5 High Paying Countries for Skill Shortage Workers (December 2024 Report)
Imagine having the world as your oyster, where your skills open doors to lucrative opportunities in the most desirable destinations. As economies recover and innovate post-pandemic, nations are competing fiercely to attract skilled workers to fill critical shortages. The result? High salaries, fast-track visa programs, and life-changing opportunities for professionals willing to explore global horizons.
In this research, we unveil the five highest-paying countries for skilled workers in 2024, each offering robust visa programs, attractive job markets, and promising futures. We also publish data on the average salaries for these skilled workers in 2024 and discuss projections for 2025, including anticipated new entries into their skill shortage lists.
1. Switzerland – #1 ($87,500 Average Salary)
Skilled Work Visa Program: L permit or B Permits (Work Permits for Skilled Workers)
Skilled Shortages Occupations: IT specialists, Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses), Engineers (mechanical, electrical, and civil), and Skilled tradespeople (plumbers, electricians).
Why It Will Remain on Top? – Switzerland’s reputation for offering the highest salaries globally is backed by its robust economy, high quality of life, and demand for specialized professionals. With a consistent need for healthcare and engineering expertise, the country ensures attractive perks to lure top talent.
2025 Outlook – New occupations such as sustainability consultants, AI specialists, and green energy engineers are anticipated to join the shortage list as Switzerland accelerates its environmental initiatives.
2# Luxembourg – #2 ($78,800 Average Salary)
Skilled Work Visa Program: EU Blue Card and Third-Country National Work Permit
Skilled Shortages Occupations: Financial analysts and professionals, IT specialists (cloud computing, cybersecurity), Engineers, Healthcare professionals
Why It Will Remain on Top? – Luxembourg’s small size belies its global significance in finance and technology. The EU Blue Card program simplifies the hiring of highly skilled professionals, and its competitive salaries make it an attractive option for international talent.
2025 Outlook – Emerging demands in fintech, renewable energy technology, and blockchain development are expected to broaden the skill shortage list, creating more opportunities for foreign professionals.
3# United States – #3 ($74,700 Average Salary)
Skilled Work Visa Program: H-1B Visa
Skilled Shortages Occupations: Software developers and IT specialists, Healthcare professionals (nurses, physicians, therapists), Engineers, and Skilled tradespeople (welders, electricians).
Why It Will Remain on Top? – The U.S. continues to lead in innovation and technology, attracting global talent to Silicon Valley and beyond. While the H-1B visa is competitive, alternative pathways like the O-1 Visa for extraordinary abilities ensure access for top-tier professionals.
2025 Projections – AI and robotics engineers, renewable energy specialists, and advanced data analysts are predicted to join the shortage list as the U.S. invests in cutting-edge industries.
4# Norway – #4 ($68,700 Average Salary)
Skilled Work Visa Program: Residence Permit for Skilled Workers
Skilled Shortages Occupations: Engineers (oil and gas, renewable energy), Healthcare professionals, Skilled tradespeople, and IT specialists.
Why It Will Remain on Top – Norway’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy creates a steady demand for engineers and green technology professionals. High living standards and generous welfare policies further enhance its appeal.
2025 Outlook – Occupations like electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure planners, smart city architects, and AI-powered automation specialists are expected to make the shortage list as Norway pioneers sustainable innovations.
5# Canada – #5 ($65,200 Average Salary)
Skilled Work Visa Program: Global Talent Stream (GTS) under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Skilled Shortages Occupations: Healthcare professionals (nurses, doctors, caregivers), IT specialists (software developers, cybersecurity experts), Skilled tradespeople (electricians, plumbers, welders), Early childhood educators.
Why It Will Remain on Top – Canada’s welcoming immigration policies, multicultural society, and quality of life make it a favorite among skilled workers. Programs like the GTS offer expedited processing and paths to permanent residency.
2025 Outlook – Increased demand for green energy technicians, AI engineers, and telemedicine professionals as Canada invests in its digital and sustainable future.
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