaurants, from Italian to Mexican, it is clear that the region has been inspired by global gastronomy.
Finally, the ample facilities for religious residents demonstrates Oxfordshire’s willingness to embrace foreign cultures. Multi-faith prayer rooms can be found all over the city of Oxford, and while rural areas may not be able to compete in this department, there are certainly no shortage of provisions for those who wish to practise their religion.
The Impact of Immigration on Oxfordshire’s Economy
Again, we cannot ignore the importance of the University of Oxford with regards to its impact on the economy of Oxfordshire. As international students pay between £33,050 to £48,620 to study at the prestigious institution, compared to £9,250 for British students, it’s safe to say immigration boosts Oxfordshire’s economy.
The healthcare sector is also an example of how immigrants have shaped Oxfordshire’s economy. In 2022, NHS Digital announced that the ratio of foreign to UK staff at Oxford University Hospitals Trust was higher than the NHS England average, with 31.6% of respondents born outside of the UK. Evidently, the area attracts skilled workers who positively contribute to the UK economy through their essential work.
Why Do Foreign Citizens Choose to Live in Oxfordshire?
Many foreign citizens view Oxford as a safe place to settle down due to the diversity of cultures, many already have family living in the charming city.
Safety is an advantage of Oxfordshire in many ways; its low crime rate, low unemployment rate and high-quality educational institutions allow many residents to live privileged lives full of opportunity.
Away from the city of Oxford, there is no shortage of beautiful English countryside to enjoy. Yet, with excellent transport links to London, residents don’t need to worry about feeling out of the loop. This county offers the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
People move to Oxfordshire for a whole host of reasons, whether it’s job opportunities, community, or family.
If you’re preparing to move to this area with a partner, make sure you research the Fiancé Visa application before proceeding, to ensure you have everything you need to make the move. Immigration lawyers can help you to fill out the form as accurately as possible, meaning you could be exploring your new home in no time.
