Germany is grappling with worker shortages across more than 70 professions, with the country having recognised this and offering their visa to foreigners with in-demand skills, as reported by the European Labour Authority (ELA).
These shortages are spread across various sectors, including transportation, healthcare, construction, and IT, indicating a higher likelihood of work visas for foreigners with in-demand skills.
According to the ELA’s 2023 Report on shortages and surpluses, the top 15 professions in Germany facing shortages are:
Heavy Vehicle Drivers (including truck, lorry, bus, and tram drivers)
Railway Operators (brake, signal, and switch specialists)
Machine Operators (for industries like paper, rubber, plastic, and metal)
Electronic Mechanics (for manufacturing and industrial sectors)
Electricians
Plumbers and Fitters
Construction Supervisors
Painters and Varnishers (spray painters and others in related roles)
Bricklayers and Masons
Healthcare Assistants (nursing associates and support roles)
Physiotherapists
Engineering Technicians (particularly in electronics, electrical, and civil sectors)
Software Developers and Applications Programmers
Early Childhood Educators
Primary School Teachers
Germany has also recently relaxed immigration policies to attract skilled foreign workers. Skilled professionals with at least two years of experience and recognized credentials can now apply for German work permits. Family reunification options have also been made easier under this new policy. Moreover, requirements for the EU Blue Card, as well as for recognized skilled workers, have been eased to help fill critical roles.
Germany Granted 2,500 Opportunity Cards So Far, Indians Obtained Most of Them
The Opportunity Card, or Chancenkarte, has generated significant interest among foreign nationals by allowing them to secure a visa solely for the purpose of job hunting in Germany.
Unlike traditional work visas, the Opportunity Card does not require an employment contract before arrival, giving holders up to one year to explore job opportunities within Germany.
Since its launch in June, nearly 2,500 Opportunity Card visas have been issued, according to the Federal Ministry of the Interior.
This visa pathway is expected to attract even more non-EU citizens eager to explore Germany’s job market firsthand.
So far, the highest number of Opportunity Cards has gone to Indian nationals, with a total of 780 visas issued, followed by recipients from China, Turkey, and Pakistan.
Source: Vanguard
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