Germany is making it easier for skilled foreign workers to obtain work visas in response to critical labor shortages. The relaxed rules apply to 25 high-demand professions across sectors like technology, healthcare, engineering, construction, and education.
Under the new regulations, foreign workers with at least two years of experience in these fields and a recognized degree in their home country can qualify for a work visa, even if their qualifications are not formally recognized in Germany.
25 In-Demand Professions Eligible for Eased Visa Rules
The following professions are in high demand, and qualified workers in these fields can now secure a work visa more easily:
- Heavy Truck, Lorry, Bus, Tram, and Locomotive Operators
- Railway Operators (e.g., brake, signal, switch operators)
- Machine Operators (industries like paper, rubber, plastic, metal, etc.)
- Cabinet Makers
- Food Preparers (bakers, pastry cooks, butchers, fishmongers)
- Electronic Mechanics
- Electricians
- Plumbers and Fitters
- Construction Supervisors
- Spray Painters and Varnishers
- Bricklayers
- Forestry and Related Workers
- Firefighters
- Clerks (roles in personnel, transport, accounting, and bookkeeping)
- Dental Assistants and Therapists
- Nursing Associate Professionals
- Medical Technicians
- Physiotherapists
- Engineering Technicians (fields like electronic, electrical, civil engineering)
- Applications Programmers
- Software Developers
- System Analysts
- Early Childhood Educators
- Primary School Teachers
- Audiologists and Speech Therapists
These professions cover key sectors where Germany faces acute shortages, making skilled talent essential to meet workforce needs.
Additionally, Germany has introduced an “opportunity card” – a point-based visa that allows foreign workers to come to Germany to search for jobs without a pre-existing job offer.
Applicants earn points based on qualifications, experience, language skills, and other factors, giving them up to a year to secure employment.
These visa reforms highlight Germany’s commitment to attracting skilled workers globally, aiming to close an annual shortfall of 400,000 workers and strengthen the country’s workforce amid growing demands in essential industries.