EU Lists 42 In-Demand Jobs for Foreign Workers in 2025 – Visa Guide & How to Apply

As Europe faces demographic changes, a green transition, and rapid digitalisation, the demand for skilled professionals is reaching critical levels. In 2025, the EU is actively inviting global talent to fill shortages across 42 high-demand occupations.

Whether you’re a truck driver, nurse, software engineer, or construction manager, there are real career opportunities waiting in countries across the continent.

Why Europe Needs You: The Talent Gap Explained

Many EU countries are struggling to meet labour market demands due to ageing populations, insufficient local training, and industry transformation. The result? Thousands of vacancies across essential sectors like transport, healthcare, energy, and IT, many of which can’t be filled by domestic workers alone.

Key Reasons Behind the Skill Shortages:

• Over 400,000 unfilled truck driver roles.
• Soaring demand in elder and healthcare services.
• Green transition creating new roles in construction and engineering.
• Surging need for IT professionals in AI, cybersecurity, and software development.

Top 3 Sectors Where Foreign Workers Are in Demand

1. Logistics and Transport

Europe’s transport sector is short hundreds of thousands of drivers. If you hold a commercial driving license and international experience, this could be your fastest entry point into Europe’s workforce. Countries like Germany, France, and Italy are offering:

• Competitive salaries
• Paid training and licensing
• Relocation packages and bonuses

2. Healthcare and Elder Care

With ageing populations, countries such as Sweden, Germany, and the Baltics are urgently recruiting:

• Doctors
• Nurses
• Care assistants
• Physiotherapists and support workers

Foreign healthcare workers are offered fast-track qualification recognition, language training, and support for family relocation.

3. Green & Digital Jobs

Under the EU Green Deal and digital transformation plans, there’s a hiring boom in:

• Renewable energy
• Smart infrastructure
• Cybersecurity
• Artificial Intelligence
• Software and data engineering

These sectors offer long-term contracts and fast residency pathways, especially for tech professionals.

Full List: All 42 Shortage Occupations in Europe (2025)

Here are the in-demand jobs across EU member states. If your profession is listed, you may be eligible for fast-tracked employment and visa support:

Source: EURES 2025 labour shortage data

How to Move to Europe as a Skilled Worker

Learn the step-by-step process to find jobs, prepare your CV, apply for visas, and start a rewarding career in Europe as a skilled worker.

1: Match Your Skills to an In-Demand Occupation

Check if your profession is listed among Europe’s 42 shortage occupations. These include jobs in healthcare, transport, IT, and green sectors.

2: Create a Europass CV

Prepare a Europass CV—Europe’s preferred format. It helps recruiters assess your experience, language skills, and training easily.

3: Search Jobs on EURES Portal

Visit the EURES Portal to find thousands of verified jobs. Filter roles open to non-EU citizens for easier access.

4: Connect With a EURES Adviser

Free EURES advisers can help with job matching, documentation, visa rules, and relocation assistance based on your target country.

5: Prepare Supporting Documents

Gather essential documents: diplomas, work certificates, identity proof, passport, and where required, professional licenses or qualification recognition.

6: Apply for Jobs and Visa Simultaneously

Apply for jobs and begin visa processing in parallel. Many employers assist with the work visa process and relocation logistics.

Work Visa Pathways for Foreign Workers in Europe

Explore the most popular European work visa options for non-EU citizens, including eligibility, application process, and which visas suit your job profile best.

1. EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is ideal for highly skilled professionals earning a high salary. Requires a university degree and a work contract from an EU-based employer. Available in most EU countries (except Denmark, Ireland).

2. National Long-Stay Work Visas (D-Visa)

Issued by individual countries like Germany, France, or Sweden. Requires a job offer, proof of qualifications, and sometimes language skills. Visa validity ranges from 1 to 4 years.

3. Seasonal Work Visa

Seasonal Work Visa is available for short-term, lower-skilled jobs in agriculture, hospitality, or construction. Requires an employment contract and sometimes housing proof. Valid for up to 9 months.

4. ICT (Intra-Corporate Transfer) Permit

For workers transferred within multinational companies. Requires employment with the company for 3–12 months and a valid contract. Mainly used by tech, finance, and consultancy firms.

5. Job Seeker Visa

Offered by countries like Germany and Austria. Job Seeker Visa lets skilled workers enter without a job offer to search for work. Requires a degree, funds, and health insurance.

What Makes Europe Appealing for Global Talent?

• Higher-than-average salaries in shortage occupations.
• Relocation support including housing, training, and family benefits.
• Pathways to permanent residency after a few years of legal employment.
• Language courses and cultural integration support.

Useful Resources for Job Seekers

• 🔗 EURES Portal – Find Jobs in Europe
• 🔗 Europass CV Creator
• 🔗 EU Blue Card Information

Final Thoughts

Europe is not just offering jobs—it’s offering a future. For skilled foreign professionals, this could be the perfect moment to build a secure, rewarding career while living in one of the world’s most stable and diverse regions.

With the right qualifications and guidance, your move to Europe could be easier than you think.