The number of foreign skilled workers in technical and scientific professions in Germany has increased significantly over the years, a new study has shown.
According to the German Economic Institute, the number of foreign employees working in STEM jobs reached 202,000 in 2022, representing an increase of around 190 per cent from 2012.
Moreover, the same study notes that from 2012 to 2022, the proportion of nationals of other countries taking up positions in this field increased to 12.7 per cent from 6.5 per cent.
“The abbreviation STEM covers professions and fields of study in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Over the past ten years, the proportion of foreigners in these occupations increased from 6.5 to 12.7 per cent,” the statement of Deutschland.de reads.
Data provided in the study show that while a considerable number of workers in STEM jobs are from European countries, others such as India, the US, and China have also emerged as sources of foreign skilled workers.
The number of employees from non-EU countries increased from 30,300 to 122,000 in the 2012-2022 period, as explained, with the largest increase being among Indians.
“According to the study, at least 132,000 additional foreign employees in STEM professions contribute some 16 billion euros per year to value creation in Germany,” Deutschland.de added.
As for the preferred settlement locations, it has been noted that major German citizens such as Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin attract the highest number of foreign employees in STEM jobs. It is believed that the majority choose these big cities as the opportunities for career development as well as networking are better than in smaller cities.
The study further emphasises that skilled foreign employees in STEM make significant contributions to Germany’s economy. This is because they are helping with the labour shortages that the country has been dealing with in recent years.
While many foreign workers are choosing Germany as their destination, the study notes that challenges remain.
One of the challenges is the language barrier and to help foreign employees overcome it, different companies in Germany are offering language learning courses as well as intercultural training.
Moreover, another challenge is the recognition of foreign qualifications and degrees.
Previously, SchengenVisaInfo.com reported that Germany will soon facilitate the migration rules for skilled workers who want to reach the country for work purposes.
The German Federal Government said that as soon as the Skilled Immigration Act enters into force, skilled workers from other countries will be able to live and work in Germany without being subject to as many rules as before.
