Freedom of Movement Monitoring 2024: Fewer EU skilled workers in Germany

The current monitoring of freedom of movement for 2024 reveals a trend that is equally relevant for employers in Germany and for foreign skilled workers . Immigration of non-German EU citizens has fallen to its lowest level since 2011 , declining by 12.7 percent compared to the previous year. At the same time, the number of emigrations is rising: 368,565 EU citizens left Germany in 2024. The result is a drastically reduced net migration, which fell by almost 67 percent compared to 2023 and now amounts to just under 39,000 people. This is worrying news for many employers in Germany who rely on European skilled workers.

Impact on the German labor market

The figures clearly show that EU freedom of movement no longer automatically meets the needs of the German labor market. At the end of 2024, around 5 million EU citizens lived in Germany – a decrease of 1.2 percent compared to the previous year. Particularly striking is that the number of non-German EU citizens in employment subject to social insurance contributions fell for the first time in years . In September 2024, the number was just under 2.6 million, a decrease of 0.25 percent. This development is noticeable for companies that rely on employees from Poland, Bulgaria, or Romania, as these groups in particular traditionally make up a large proportion of immigrants. This trend indicates that employers must adapt their recruitment strategies and can no longer rely to the same extent on freedom of movement within the EU.

Opportunities and options for employers and skilled workers

For German employers, this development means they must increasingly think beyond the EU . With fewer skilled workers coming from EU countries, recruiting skilled workers from third countries becomes increasingly important. This is precisely where VISAGUARD comes in: We support companies and skilled workers in successfully mastering the complex procedures of labor migration . Whether it's recognition of professional qualifications , visa applications , or advice on immigration – professional support saves time and reduces risks. Germany continues to offer great opportunities for skilled workers from abroad, as the demand for qualified workers remains high, even if coverage via the EU is becoming more difficult.

Conclusion: Act strategically instead of waiting

The latest data from the Freedom of Movement Monitoring program clearly demonstrates that the conditions for immigration from the EU are undergoing lasting changes. For companies, it is no longer sufficient to rely solely on the European labor market. Instead, strategic solutions are needed that also incorporate the potential of skilled workers from third countries. For foreign skilled workers who want to come to Germany, now is a good time, as demand for qualified workers is high and new programs are facilitating access.