The Tamil diaspora of Europe moved from Tamil Nadu, India and Sri Lanka in addition from Malaysia. Their identity is rooted in an ancient heritage, the rich Tamil language and literature and a vibrant culture that many still retain.

They came to North America to work as labour migrants, were joined by students moving for education, and then by refugees fleeing the Sri Lankan Civil War in the 1980s and 1990s. A large percentage reside in the larger metro areas in North America. The Tamil diaspora are found in United Kingdom, with the majority in the London metro area. Norway, Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands are home to large numbers of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees.

An overwhelming majority of Tamils adhere to Hinduism with minorities being Muslim or Christian. Two of the most important Tamil festivals are Pongal occuring in January, and Varudapirappu, the Tamil New Year, which occurs on 14 April. Both are celebrated by almost all Tamils, regardless of religion or their origin.

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