This joint European Migration Network (EMN) – OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) inform examines new and innovative ways to attract foreign talent used by EMN Member Countries and selected non-EMN OECD countries, covering the period from January 2021 to March 2024. Based on input from 21 EMN Member Countries and data provided by the OECD, it reviews practical measures implemented by national authorities.
Since 2021, a total of 15 EMN Member Countries have introduced new or innovative approaches to attract foreign talent. The EMN inform focuses specifically on two groups of “foreign talent” – third-country nationals with higher professional qualifications or skills and individuals of all skill levels working in high value-added economic sectors.
EMN Member Countries use various funding strategies to attract foreign talent, including EU funds, national resources, and a combination of both. Nine of the 15 countries with new or innovative approaches reported relying on EU funds, initiatives and programmes, such as Talent Partnerships. Talent Partnerships provide a policy framework and funding to enhance international mobility by aligning EU labour market needs with skills from partner countries. Italy was the only country to report initiatives that rely solely on EU funding. Others use a combination of EU and national resources. Six EMN Member Countries fund their projects through national resources.
Digital platforms aimed at third-country nationals and employers are the most frequently used method to attract foreign talent. Four EMN Member Countries use websites to post vacancies for both domestic and third-country job applicants. Eleven have developed, and one is currently developing, online platforms specifically targeting employers wishing to hire foreign labour and prospective third-country national employees. Other initiatives include diplomatic efforts and tax incentives. For example, at least 24 OECD countries offer tax relief programmes for foreign migrants and returning nationals, including flat tax rates for highly qualified workers or specialists.
Some EMN Member Countries use skill development and assistance programmes to support foreign talent throughout the migration process. Six EMN Member Countries are implementing or planning programmes to validate and develop skills in third countries, while thirteen provide third-country nationals with pre- and post-arrival assistance, such as relocation information and cultural orientation.
