In this article, we will look at the 5 countries that have the most job opportunities for foreigners. We have also discussed how some companies provide promising career pathways for foreigners in another article. If you are interested in reading about that, along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 20 Countries That Have the Most Job Opportunities for Foreigners.
5. Singapore
Average Skill Shortage: 83%
Unemployment Rate: 2.8%
Singapore has consistently attracted a high number of foreign workers due to its highly stable and promising job market and economy. In 2022, the country experienced a record-high increase in total employment, with 227,800 new jobs created. However, a closer look reveals that a fair portion of this employment growth, approximately 88.5%, went to foreigners. This trend is influenced by reasons like conversion of foreign workers into Permanent Residents (PRs) and a consistent influx of new PRs and citizens. Consequently, Singapore continues to offer lucrative and accessible job opportunities for foreigners.
4. Portugal
Average Skill Shortage: 84%
Unemployment Rate: 5.8%
Portugal has become a new favorite for foreigners due to its new digital nomad visa program launched in 2022. Under this scheme, 200 digital nomad visas have already been approved, with applicants mainly hailing from countries like Brazil, the UK, and the USA. To qualify, individuals must earn a minimum of €2,800 ($2960) per month, four times the country’s minimum wage, allowing them to live and work in Portugal for up to 12 months. In fact, portugal is one of the countries with the easiest work visas for foreigners.
3. Hong Kong
Average Skill Shortage: 85%
Unemployment Rate: 5.1%
The government of Hong Kong plans to bring in up to 27,000 foreign workers across different industries. This includes quotas for 12,000 foreign workers in construction and 6,300 in the aviation sector. The labor force is crucial for economic development, and the shortage has been exacerbated by the removal of pandemic restrictions. Hong Kong’s airport alone faced a 32% reduction in workers, which affected passenger services.
2. Germany
Average Skill Shortage: 86%
Unemployment Rate: 3.0%
Germany is experiencing a high demand for skilled workers due to a large number of job vacancies. In 2022, Germany had nearly 2 million job openings. To address labor shortages and boost economic growth, the German government has introduced a new migration policy. This policy aims to attract foreign talent by inviting 60,000 professionals annually from non-EU countries. It offers three pathways for foreign workers: those with recognized degrees, those with vocational training and experience, and those eligible to find work based on a point system.
1. Taiwan
Average Skill Shortage: 90%
Unemployment Rate: 3.67%
Taiwan offers numerous opportunities for foreign workers with its highly favorable living conditions and a flourishing job market. Expats in Taiwan enjoy a high quality of life, often with generous salaries and benefits, like free housing, which largely enhances their standard of living. The country’s efficient and affordable healthcare system is another attractive feature. Furthermore, Taiwan’s strategic location in Asia makes it a convenient base for regional travel.
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