Thousands of jobs are vacant: Austria turns to foreign talents to fill the gap
Four out of five companies in Austria are struggling to find skilled workers, as the crisis hits both the healthcare sector and industries. Nursing homes report a shortage of staff, while construction projects face significant delays. According to surveys, about 80% of Austrian companies say they are affected by the labor shortage. Thousands of jobs remain unfilled, causing serious disruptions across society. Frederick Mitliewicz, the general manager of Talent & Care, said: "We see every day how these gaps not only burden companies but also affect society as a whole."
The healthcare system is under special pressure. Hospitals and care facilities are suffering from a shortage of thousands of nurses, causing wards to operate at maximum capacity and leaving patients facing longer wait times. In 2024 alone, the demand for nursing staff has increased by 32% according to Stepstone. The Ministry of Social Affairs estimates that Austria will need around 7,000 additional nurses annually until 2050. Experts warn that this demand cannot be met without the involvement of international specialists.
The industry is also feeling the effects. A study conducted by ibw found that 42% of companies are experiencing a labor shortage in critical trades such as electricians, welders, and metalworkers. These skilled workers are essential for construction, infrastructure, and production projects. Without them, projects face costly delays, increased expenses, and risks to quality standards.
To bridge the gap, Talent & Care has focused on recruiting international specialists since 2016. The agency emphasizes the importance of language preparation and cultural integration. Candidates meet employers via video calls before their arrival, and they receive language courses, intercultural training, and support in administrative procedures. This approach aims to make the transition smoother and more sustainable for both parties.
So far, Talent & Care has successfully recruited over 500 nurses from Colombia, Ecuador, the Philippines, India, and Indonesia into the healthcare system in Austria. There are another 800 currently preparing through language courses and qualification recognition procedures. Additionally, over 700 skilled workers have been integrated into more than 80 partner companies across various industries. Metljevic stated, "A successful start does not begin on the first day of work, but much earlier through good preparation."