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Increasing numbers of emigrants: Why qualified Germans are leaving the country and what you can do about it
More and more Germans are moving abroad. But what are the reasons for this trend? High taxes, bureaucracy, or perhaps the search for new challenges? GoMovin understands your motivations and offers you an all-in-one solution for your international relocation. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and find out how we can make your move smooth. You can find more information in our contact section.
The topic short and concise
More and more Germans are moving abroad. But what are the reasons for this trend? High taxes, bureaucracy, or perhaps the search for new challenges? GoMovin understands your motivations and offers you an all-in-one solution for your international relocation. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and find out how we can make your move smooth. You can find more information in our contact section.
More and more Germans are moving abroad. But what are the reasons for this trend? High taxes, bureaucracy, or perhaps the search for new challenges? GoMovin understands your motivations and offers you an all-in-one solution for your international relocation. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and find out how we can make your move smooth. You can find more information in our contact section.
More and more Germans are moving abroad. But what are the reasons for this trend? High taxes, bureaucracy, or perhaps the search for new challenges? GoMovin understands your motivations and offers you an all-in-one solution for your international relocation. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and find out how we can make your move smooth. You can find more information in our contact section.
Discover why more and more Germans are emigrating and how GoMovin makes your move abroad stress-free and efficient. We offer comprehensive support – from the initial consultation to successful integration.
Overview of Increasing Emigration
Germany is faced with a growing number of emigrants, a trend affecting various population groups. The reasons are diverse, from economic considerations to personal desires for a changed lifestyle. It is important to understand the background of this development in order to take appropriate measures. The ZDF reports that in 2023 around 265,000 German citizens emigrated, while 191,000 returned. This net loss highlights the need to strengthen Germany's attractiveness as a place to live and work.
Importance of Analysing Emigration Trends
Understanding the causes and impacts of emigration is crucial for effectively shaping future political and economic strategies. A well-founded analysis helps to identify the needs and motivations of emigrants and to develop targeted measures to minimise the loss of skilled workers. The Cicero analysis shows that many highly qualified professionals are leaving Germany, which can have long-term consequences for the German economy. A detailed examination of emigration trends is essential to draw the right conclusions and pave the way for a successful future.
We at GoMovin understand that emigration is a big step. That's why we offer you comprehensive support for your international relocation. From the initial consultation to successful integration, we are by your side to make your move as stress-free and efficient as possible. Plan your move with us.
Economic benefits abroad attract emigrants
Economic Factors
The economic incentives abroad play a crucial role in the decision of many Germans to leave their homeland. Attractive job offers, higher salaries, and lower taxes are often decisive for this step. The Gründerfreunde report that economic factors such as high unemployment and insecure working conditions motivate many people to look for new opportunities abroad.
Better Job Offers and Higher Salaries Abroad
Many emigrants seek more attractive career prospects and better earning opportunities abroad. According to an analysis by the Prognos Institute, 68% of emigrants seek better job offers and higher salaries abroad. This shows that Germany is increasingly losing its attractiveness in the international competition for skilled workers. The possibility of advancing professionally abroad and achieving a higher income is a strong incentive for many to turn their backs on Germany.
High Tax and Social Security Burdens
The high tax burden in Germany is perceived by many as an encumbrance. 38% of emigrants indicate that high tax and social security contributions are a reason for their decision. Compared to other countries, Germany offers fewer financial incentives for high performers and entrepreneurs. This leads many skilled professionals and the self-employed to try their luck abroad, where they can pay less tax and retain more of their income.
Corporate Taxes and Bureaucracy
Lower corporate taxes and less bureaucracy in other countries attract entrepreneurs. The Gründerfreunde emphasize that lower corporate taxes and reduced bureaucracy in other countries also attract entrepreneurs. Germany is often perceived as bureaucratic and unfriendly to businesses, leading many founders and entrepreneurs to build their businesses abroad, where they find better conditions.
We at GoMovin support you with all questions regarding emigration. We help you find the best economic conditions for your new start abroad and assist you with all administrative tasks.
Political discontent accelerates emigration
Social and Political Factors
In addition to economic aspects, social and political factors also play a crucial role in the decision to emigrate. Dissatisfaction with political leadership, lack of appreciation for success and entrepreneurship, as well as xenophobia and intolerance, can lead people to leave Germany. The NDR reports that many Germans are emigrating to southern Denmark due to dissatisfaction with German politics.
