Saxony-Anhalt's foreign workforce surges as businesses adapt to labor shortages

Saxony-Anhalt is seeing a steady rise in foreign workers. Nearly 9 percent of its employees now come from abroad, up from far lower numbers a decade ago. This growth is the fastest among eastern German states between 2020 and 2025. The number of businesses hiring international staff in Saxony-Anhalt has more than doubled since 2015. Today, one in four companies employs foreign workers. The share of foreign social security-contributing employees has quadrupled over the past ten years.

Larger businesses are leading this trend. They are more likely to take on foreign employees than smaller firms. Yet nearly three-quarters of companies still do not hire internationally, often citing uncertainty or lack of experience.

Demographic shifts are making immigration vital for the region’s labour market. Experts argue that integrating foreign employees will be key to tackling Saxony-Anhalt’s skilled worker shortage. The region now has the highest growth rate of foreign employment in eastern Germany. With nearly 9 percent of workers coming from abroad, the trend is expected to continue. Businesses will need to adapt to rely more on international staff in the coming years.