Publication date: 02 December 2025

This joint EMN-OECD study provides a comprehensive overview of labour migration laws, policies, initiatives, and practices targeting third-country nationals in EMN Member Countries and Serbia between January 2021 and June 2024. It examines how labour migration is used to address current and future workforce shortages, covering key countries of origin and crucial labour sectors. The study highlights the challenges faced and the practices considered by countries with regard to labour migration.

Publication date: 16 November 2015

This EMN Inform summarises the main findings of the EMN Study "Determining labour shortages and the need for labour migration from third countries".
Main theme: Economic migration
Publication Type: Informs
Keywords: labour migration, labour shortage

Publication date: 07 August 2012

This article examines ways of better identifying the role of mid- and low-skilled migration in filling labour and skill shortages.

Publication date: 03 February 2012

This EMN Inform presents a brief summary of the findings from the EMN Study on Satisfying Labour Demand through Migration
Main theme: Economic migration
Publication Type: Informs
Keywords: labour shortages

Publication date: 28 April 2011

Does circular migration bring benefits? Is there evidence to support that it is preferred by migrants? This discussion paper examines the reasons behind the upsurge of interest in circular migration as well as benefits and improvements proposed to such models.

Publication date:

The EMN Cyprus National Conference aims to foster dialogue among policymakers, experts, employers, trade unions, and civil society to discuss how sustainable and effective migration policies can support labour market resilience. The event will serve as a platform to exchange experiences, showcase good practices, and develop practical guidance for national and EU-level policymakers.

Publication date:

On 3 December 2025 in Stockholm, the EMN Sweden Conference will gather stakeholders to discuss labour shortages and international talent attraction. The event will explore EU and national strategies to address these challenges and strengthen Europe’s competitiveness. Policymakers, experts and practitioners will exchange insights, good practices and new research findings.

Publication date:

This conference will explore the role labour migration might play in addressing labour market shortages in the Netherlands and the broader European context, while considering both the benefits and the challenges it brings. Participants will look at case studies and delve into concrete examples from other EU Member States, and explore various approaches to managing labour migration. Policymakers and experts will engage in this dialogue to examine the diverse policy choices that might shape the future of labour migration policies. 

Publication date:

As the demand for migrant workers increases amid persistent labour shortages and geopolitical shifts in Central and Eastern Europe, this conference will delve into the ways countries attempt to attract migrants, ensure ethical recruitment, and implement labour market integration policies. 

Publication date:

Organised under the framework of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, this conference will bring together policymakers, practitioners, and representatives of industries and worker unions, and allow for meaningful discussions on the current state of labour migration, trends, challenges, and possible solutions.
Main theme: Economic migration
Keywords: labour migration

Publication date:

On 19 November 2013, the University of Antwerp organises a day of lectures on "Developments in European, Belgian and Flemish labour migration law". The legal framework has recently been changed at European and national levels.
Main theme: Economic migration