The greatest shortage of qualified employees is seen in healthcare and construction. Last year, more than 260,000 positions remained unfilled in the ten industries with the largest deficits, according to DW. For years, the country has attracted numerous illegal migrants, and although left-liberal media insist that among them are mythical “engineers,” it turns out they have not filled the gap in the German system.
Significant shortages
According to a study published on Saturday (November 8, 2026) by the German Economic Institute (IW), around 46,000 positions in the healthcare sector remained unfilled in 2024. The shortage mainly concerns physiotherapists, nurses, and dental assistants.
In construction, nearly 41,300 skilled workers were missing, primarily specialists in electrical installations as well as plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning systems. Public administration and the social sector ranked third, while industry came in fourth.