Eurobarometer highlights perceived obstacles and opportunities for European small and medium companies in recruiting skilled workers outside the EU

A new Eurobarometer survey shows that nearly half of European small and medium companies (SMEs) (46%) face difficulties in finding workers with the right skills.

Recruitment of non-EU nationals remains limited, according to the survey. One in seven small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have attempted hiring workers outside the EU in the past two years. Among those that have recruited non-EU nationals (14% of the sample), 54% described the recruitment process as difficult.

The complexity of administrative and immigration procedures is the most frequently cited barrier (31%), followed by difficulty finding suitable candidates (25%) and overcoming the language barriers (24%).

Most companies (85% to 90%) directly manage the recruitment workers from outside the EU, according to the survey. There is limited awareness among SMEs of public support for international recruitment. The use of private recruitment agencies is significantly higher for international recruitment.

The companies consulted suggest that hiring outside the EU could be improved through financial support (31%), information and guidance (25%), assistance in finding candidates (23%), help with workplace integration (20%), and immigration and relocation support (18%).

More information is available in the press release.