Germany and Italy, two of Europe’s largest economies, have announced plans to issue hundreds of thousands of work visas in 2025 to address critical labour shortages in various sectors.
Italy is set to grant up to 165,000 work visas through its Decreto Flussi programme, with an additional 10,000 visas dedicated to caregivers.
Germany, under its expanded Skilled Immigration Act and new Chancenkarte points-based system, aims to attract 400,000 skilled workers annually.
This surge in work visa issuance comes in response to demographic challenges and severe labour market gaps, with both countries struggling to fill crucial positions in key industries such as healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, and hospitality.
Reasons Behind the Surge in Work Visa Issuance
Two main factors are driving the increased number of work visas in 2025:
1. Demographic and Labour Market Challenges: Both Germany and Italy are grappling with ageing populations and declining birth rates, resulting in labour shortages across essential sectors. To sustain economic growth and ensure the continuation of critical services, both governments are looking to international talent to fill the gaps.
2. Government Policies and Reforms:
• Italy: The Italian government has significantly raised its quota of work visas under the Decreto Flussi programme, with 452,000 work visas planned for 2023-2025. Of these, 165,000 are earmarked for 2025, covering both seasonal and non-seasonal employment in sectors with acute labour shortages. Additionally, 10,000 visas for caregivers were approved in October 2024 due to increasing demand for elder care workers.
• Germany: Germany introduced the Skilled Immigration Act in 2020, which has been further expanded in 2024. The new Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card), a points-based immigration system, is designed to attract skilled workers, even those without a prior job offer. Germany plans to bring in 400,000 foreign workers annually to address workforce gaps.
Sectors in Need of Skilled Labour
Both countries are facing significant labour shortages across various industries. In Italy, key sectors in need of foreign workers include healthcare, personal care, tourism, hospitality, construction, agriculture, transport, logistics, and IT.
In Germany, critical shortages are seen in healthcare, engineering, IT, logistics, education, childcare, and skilled trades.
This increased demand for foreign labour presents numerous opportunities for international workers looking to relocate to Europe, particularly in fields where shortages have become increasingly pronounced.
With a focus on long-term sustainability and economic growth, Italy and Germany are poised to become key destinations for skilled workers globally.
