Germany is facing a severe labor shortage and an aging population, with estimates suggesting a deficit of 7 million skilled workers by 2035. The country currently has around 700,000 unfilled job vacancies, leading to a decline in economic growth potential from 2% in the 1980s to 0.7%. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck highlights migration as a crucial solution to this issue, warning that failure to address it could further reduce the growth rate to 0.5%.
Germany tops the list among non-English-speaking countries in a recent ranking of the most attractive places to work, with Australia leading globally this year. While primarily English-speaking nations dominated the top spots, Germany remains highly sought after, despite dropping to fifth place overall.
Hiring intentions among companies in Germany weakened further in February and even layoffs are possible in the months ahead, results of a survey by the ifo Institute showed Tuesday.
German Secretary of State at the Federal Foreign Office, Susanne Baumann, announced that Germany is opening its doors to young, skilled professionals from India in the fields of green technology, IT, and medical science. The need for well-trained workers in Germany is significant due to economic and demographic reasons. Germany has had success with Indian nurses and is now seeking professionals in the mentioned fields.
Under the new rules, citizenship will be available after five years residence, reduced from eight, in line with neighbouring countries such as France. For people who are "exceptionally well integrated", three years will be enough.