The European Union (EU) has announced 42 high-demand occupations for skilled foreign professionals in 2025, spanning sectors like healthcare, transport, IT, and construction.
This disclosure, according to Travelobiz, reflects Europe’s urgent need to address labour shortages caused by ageing populations, a shrinking domestic workforce, and inadequate training for rapidly evolving industries.
As the EU navigates demographic shifts, climate goals, and digital transformation, it is actively turning to foreign talent to fill essential roles and support long-term economic growth.
These in-demand occupations reflect the EU’s urgent push to bridge workforce gaps in vital sectors such as healthcare, transport, construction, and technology, areas crucial to keeping essential services running and meeting future economic and climate goals.
Europe’s transport and logistics sector is struggling with a major shortage of skilled drivers and managers, especially in countries like Germany, France, and Italy. To attract foreign workers, many offer competitive salaries, sponsored training and licenses, as well as relocation packages and housing support.
As ageing populations increase demand for medical and support services, countries like Germany, Sweden, and the Baltic States are urgently hiring nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, and care assistants. To attract foreign talent, they offer fast-tracked qualification recognition, language training, family relocation support, and simplified visa processes.
Europe’s push for climate action and digital innovation is driving strong demand for talent in renewable energy, smart infrastructure, cybersecurity, AI, and data engineering. These roles often offer long-term contracts, attractive salaries, and clear pathways to permanent residency.
Professionals in the following categories are eligible for fast-track visa processing and priority recruitment across multiple EU member states:
1. Healthcare
2. Civil engineers
3. Transport & logistics
4. Information technology & digital services
5. Engineering
6. Green economy
7. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teachers
8. Hospitality
8. Hospitality
9. Manufacturing
10. Agriculture
Other priority roles:
Professionals seeking to work in the EU under the 2025 shortage occupation list can follow these key steps to secure employment and residency:
Confirm that the occupation aligns with the EU’s listed shortage roles for 2025—especially in priority sectors such as healthcare, IT, transport, and construction.
Use the standardized Europass CV format, widely accepted across Europe, to ensure clear and consistent presentation of qualifications and experience.
Access verified employment opportunities for non-EU nationals on the official EURES Job Portal. Filter listings by country, role, and sector.
Free guidance is available from EURES advisers, offering support on job matching, relocation planning, and visa application procedures specific to each destination country.
Typical documents include:
Once a job offer is received, begin the visa application process promptly. Many employers in Europe assist with required paperwork and provide relocation support.