Dissatisfaction with Political Leadership
Some emigrants are dissatisfied with German politics, particularly concerning the coronavirus pandemic and migration issues. 61% of emigrants to Denmark stated that dissatisfaction with German politics was a reason for their decision. This shows that political decisions and social developments can directly influence the willingness to emigrate. Stable and trustworthy political leadership is therefore crucial to strengthening citizens' trust in the state.
Lack of Appreciation for Success and Entrepreneurship
Some criticize a lack of recognition for achievement and innovation. The Cicero analysis shows that some emigrants lament a lack of appreciation for success and entrepreneurship in Germany. They feel insufficiently promoted and supported, which leads them to seek their fortune abroad, where they expect more recognition and better conditions for their ideas and projects.
Xenophobia and Lack of Tolerance
Some emigrants report xenophobia and intolerance as triggers for their decision. The DIW reports that a lack of a welcoming culture significantly contributes to the emigration of highly qualified workers and experts, as they often have difficulties integrating and feeling appreciated. About 19 percent of people from North Africa and 1.9 percent of Germans have concrete plans to emigrate due to xenophobia and lack of tolerance.
At GoMovin, we are committed to an open and tolerant society. We support you in integrating into your new home country and help you feel at ease quickly. Find out about our services for expats.
Personal motives drive young people abroad
Personal Reasons
Besides the economic and political reasons, personal motives also play a crucial role in the decision to emigrate. The desire for new experiences, a higher quality of life, and family reasons are often decisive factors for this step. The SVR Migration reports, that young, highly qualified individuals and childless couples primarily seek new experiences, career advancement, and partnership opportunities.
Seeking New Experiences and Quality of Life
Many young people and couples are looking for new challenges and a higher quality of life abroad. They want to broaden their horizons, learn about new cultures, and advance their personal and professional development. The opportunity to live and work abroad offers them the chance to rediscover themselves and push their own boundaries.
Family Reasons
An improved standard of living for the family is an important factor. Many emigrants want to provide their children with a better future, whether through better educational opportunities, a higher quality of life, or a safer environment. They are willing to leave their home country and start a new life abroad.
We at GoMovin understand that emigration is a family decision. We support you with all questions concerning moving with children and help you find the best solution for your family.
Highly skilled individuals are leaving Germany
Demographic Characteristics of Emigrants
Emigration predominantly affects certain demographic groups. Young, highly qualified professionals and executives, as well as academics and managers, leave Germany disproportionately often. This has significant implications for the German labour market and the country's capacity for innovation. The ZDF reports that emigrants are typically around 35 years old and hold a high academic degree (76% with a university degree).
Age and Qualifications
The typical emigrant is about 32 years old and possesses high qualifications. 76% of emigrants hold an academic degree. This indicates that Germany is losing mainly highly qualified professionals who see better career opportunities and earnings abroad. Therefore, it is important to enhance Germany's attractiveness as a workplace for this target group.
Academics and Executives
Germany loses an above-average number of academics. The Cicero analysis shows that Germany loses an above-average number of academics. This is particularly problematic, as academics play an important role in a country's capacity for innovation and economic success. It is therefore crucial to take measures to halt the loss of academics and make Germany more attractive again for this target group.
Marital Status
Many emigrants are young, childless couples or families with children. They seek better living conditions abroad for themselves and their families. This shows that emigration is not only an individual issue but also a societal problem that can influence Germany's future.
At GoMovin, we support you with all questions regarding emigration with your family. We help you find the best solution for your individual situation and assist you with all administrative tasks.
Switzerland, Austria, and the USA are top destinations for emigrants
Destination countries for emigrants
The choice of destination country depends on various factors such as economic attractiveness, quality of life and cultural aspects. The most popular destination countries are Switzerland, Austria, and the USA. However, Southern Denmark is also experiencing an influx of German citizens. The ZDF reports that Switzerland, Austria, and the USA are the most popular destination countries for German emigrants.
Most popular destinations
The most popular destination countries are Switzerland, Austria, and the USA. These countries offer attractive job markets, high quality of life and good earning prospects. They are therefore particularly attractive to highly skilled professionals and entrepreneurs looking for new opportunities abroad.
