Germany to Boost Skilled Worker Visas for Indians to 90,000 Per Year

In a major development for Indian job seekers, Germany is planning to increase the number of skilled worker visas issued to Indian nationals to 90,000 annually, up from the current cap of 20,000. This decision reflects the country’s urgent need to fill thousands of job vacancies across key industries.

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Rising Demand in Germany Creates Pathways for Indian Talent

According to German Ambassador to India, Dr. Philipp Ackermann, the growing workforce gap is a serious challenge. In an interview with LiveMint, he shared, “We’re looking at shortages in sectors ranging from IT and nursing to transport and caregiving. Skilled workers from India can play a vital role in helping us bridge that gap.”

Currently, Germany faces over 570,000 unfilled positions, as per data from the German Economic Institute. As the economy continues to grow and its population ages, the country is looking beyond Europe for solutions — and India stands out as a key partner.

Germany and India to Sign Labour Mobility Agreement

To support this increased migration, Germany and India are set to sign a bilateral agreement on labour mobility and skill recognition. This deal will be the first under the G20 Skills-based Migration Pathways Framework, which aims to promote fair and efficient labour migration between countries.

The agreement will simplify the recognition of Indian qualifications in Germany and encourage structured pathways for professionals across sectors.

Why This Is Good News for Indian Job Seekers

Indian professionals are already making a mark in Germany. The number of Indians working in skilled roles in Germany has grown significantly — from just 23,000 in 2015 to over 137,000 in 2024. Germany is now one of the most attractive destinations for skilled Indian workers, thanks to:
  • Higher salaries (Indian workers earn ~€5,400 per month on average)
  • Lower unemployment rates (just 3.7% among Indians in Germany)
  • Permanent residency options
  • Family reunification provisions
  • Opportunities in both academic and non-academic professions

Ackermann added, “You’d be surprised how many roles are open for young Indians — from nurses and IT experts to bus drivers and care workers. We are also investing in vocational and dual-training programmes for Indian youth.”

What Is Germany’s Skilled Labour Strategy?

To address its long-term labour shortage, Germany recently launched a comprehensive Skilled Labour Strategy. This action plan includes 30 detailed measures aimed at attracting, integrating, and retaining global talent — with a strong focus on Indian professionals.

This strategy revolves around four key objectives:
  1. Modernise immigration pathways for skilled workers
  2. Strengthen Indo-German cooperation on skill development
  3. Simplify the visa and qualification recognition processes
  4. Improve integration support once workers arrive in Germany

Germany’s 30 Measures to Attract and Retain Skilled Indian Workers

  1. Overhaul immigration laws to ease access for skilled professionals.
  2. Expand German language training programs in both India and Germany.
  3. Simplify the recognition of foreign degrees and qualifications.
  4. Digitise visa applications and speed up processing.
  5. Offer cultural orientation programs to help with integration.
  6. Provide support for family reunification and housing.
  7. Improve job-skill matching through AI-driven tools.
  8. Scale pilot programs like Hand in Hand for International Talents.
  9. Expand IGnITE, the Indo-German vocational training initiative.
  10. Partner with companies for internships and apprenticeships.
  11. Launch healthcare-specific recruitment and certification schemes.
  12. Reduce visa wait times in coordination with Indian authorities.
  13. Introduce green skills training for climate-friendly jobs.
  14. Offer upskilling and continuing education for migrants.
  15. Launch digital job portals linking Indian talent with German employers.
  16. Provide startup support for Indian entrepreneurs in Germany.
  17. Promote gender-inclusive hiring practices for Indian women.
  18. Strengthen academic exchange between Indian and German universities.
  19. Launch special recruitment drives in the tech and IT sectors.
  20. Develop industry-specific training in automotive, healthcare, etc.
  21. Encourage German firms to recruit directly in India.
  22. Offer relocation and settlement support services.
  23. Promote cultural exchange to foster workplace inclusion.
  24. Retain Indian students post-graduation by easing work visa rules.
  25. Expand in-country hiring efforts via German embassies and consulates.
  26. Host job fairs and events across major Indian cities.
  27. Continue high-level talks to smooth out migration processes.
  28. Provide legal aid for Indian workers on employment rights.
  29. Launch mentorship programs for smooth workplace transitions.
  30. Support safe, affordable housing for newly arrived workers.

Final Thoughts:

Germany’s plan to expand its skilled visa intake to 90,000 per year is a major shift in global migration patterns — and a big win for Indian job seekers. With simplified processes, better support systems, and a strong Indo-German partnership, this move opens the door to thousands of new opportunities.

Whether you’re an IT professional, a nurse, a trained technician, or a graduate looking for a global career, Germany may now be one of the best options to consider.

Stay updated on the upcoming pact, visa requirements, and job openings through official sources like the Make it in Germany portal or consult certified immigration advisors.

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