New and innovative ways to attract foreign talents in the EU (EMN-OECD Inform)

This joint European Migration Network (EMN) – OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) Inform provides an overview of innovative initiatives to attract foreign talent between January 2021 and March 2024 by EMN Member Countries and selected non-EU OECD member countries. It also analyses whether and how EMN Member Countries monitor the effectiveness of these initiatives and identify related challenges and good practices.

The Inform, which focuses on two groups of foreign talent: third-country nationals with higher professional qualifications or skills; and those of all skill levels working in high value-added economic sectors, shows inter alia that:

  • Since 2021, 15 EMN Member Countries have introduced new or innovative approaches to attract foreign talent. Six EMN Member Countries reported no new initiatives but continue to rely on established measures to attract foreign talent which may not be specifically targeted.
     
  • EMN Member Countries use various funding strategies to attract foreign talent, including EU funds, national resources, and a combination of both. Nine of the 15 countries with new or innovative approaches reported relying on EU funds, initiatives and programmes, such as Talent Partnerships. Six EMN Member Countries fund their projects through national resources.
     
  • Initiatives often target specific economic sectors or countries of origin. High-skilled sectors such as information technology (IT), engineering, and healthcare are commonly targeted, with the Philippines, India, and Brazil frequently mentioned as countries of origin.
     
  • Digital platforms aimed at third-country nationals and employers are the most frequently used method to attract foreign talent. Four EMN Member Countries use websites to post vacancies for both domestic and third-country job applicants. Eleven have developed, and one is currently developing, online platforms specifically targeting employers wishing to hire foreign labour and prospective third-country national employees. Other initiatives include diplomatic efforts and tax incentives.
     
  • Some EMN Member Countries use skill development and assistance programmes to support foreign talent throughout the migration process. Six EMN Member Countries are implementing or planning programmes to validate and develop skills in third countries, while thirteen provide third-country nationals with pre- and post-arrival assistance, such as relocation information and cultural orientation.
     
  • Initiatives are implemented by a range of actors, including national authorities, private stakeholders, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Ministries of Economic Affairs, Labour, and sometimes Migration or Foreign Affairs can also play a role.
     
  • Ten EMN Member Countries regularly monitor their initiatives to attract foreign talent. For example, seven have already carried out evaluations, with five more planning or implementing evaluations.
     
  • Ten EMN Member Countries reported challenges that can deter participation in these initiatives, including complex administrative processes, verifying foreign qualifications, coordinating stakeholders, and integration difficulties.

For further details, please read the Inform attached above.

Publication Date:
Thu 27 Feb 2025
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