Looking for career opportunities in Europe? Germany could be your ideal destination. According to a study by Bertelsmann Stiftung, Germany must attract 288,000 immigrants annually until 2040 to combat the challenges posed by an ageing population. Even with increased workforce participation from women and older workers, immigration remains crucial. Without it, the annual requirement could rise to 368,000 to maintain workforce stability. This creates a significant opportunity for Indian professionals. With 273,000 individuals of Indian origin already residing in Germany—making them the second-largest South, Southeast, East, or Central Asian community after Afghans—Indians are well-placed to contribute to Germany's labour market needs.
Germany is stepping up efforts to address its labour shortages. The government recently announced plans to issue over 200,000 professional visas in 2024, a 10% increase from the previous year. Of these, 90,000 visas are earmarked for Indian skilled workers, a remarkable leap from the current cap of 20,000. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has emphasized Germany’s openness to Indian professionals. During a recent visit to India, he highlighted the contribution of Indians to sectors like healthcare, IT, and nursing, saying, “The message is that Germany is open for skilled workers”.
Official data underscores the growing footprint of Indian professionals in Germany. As of early 2024, 137,000 Indians hold skilled positions in the country, a significant increase from just 23,000 in 2015. This trend reflects the increasing demand for expertise in technology, engineering, and healthcare.
Before making the move, it's essential to understand the cost of living. A report by University Living
titled European Student Landscape 2024 estimates the average monthly living expenses in German cities to
be around €1,235 (approximately ₹1 lakh).
Here’s how the costs break down:
• Accommodation: €600 (48.6%)
• Utilities: €475 (38.5%)
• Transportation: €85 (6.9%)
• Miscellaneous (food, entertainment, personal care): €75 (6.1%)
The total monthly expenses can vary between €920 and €1,550, depending on your lifestyle and location.
Germany’s ageing population is a significant driver of its immigration needs. Susanne Schultz, a migration expert at Bertelsmann Stiftung, explains, “Demographic change requires immigration to offset the retirement of baby boomers and maintain economic stability.”
The demand for immigration varies across Germany’s states. Regions like Thuringia, Saxony-Anhalt, and
Saarland are expected to see workforce declines exceeding 10% by 2040 without sufficient immigration.
Meanwhile, areas like Hamburg and Berlin are projected to experience milder reductions, well below 10%.
Additionally, states such as Bavaria, Hesse, and Baden-Württemberg face increasing workforce demands due
to structural economic changes, further underscoring the need for international talent.
The ageing population is reshaping Germany’s labour market. By 2040, nearly 28% of the population will be
65 or older, compared to 22% in 2020. The number of individuals aged 80 or above will rise from 5.8
million in 2027 to 7.7 million by 2040, accounting for 9.2% of the population.
This demographic shift will significantly impact economic productivity, requiring targeted strategies to
build infrastructure for older generations and recruit younger workers from abroad.
Germany’s median age will rise by 1.2 years nationally by 2040, but disparities will remain. Cities like
Hamburg and Berlin will have younger populations, with a median age of 43, while eastern states like
Saxony and Thuringia could see median ages reaching 52-53.
At the district level, the differences are starker. For example, Heidelberg is projected to have the
youngest median age at 38.8 years, while Greiz could have the oldest at 57.3 years.
Germany’s need for immigrants presents a tremendous opportunity for Indian professionals. With a growing demand for skilled workers across multiple sectors and regions, Indian talent can play a pivotal role in shaping Germany’s economic future while benefiting from its dynamic job market and cultural richness. If you're considering a move, now is the time to explore the pathways that Germany offers to skilled professionals.
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