Germany attracts foreign professionals with promises of good jobs and a high quality of life, but many decide to leave after a few years.
A recent study by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, affiliated with Germany’s Social Democratic Party, sheds light on the challenges these individuals face. The study surveyed around 400 skilled foreign workers who left the country due to dissatisfaction. Notably, 85% of participants held at least a bachelor’s degree, according to Der Spiegel.
The findings highlight the lack of a welcoming environment as the main reason professionals leave. “About 38% of respondents said they didn’t feel at home in Germany, and 27% said they didn’t feel welcome.” Social integration was another concern, with 44% expressing dissatisfaction in this area. While dissatisfaction with jobs was relatively low at 27%, other factors like the high cost of living, heavy taxes, and experiences of racism and discrimination (24%) also contributed to departures.
After leaving, two-thirds of these professionals return to their home countries, while one-third relocate to other nations. When asked if they would consider returning to Germany, the majority said no. However, the study does not specify the respondents’ countries of origin or the proportion of all foreign professionals in Germany who ultimately leave.