Southern Denmark
Southern Denmark is experiencing an influx of German citizens, particularly in the communities of Sonderburg, Apenrade, Tondern, and Hadersleben. The NDR reports that the immigration of German citizens to Southern Denmark has increased by over 80% between 1 January 2020 and 1 January 2024. This shows that less traditional emigration destinations are also gaining importance. Its proximity to Germany, high quality of life and attractive property prices make Southern Denmark a popular destination for German emigrants.
Reasons for choosing a destination country
Countries with growing job markets like Canada, Australia, and the USA are particularly attractive. These countries offer good career opportunities and high earning potential. They are therefore particularly appealing to young people seeking their professional future abroad.
Economic attractiveness
Some emigrants are looking for a better quality of life, a different culture, or better educational opportunities. They want to broaden their horizons and gain new experiences. The choice of destination country therefore also depends on personal preferences and individual needs.
We at GoMovin support you in choosing the right destination country. We provide comprehensive advice on the various possibilities and help you find the best solution for your individual situation.
Impact of Emigration Threatens Skilled Workforce Base
Effects of Emigration
Emigration has significant effects on the German economy and society. The loss of skilled workers, innovative capacity, and entrepreneurship can have long-term consequences. It is therefore important to address the causes of emigration and make Germany more attractive for skilled workers again. The DIW reports that emigration has serious economic and societal consequences as it exacerbates the shortage of skilled workers and reduces openness, tolerance, and diversity.
Economic Consequences
Emigration can exacerbate the shortage of skilled workers in Germany. The loss of highly qualified professionals and academics can impair the country's innovative capacity and economic success. It is therefore important to take measures to combat the shortage of skilled workers and make Germany more attractive to them again.
Shortage of Skilled Workers
The loss of entrepreneurs and highly qualified specialists can weaken the country's innovative strength. Entrepreneurs and professionals are vital drivers of innovation and growth. If they leave Germany, it can have negative effects on the country's competitiveness. It is therefore important to create a business-friendly environment and promote innovation to prevent the loss of entrepreneurs and skilled workers.
Social Consequences
Emigration can lead to a loss of diversity and tolerance within society. When people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives leave Germany, it can reduce societal diversity and lead to less tolerance towards other cultures. It is therefore important to promote an open and tolerant society to prevent the loss of diversity and tolerance.
Loss of Diversity and Tolerance
Emigration can accelerate demographic changes and contribute to an aging population. If particularly young people leave Germany, it can lead to an aging population and strain social security systems. It is therefore important to take measures to reduce the emigration of young people and increase the birth rate.
We at GoMovin are committed to a strong and diverse society. We support you in integrating into your new home country and help you to feel at home quickly.
Return migration strengthens Germany's innovative capacity
Return Migration
A portion of emigrants returns after a few years. Family reasons play a significant role in their return. Returnees bring new skills and intercultural competences, from which Germany benefits. The SVR Migration reports that a considerable number of returnees consider future emigration, which highlights the cyclical nature of international mobility.
Return Migration Rate
Many German emigrants return after several years. This shows that emigration is often just a temporary farewell. Therefore, it is important to encourage the return of emigrants and facilitate their reintegration into the German job market.
Reasons for Returning
Family reasons are a significant factor for returning. Many emigrants return to be close to their family or to care for elderly relatives. This shows that family ties play an important role in the decision for or against emigration.
Benefits of Return Migration
Returnees bring new skills and intercultural competences. They have gained valuable experiences abroad, which they can contribute in Germany. This can enhance the country's innovation and competitiveness.
New Skills and Intercultural Competences
Germany benefits from the experiences and networks of returnees. Returnees often have a broad network of contacts abroad, from which Germany can benefit. They can help to strengthen relationships between Germany and other countries and promote international exchange.
We at GoMovin support you with all questions regarding return migration. We help you reintegrate into Germany and make the most of your skills and experiences gained abroad.
Germany must increase its attractiveness for skilled workers
Measures Against Emigration
To reduce emigration and make Germany more attractive to skilled workers again, various measures are required. Tax reforms for high incomes, reducing bureaucracy, and promoting entrepreneurship are important economic policy measures. An open and tolerant society, as well as a high quality of life, are important social policy measures. The Cicero analysis suggests that a tax reform for high incomes is proposed to counteract this trend.
