10 Countries Hiring Nigerians in 2025 Due to Labour Shortage

As the global competition for skilled professionals intensifies in 2025, many countries are facing labour shortages in key sectors. 

To tackle this, several nations are simplifying immigration rules, opening up new visa pathways, and actively seeking foreign talent, including from Nigeria. Industries such as technology, healthcare, construction, and caregiving are seeing particularly high demand. 

These positions not only offer immediate job opportunities but also the potential for long-term residency and even citizenship. 

If you’re a Nigerian professional looking to explore international career opportunities, here are the top 10 countries hiring skilled workers in 2025:

1. New Zealand

New Zealand is fast-tracking its immigration processes to fill urgent labour gaps. In-demand roles include civil engineers, registered nurses, plumbers, and IT professionals. 

The Green List Straight to Residence Visa provides qualified workers with a direct route to permanent residency, eliminating the need for a job offer.

2. Spain

Spain has eased its work visa procedures to address labour shortages across various sectors. The country is looking to fill positions in construction, agriculture, and hospitality, with options for a Seasonal Worker Visa or a General Long-Term Work Visa.

3. Singapore

As one of Asia’s leading tech and innovation hubs, Singapore is actively recruiting skilled professionals, particularly biomedical scientists, software developers, and AI & machine learning experts. 

The Employment Pass for professionals and S Pass for mid-skilled workers make it easier for qualified individuals to work in Singapore. Applicants should check the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal for specific requirements.

4. Romania

Romania is issuing thousands of work visas annually to boost its workforce in critical sectors like construction, agriculture, and hospitality. 

The country grants 100,000 guest worker visas each year, with many roles not requiring a university degree, making it accessible for a wide range of skilled workers.

5. Estonia

Estonia is positioning itself as a leader in Europe’s digital economy, offering numerous opportunities for skilled workers. 

The country is hiring in fields such as software development, web design, and IT support. Estonia offers the D-Visa for short-term employment and the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers.

6. Ireland

Ireland’s rapidly expanding economy is creating high demand for foreign workers in various fields. 

Positions in demand include nurses, chefs, childcare workers, and data scientists. Ireland offers the Critical Skills Employment Permit and General Employment Permit for skilled workers.

7. Japan

Japan is reforming its immigration system to welcome more foreign workers, especially in caregiving, factory operations, IT, and English teaching. 

The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa and Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa are the primary options for foreign workers looking to live and work in Japan.

8. Germany

Germany has introduced a simplified points-based system to attract skilled migrants from around the world. The country is looking for mechatronics engineers, technicians, healthcare workers, and IT specialists. 

The Opportunity Card allows skilled workers to access easier migration pathways. Knowledge of German can enhance your chances of success, and applications are handled through the official Make it in Germany portal.

9. Canada

Canada remains one of the most immigrant-friendly countries, with high demand for workers in healthcare, tech, and skilled trades. In-demand jobs include nurses, truck drivers, welders, and software engineers. 

Canada offers programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and International Mobility Program (IMP) to help skilled workers secure jobs and work permits.

10. Australia

Australia leads the way with high demand for skilled professionals, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, and technology. Key roles in demand include construction managers, electricians, cybersecurity analysts, and aged care workers. 

The Skills in Demand Visa was introduced in December 2024 to target skilled workers in essential trades and high-growth fields like cybersecurity. To apply, ensure that your job title matches the ANZSCO codes on the Home Affairs portal.