- Nahles expects about 800,000 jobs to disappear over 15 years through AI, with a similar number of new jobs.
- Business services and analytical roles in banks and insurers are most affected; skilled trades look robust.
- Germany loses about 500,000 workers net each year for demographic reasons.
- She called for the planned Work and Stay Agency for skilled workers from outside the EU.
In an interview published by Handelsblatt on 10 November 2026, Andrea Nahles, head of the Federal Employment Agency, said she expects about 800,000 jobs in Germany to disappear through artificial intelligence over the next 15 years, with a similar number of new jobs created.
Who is affected
- Business services and analytical jobs in banks and insurers are hit harder.
- Skilled trades look fairly robust.
- Graduates take longer to start their careers.
Why Germany still needs workers
Nahles pointed out that Germany loses about 500,000 workers net every year because of demographics, and she called for the planned Work and Stay Agency, which is meant to make hiring from outside the EU faster. Read my update on the agency.
What it means for you
- Choose fields with long term demand. Healthcare, trades, engineering and many technical roles.
- Combine your field with AI skills. People who use AI well in their field are more valuable.
- Keep learning German. It protects you in a changing market.
Common questions
Should I avoid data and analytics careers?
No, but expect routine tasks to be automated. Focus on judgement, domain knowledge and communication.
Are trades a good option?
Demand is strong, but most trades need German and recognised training.
Is this an official forecast?
It is the agency head's expectation in an interview, not a formal forecast.
I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.