Europe’s vibrant job market offers a plethora of opportunities for skilled professionals worldwide. However, as certain industries experience surging demand, others face critical labour shortages.
To address these imbalances and stimulate economic growth, many European Union (EU) and Schengen Area member states have turned to work visas to attract foreign talent.
In this article, we explore the significance of work visas for Europe’s most sought-after professions and the measures being taken to bridge the labour gap.
The Importance of Work Visas in Filling Labor Shortages
Across the EU and Schengen Area, specific professions are facing significant labour shortages, creating a pressing need for skilled workers from abroad. To facilitate the recruitment of foreign professionals, many countries have streamlined their work visa processes.
Work visas not only offer foreign workers the opportunity to contribute their expertise to the European job market but also support the region’s economic development.
Europe’s Top 20 Most Wanted Professions
The European Labour Authority (EURES) report has identified the top 20 most sought-after professions in the EU. Professionals with qualifications or experience in these fields have increased their chances of obtaining work visas for Europe.
The demand for workers in these occupations spans multiple countries, making them highly attractive prospects for skilled individuals looking to work in Europe. The top 20 most wanted professions include:
| No. | Professions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bricklayers and related workers |
| 2 | Carpenters and joiners |
| 3 | Heavy truck and lorry drivers |
| 4 | Metal working machine tool setters and operators |
| 5 | Nursing professionals |
| 6 | Plumbers and pipe fitters |
| 7 | Building and related electricians |
| 8 | Welders and flame cutters |
| 9 | Concrete placers, concrete finishers, and related workers |
| 10 | Sheet metal workers |
| 11 | Floor layers and tile setters |
| 12 | Software developers |
| 13 | Cooks |
| 14 | Building construction laborers |
| 15 | Electrical mechanics and fitters |
| 16 | Applications programmers |
| 17 | Generalist medical practitioners |
| 18 | Bus and tram drivers |
| 19 | Motor vehicle mechanics and repairers |
| 20 | Specialist medical practitioners |
Must Read: 10 Important US Visa Updates You Might Have Missed
Strategies to Attract Foreign Professionals
Recognizing the significance of skilled foreign workers, various EU nations have implemented strategies to attract talent in high-demand fields. These measures include:
1. Employment Strategies for Specific Countries: Some countries, like Germany, have designed employment strategies targeting young professionals from specific nations. By tailoring recruitment efforts, they aim to attract workers with skills that align with their domestic labour needs.
2. Simplified Work Visa Procedures: Many EU countries have streamlined their work visa application processes for in-demand professions. This facilitates the hiring of foreign professionals and expedites their entry into the European job market.
3. Promoting Targeted Labor Migration: At the EU level, the European Commission has suggested promoting targeted labour migration from non-EU countries. By facilitating the entry of skilled workers in key sectors, the EU aims to address labour shortages across all member states.
Challenges for Occupations with Surpluses
While certain professions experience a high demand for foreign talent, others face visa challenges due to an oversupply of professionals in most EU member states.
Occupations such as graphic and multi-media designers, administrative and executive roles, journalists, interior designers, and shop sales assistants fall into this category, making it more difficult for foreign workers in these fields to obtain work visas for the EU.
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!
