The global competition for skilled workers is heating up in 2025 as many nations struggle with labour shortages across key sectors.

To address this, several countries are simplifying immigration rules and opening new visa pathways to attract foreign professionals, including Nigerians.

Industries such as technology, healthcare, construction, and caregiving are witnessing especially high demand, with opportunities not only for employment but also for long-term residency and even citizenship.

Here are 10 countries hiring foreign workers in 2025 with simplified visa processes:

1. New Zealand

New Zealand is fast-tracking immigration to fill urgent labour gaps.

*In-demand roles: Civil Engineers, Registered Nurses, Plumbers, IT Professionals

*Visa Pathway: Green List Straight to Residence Visa – offers a direct route to permanent residency for critical occupations.

2. Spain

Spain has eased work visa procedures to tackle labour shortages in multiple sectors.

*Top roles: Construction Workers, Agricultural Labourers, Hospitality Staff

*Visa Options: Seasonal Worker Visa, General Long-Term Work Visa.

3. Singapore

Known as Asia’s tech and innovation hub, Singapore is actively recruiting skilled professionals.

*High-demand jobs: Biomedical Scientists, Software Developers, AI & Machine Learning Experts

*Visa Options: Employment Pass (for professionals), S Pass (for mid-skilled workers)

*Tip: Applicants should confirm requirements on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal.

4. Romania

Romania is issuing thousands of work visas annually to boost its workforce.

*Key sectors: Construction, Agriculture, Hospitality

*Visa Update: 100,000 guest worker visas granted each year, especially for workers from Asia.

*Note: Many roles do not require a university degree.

5. Estonia

Estonia is positioning itself as a leader in Europe’s digital economy.

*Hiring in: Software Development, Web Design, IT Support

*Visa Options: D-Visa (short-term employment), Digital Nomad Visa (for remote workers)

6. Ireland

Ireland’s booming economy is driving high demand for foreign workers.

*Jobs in demand: Nurses, Chefs, Childcare Workers, Data Scientists

*Visa Programs: Critical Skills Employment Permit, General Employment Permit

7. Japan

Japan is reforming its immigration system to welcome more foreign workers.

*Hiring for: Caregivers, Factory Operators, IT Engineers, English Instructors

*Visa Options: Specified Skilled Worker (SSW), Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa

8. Germany

Germany has introduced a simplified points-based system to attract skilled migrants.

*Top roles: Mechatronics Engineers, Technicians, Healthcare Workers, IT Specialists

*Visa Type: Opportunity Card – designed for easier migration pathways.

*Tip: Basic German language skills can boost your chances. Apply via the official Make it in Germany portal.

9. Canada

Canada continues to rank as one of the most immigrant-friendly destinations.

*In-demand jobs: Nurses, Truck Drivers, Welders, Software Engineers

*Visa Options: Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), International Mobility Program (IMP)

*Tip: Workers can switch jobs immediately after filing a new permit application.

10. Australia

Australia leads the pack with huge demand in infrastructure and technology.

*Top jobs: Construction Managers, Electricians, Cybersecurity Analysts, Aged Care Workers

*Visa Route: Skills in Demand Visa (introduced in December 2024) targeting essential trades and high-growth fields.

*Tip: Apply early and ensure your job title matches the ANZSCO codes on the Home Affairs portal. (The Nation)