Top-Paying Countries for Skilled Shortage Workers in 2025
Professionals in industries where there is a lack of qualified applicants to meet demand are referred to as “skill-shortage workers.” These roles, which are critical to a country’s growth, typically cover industries such as healthcare, engineering, information technology, construction, and skilled trades.
As economies recover and adjust in the aftermath of the epidemic, countries are vigorously competing for talented personnel to fill critical shortfalls. As a result, there are fast-track immigration processes, good salaries, and life-changing opportunities for professionals looking to widen their global horizons.
List of Top-Paying Countries for Skilled Shortage Workers
Switzerland with $87,500 Average Salary
L permits or B permits (Work Permits for Skilled Workers) are part of the skilled work visa program.
There is a shortage of skilled workers in the following occupations: IT specialists, medical professionals, engineers, and skilled artisans.
Why It Continues to Be at the Top:
Switzerland’s claim to have the world’s highest pay is supported by its robust economy, high standard of living, and need for qualified personnel. Because engineering and healthcare talents are constantly in demand, the country provides appealing incentives to attract top talent.
 Luxembourg $78,800
Skilled Work Visa Program: Third-Country National Work Permit and EU Blue Card
Limited Opportunities for Skilled Workers: IT specialists (cloud computing, cybersecurity), financial analysts and professionals, engineers, and healthcare professionals
The Factor That Keeps It at the Top:
The small size of Luxembourg obscures its global importance in technology and finance. The competitive pay and ease of recruiting highly experienced professionals make the EU Blue Card program a desirable choice for worldwide talent.
United States with ($74,700 Average Salary)
H-1B Visa Program for Skilled Workers
Engineering, healthcare, software development and IT, and skilled trades are among the occupations with the greatest shortage of skilled workers.
The Reason It Continues to Be at the Top:
America continues to dominate the world in innovation and technology, attracting top people from around the world to Silicon Valley and beyond. While the H-1B visa is extremely competitive, access to top-tier professionals is ensured by other routes, such as the O-1 visa for extraordinary ability.
Norway: Average Salary of $68,700
Program for Skilled Work Visas: Permit to Reside for Skilled Employees
A shortage of competent workers in the following occupations: engineers, IT specialists, healthcare professionals, and skilled craftsmen.
The Reason for Being at the Top
Because of Norway’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy, there is a steady need for engineers and experts in green technologies.