Record Number of Germans Move Abroad

A record number of German citizens moved abroad last year, while a separate survey suggests that many high-income workers are considering following them.

Official figures show that 288,579 German citizens left the country in 2025, the highest number since records began in 1950. With 191,890 returning, Germany recorded a net loss of 96,689 citizens – its worst figure since 2017.

A survey commissioned by the job platform Indeed among 1,000 full- and part-time employees found that 67.2% would consider working abroad. About 30% had actively searched for overseas jobs in the previous 12 months and 10% had submitted an application.

Of those contemplating a move, 43% favored spending several years abroad and 34.5% were considering leaving permanently. Interest was particularly strong among respondents with a monthly household net income of at least €6,000 ($6,860), 54% of whom had recently applied for jobs or explored opportunities overseas.

Higher pay and a better quality of life were the most frequently cited reasons, followed by a more pleasant climate and lower taxes and social security contributions. Only 24% cited better career prospects. Indeed search data showed the greatest interest in the United States, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

(welt, bak)