EU Immigrant Employment Hits Record High of 68.7% in 2025, New Study Finds

The employment rate among immigrants in the European Union reached a record 68.2% in 2025, up from 67.8% in 2024. This is according to a study by the Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (CReAM) at the ROCKWOOL Foundation Berlin, based on Eurostat data.

Non-EU immigrant employment in the EU rose by 6.6 percentage points between 2017 and 2025, increasing from 59.4% to 66.0%. This was the largest improvement among all groups tracked in the study, significantly narrowing the employment gap with native-born workers.

Malta, the Czech Republic, and Ireland recorded the highest non-EU immigrant employment rates in the European Union in 2025, reflecting strong labour market integration for foreign-born workers.

Belgium and Finland recorded the lowest non-EU immigrant employment rates in 2025. The study suggests that language requirements, labour market structures, and national integration policies contribute to these differences.

Germany recorded a 66.1% employment rate for non-EU immigrants in 2025, compared to 79.6% among native-born workers. This highlights that employment gaps remain despite overall improvements in labour market integration.

The increase in immigrant employment is driven by persistent labour shortages across sectors such as healthcare, IT, construction, and hospitality, combined with improving integration policies and favourable labour market conditions across many EU member states.

According to the study, employment gaps continue to be concentrated among non-EU women and highly educated migrants. Researchers note that the challenge is increasingly about ensuring immigrants can work in jobs that match their qualifications and skills.

A record immigrant employment rate of 68.2% reflects strong demand for skilled professionals across the EU. Indian workers in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and hospitality may benefit from expanding opportunities, although employment prospects vary by country and occupation.

1. Choose the EU country where you wish to work.
2. Check your eligibility for the relevant work visa or permit.
3. Secure a valid job offer from an approved employer.
4. Prepare the required documents.
5. Submit your application through the country's embassy or consulate.
6. Complete biometrics or interviews if required.
7. Receive your visa approval and travel to the destination country.

Y-Axis provides comprehensive assistance for professionals planning to work in Europe, including eligibility assessment, country selection, job search guidance, documentation support, visa application assistance, and advice on pathways such as the EU Blue Card and country-specific skilled worker programs.