As labour shortages continue to affect many economies worldwide, several countries are revising their immigration policies to attract skilled workers in high-demand sectors.
In 2025, nations like Canada, Germany, Australia, and Japan are creating easier pathways for professionals seeking employment and long-term settlement.
According to TravelBiz, fields such as healthcare, information technology, construction, and caregiving are experiencing surging demand in these countries, prompting them to actively welcome foreign professionals—not only with job offers but also opportunities for permanent residency and eventual citizenship.
Here are 10 countries actively hiring foreign workers in 2025:
1. New Zealand
New Zealand is simplifying its immigration system to fill critical vacancies across industries.
In-demand roles: Nurses, Civil Engineers, IT Specialists, Plumbers
Visa option: Green List Straight to Residence Visa – a direct path to permanent residency for essential occupations.
2. Spain
Spain has eased its work visa procedures to attract more foreign labour, especially in seasonal and manual jobs.
High-need sectors: Hospitality, Agriculture, Construction
Visa types: Seasonal Work Visa, General Work Visa
3. Singapore
Known as Asia’s tech and biotech hub, Singapore is actively recruiting skilled professionals.
Key roles: Software Developers, AI Engineers, Biomedical Experts
Visa pathways: Employment Pass (for professionals), S Pass (for mid-skilled workers)
Applicants can visit the Ministry of Manpower website for detailed guidance.
4. Romania
Romania is welcoming foreign workers in large numbers, especially from Asian countries.
Top sectors: Agriculture, Hospitality, Construction
Visa update: 100,000 annual guest worker visas are being issued, especially to citizens of countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and India. Many of these roles don’t require a university degree.
5. Estonia
Estonia is quickly becoming a hotspot for remote workers and IT professionals.
Jobs in demand: Web Designers, Software Developers, IT Support
Visa options: D-Visa (for short-term work), Digital Nomad Visa (for remote professionals)
6. Ireland
With its growing economy, Ireland is expanding employment opportunities for foreign talent.
Sought-after roles: Chefs, Data Analysts, Nurses, Childcare Providers
Visa options: Critical Skills Employment Permit, General Employment Permit
7. Japan
Japan is reforming its immigration rules to address workforce shortages, especially in healthcare and manufacturing.
Key roles: Caregivers, Factory Workers, English Teachers, IT Technicians
Visa programs: Specified Skilled Worker (SSW), Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa
8. Germany
Germany is embracing a new points-based immigration system to attract global talent.
Industries hiring: Mechatronics, Healthcare, IT, Technical Services
Visa option: Opportunity Card – designed to streamline migration for skilled workers
Basic German language skills can be beneficial. More information is available on the Make it in Germany portal.
9. Canada
Canada continues to be a top choice for immigrants, thanks to its inclusive immigration system.
Jobs in demand: Truck Drivers, Welders, Nurses, Software Engineers
Visa routes: Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), International Mobility Program (IMP)
Workers can change employers without waiting for a new permit approval.
10. Australia
Australia leads the list with strong demand in construction, healthcare, and technology sectors.
Key roles: Cybersecurity Experts, Electricians, Aged Care Workers, Construction Supervisors
Visa option: Skills in Demand Visa, introduced in December 2024.
Applicants should check if their job aligns with official ANZSCO codes and apply early due to potential delays.
