Italy and Germany to Expand Work Visa Opportunities in 2025

Skilled professionals, if you’re aiming to advance your career abroad, look to Germany and Italy. These European nations are addressing critical labor shortages and will welcome hundreds of thousands of foreign workers in 2025.

Italy and Germany face a looming demographic crisis, prompting them to increase the number of work visas significantly. Reports indicate Italy plans to grant up to 165,000 work visas through its Decreto Flussi program. Additionally, Italy will issue 10,000 visas specifically for caregivers.

Germany aims to attract 400,000 skilled workers annually through its expanded Skilled Immigration Act and the new Chancenkarte, a points-based system. This unprecedented demand for foreign labor encompasses essential sectors, including healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, and hospitality. Let’s delve into the details.

Why Are Italy and Germany Issuing More Work Visas in 2025?

Italy and Germany are ramping up work visa issuance to address labor shortages and sustain economic stability caused by demographic changes. Two major reasons drive this shift:

1. Demographic and Labor Market Challenges

Both countries face declining birth rates and aging populations. These trends lead to shortages of both skilled and unskilled workers in critical sectors. To sustain economic growth and maintain essential services, both nations are shifting policies to attract international talent.

2. Government Policies and Work Visa Reforms

Italy:

The Italian government has increased its Decreto Flussi (Foreign Worker Quota Decree) to 452,000 work visas for 2023-2025. For 2025, Italy plans to issue 165,000 work visas covering both seasonal and non-seasonal employment in industries with acute labor shortages. An additional 10,000 visas for caregivers were approved in October 2024, reflecting the growing need for elder care.

Germany:

Germany introduced the Skilled Immigration Act in 2020 and expanded it in 2024. The new Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card), a points-based immigration system, simplifies entry for skilled workers, even without a prior job offer. Germany aims to attract 400,000 foreign workers annually to fill critical job gaps.

Which Occupations Will See the Most Work Visa Issuances in 2025?

Both Italy and Germany have specific industries in dire need of skilled labor. The following occupations are anticipated to receive a high number of work visa issuances in Italy in 2025:

1. Healthcare and Personal Care: Caregivers, nurses, and medical assistants
2. Tourism and Hospitality: Chefs, hotel staff, and waiters
3. Construction: Skilled laborers, engineers, and technicians
4. Agriculture and Fisheries: Seasonal farm workers and fishermen
5. Transport and Logistics: Truck drivers and delivery personnel
6. Technology and Telecommunications: IT professionals and technicians

In Germany, the following occupations are expected to receive the highest number of work visa issuances in 2025:

• Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, and elderly care assistants
• Engineering and Manufacturing: Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers
• IT and Software Development: Programmers, cybersecurity experts, and AI specialists
• Logistics and Transport: Truck drivers, warehouse managers, and supply chain specialists
• Education and Childcare: Kindergarten and primary school teachers
• Skilled Trades: Electricians, plumbers, and construction workers

Conclusion

Italy and Germany are taking significant steps to tackle labor shortages in 2025. By expanding work visa opportunities, they aim to attract skilled professionals from around the world. This initiative not only benefits the economies of these nations but also opens doors for international workers seeking new career opportunities in Europe.