Economic Policy Measures
The BDI proposes tax reforms for high incomes to reduce emigration. Reducing the tax burden on high incomes could make Germany more attractive for skilled workers and entrepreneurs. However, it is important to consider the impact of these tax reforms on the state budget.
Tax Reforms for High Incomes
Less bureaucracy can make Germany more attractive to companies. Reducing bureaucracy can make it easier to start and run businesses and make Germany more attractive to investors. However, it is important that reducing bureaucracy does not lead to a deterioration of environmental and social standards.
Reducing Bureaucracy
Stronger support for entrepreneurship can boost the country's innovation strength. Promoting entrepreneurship can help create new jobs and strengthen the country's competitiveness. However, it is important that promoting entrepreneurship does not lead to the exploitation of workers.
Promoting Entrepreneurship
An open and tolerant society can help retain and attract skilled workers. A society that values diversity and tolerance is more attractive to skilled workers from abroad. It is therefore important to promote an open and tolerant society and combat discrimination.
Social Policy Measures
A high quality of life can make Germany more attractive to skilled workers. A high quality of life includes good healthcare, a good education system, a clean environment, and a diverse cultural offering. It is therefore important to invest in these areas to improve the quality of life in Germany.
Promoting a Culture of Welcome
Emigration from Germany is a complex phenomenon with diverse causes and effects. Germany must face the challenges of emigration and seize the opportunities to remain an attractive location for skilled workers. We at GoMovin support you with all questions regarding emigration. We provide comprehensive advice on the various possibilities and help you find the best solution for your individual situation.
State subsidies for moving abroad offer an excellent opportunity to invest in your international future. Whether it's a fresh start in your career or the realization of a long-held dream, the available support programs and our expertise make moving abroad attractive and achievable.
With our comprehensive advice and support in choosing the right destination country, meeting all legal requirements, navigating the relocation process, and avoiding potential issues, there are numerous possibilities to make your move successful.
By choosing to move with GoMovin, you are investing in your personal and professional future. Not only do you reduce your stress and ensure a smooth transition, but you also benefit from our many years of experience and our global network.
Now is the perfect time to explore the possibilities for your move. Contact us today to start your individual consultation and plan your move quickly and easily. Register for free and receive an initial assessment of your moving needs immediately.
Further useful links
The ZDF reports on the reasons, goals, and countries of German emigrants in 2023.
The Cicero Analysis sheds light on why highly qualified professionals are leaving Germany and the consequences for the German economy.
The NDR reports on the increasing migration of German citizens to southern Denmark due to dissatisfaction with German politics.
The DIW analyses the economic and social consequences of emigration and the reality of so-called “remigration”.
SVR Migration examines why emigration is often just a temporary farewell and what motives underlie the return migration.
FAQ
What advantages does migration counselling from GoMovin offer?
GoMovin provides comprehensive counselling that covers all aspects of migration, from planning to integration. We help you to save time, reduce stress, and minimise risks.
How does GoMovin assist with finding accommodation abroad?
We have a global network and support you in finding the right property abroad, whether for rent or purchase. We take into account your individual needs and preferences.
What legal aspects need to be considered when migrating and how does GoMovin help with them?
Migration brings numerous legal challenges, such as visa regulations, work permits, and tax issues. GoMovin offers you professional legal advice and assists you in completing all formalities.
How does GoMovin aid integration into a new country?
We provide tailored integration programmes to help you quickly settle in your new home country. These include language courses, cultural training, and job search support.
Which countries are particularly attractive to German emigrants and why?
Switzerland, Austria, and the USA are popular destinations due to their economic attractiveness, high quality of life, and good earning opportunities. Southern Denmark is also gaining in importance.
Which demographic groups most frequently emigrate from Germany?
Primarily, young, highly skilled professionals and executives, as well as academics, disproportionately leave Germany to seek better career opportunities abroad.
What economic factors drive emigration from Germany?
Attractive job offers, higher salaries, lower taxes, and less bureaucracy abroad are often crucial factors in the decision to leave Germany.
How does emigration affect the German labour market?
Emigration can exacerbate the shortage of skilled workers in Germany and affect the country's innovative strength. Therefore, it is important to take action to make Germany more attractive to skilled workers again.
