Baden-Württemberg Advances Skilled Healthcare Worker Immigration with New Initiatives and International Cooperation

On November 3, 2025, Baden-Württemberg hosted the fourth round table on immigration in health and nursing professions in Stuttgart, focusing on addressing the critical shortage of skilled healthcare workers. Led by Social and Health Minister Manne Lucha and Justice Minister Marion Gentges, the event gathered representatives from professional associations, municipal state bodies, chambers, the Federal Employment Agency, and Stuttgart's government office to discuss progress and further steps to secure skilled personnel in healthcare.

Minister Lucha underscored the indispensable role of international skilled workers for the sustainability of healthcare services, stating, "Without international professionals, it will not work. They are a central component to ensure healthcare provision in the future." He emphasized accelerating the recognition of foreign qualifications and streamlining immigration procedures as key priorities.

Since April 2025, the newly established State Agency for Skilled Worker Immigration (LZF), operating in Stuttgart and Karlsruhe, has become a pivotal advisory and coordination center. The agency received approximately 600 applications specifically for expedited health and nursing profession immigration processes and about 1,600 applications overall. Its fully digitized procedures have significantly eased burdens on employers and authorities. Justice Minister Gentges highlighted the agency as a "success model providing rapid and concrete solutions."

Government President Susanne Bay remarked on the persistent challenges of meeting skilled worker demand in healthcare and the crucial role of the Stuttgart government office, supported by the LZF and State Recognition Office, in tackling these issues.

International collaboration remains a strategic focus, particularly the partnership with the Indian state of Maharashtra aimed at recruiting nursing professionals. Minister Lucha announced plans to lead a delegation to India later in the year to build cooperation and networks.

All participants agreed that ensuring long-term healthcare security in Baden-Württemberg requires cooperative efforts, fair migration policies, and swift qualification recognition. Established in 2023, the round table continues to foster immigration and integration initiatives for healthcare professionals in the region.