Where the Talent Isn’t: Global Labour Shortages & Mobility Opportunities in 2025

In 2025, the war for talent isn’t just heating up—it’s going global. While some countries face critical shortages in healthcare, tech, and skilled trades, others are implementing immigration-friendly policies to fill the gaps. For scaling companies, this is a golden opportunity: move quickly, tap into new talent pools, and expand more strategically.

Here’s a quick founder's guide to where the shortages are, where the opportunities lie, and how to navigate this evolving landscape.

The Global Labour Crunch: Who’s Missing What?

🇩🇪 Germany: Engineering, Manufacturing, and IT

Germany’s economy needs fuel to keep running. The country requires over 400,000 skilled workers each year to maintain its growth. Engineers, IT professionals, and machine operators are in particularly high demand. This demand makes Germany a prime destination for tech and manufacturing companies looking to expand, especially with government support.

🇨🇦 Canada: Healthcare, Construction, and Green Energy

With an ageing population and a commitment to a green transition, Canada is actively recruiting healthcare workers, skilled tradespeople, and clean technology specialists. The government’s Express Entry and Global Talent Stream programs enable companies to bring in talent faster and more efficiently than before.

🇯🇵 Japan: Tech, Robotics, and Elder Care

Japan faces a shrinking workforce, resulting in significant shortages in fields like robotics, software engineering, and elder care. In response, the government is easing visa restrictions for foreign workers, particularly in tech and caregiving roles, offering long-term opportunities for businesses willing to embed themselves locally.

🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia: Construction, Hospitality, and Tourism

As Vision 2030 reshapes the Saudi economy, massive infrastructure projects such as NEOM and a booming tourism sector are creating significant demand for international expertise. Companies that can supply talent or relocate here will find favorable conditions and strong government support.

🇦🇺 Australia: Education, Agritech, and Healthcare

Post-pandemic, Australia is witnessing a resurgence in international hiring, particularly in rural healthcare, university research, and agritech. Its points-based immigration system rewards targeted skills, enabling businesses with the right strategy to scale operations or talent efficiently.

What This Means for Scaling Businesses

If you’re experiencing rapid growth and are struggling to hire locally, it’s time to look globally. This is important not just for cost or compliance reasons, but because that’s where the talent is. Smart founders are not just opening offices abroad; they are strategically building international talent pipelines and embedding teams where they can have the most impact.

Understanding Global Mobility

Global mobility goes beyond visas and relocations. It is essential to know where to go, why, and how to provide for you and your teams. You need to focus on growth effectively and concentrate on what truly matters.

How a Global Expansion Consultant Can Help You Move Smarter

Expanding globally is high-stakes. Every misstep costs time, talent, and trust. That's where a global expansion consultant, like Realm, comes into play.

We assist founders and global mobility leads in:

• Identifying high-opportunity markets based on your hiring needs and growth strategy.

• Navigating immigration and compliance to avoid red tape headaches.

• Designing mobility programs that balance agility with employee experience.

• Connecting with local networks—from co-working spaces to tax specialists—so you can hit the ground running.

  
  

In 2025, mobility means more than just movement. It’s a critical lever for growth, enhancing culture, and establishing competitive advantages. Work with experts who understand the terrain.

The Future of Talent Acquisition

As we progress into 2025, the landscape of talent acquisition is evolving. Companies that recognize early signals and adapt will be better positioned to succeed. The demand for skilled professionals across various sectors will continue to increase. Firms with effective global mobility strategies will stand out in their industries.

Taking Action

Talent shortages are not disappearing; they are reshaping. The companies that succeed will be those that act early and wisely. Collaborating with partners who understand how to navigate global hiring processes is essential.

If you have global hiring plans or need a fresh perspective on where to expand next, consider reaching out. Drop us a line at contact@realmunlimited.com for a clearer vision or support in tackling complex challenges. We provide consultancy services, practical global mobility advice, and shared services support as an "all-in-one" solution for ambitious businesses looking to grow internationally.

Keywords: global labour shortages 2025, global mobility opportunities, international talent strategy, countries with skill shortages, founder global expansion, global mobility consulting.