The birth rate in Germany has risen to its highest level in more than 30 years, fueled largely by immigration, raising hopes the country can reverse decades of population decline.

There were an average of 1.5 births for every woman living in Germany for the first time since 1982, according to newly released government figures.

The increase was almost entirely due to immigration, with the birth rate far higher among foreign residents than German citizens.

Manuela Schwesig, the minister for families, described the rise in births as a “beautiful sign”.

Germany has long faced what experts describe as a “demographic time bomb” from its aging population, with fears there will not be enough people of working age to sustain the economy.

By comparison, the annual birth rate in the UK is 1.9, while in the US it is 1.88.