Enhancing Attractiveness for Highly Skilled Migrants: A Comparative Study of Targeted Policies and Incentives in Italy and Germany

Abstract

In the dynamic landscape of global migration, nations seek to attract highly skilled migrants to invigorate their economies and promote innovation. The present study investigates the impact of specific policies and incentives implemented by Italy and Germany directed at high-skilled migrants. Although the two countries possess historical appeal, modern developments show that Germany has demonstrated to be more capable in attracting high skilled talent. This research analyses the effectiveness of targeted immigration policies and incentives to enhance Italy's attractiveness compared to Germany.

With a blending of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, the study focuses on a heterogeneous sample of highly skilled foreign workers. The survey sample is composed of people from various cultural and political backgrounds who have chosen Italy or Germany as their destination country. In the form of video interviews or written questionnaires, the respondents offer insights into their motivations, expectations and experiences. The anonymity of the answers guarantees honest feedbacks, supporting a rich understanding of the migration experience.

The first part of the research explores the relevant strategies and policies that both countries currently have in place using existing literature, while the second examines the dynamics and bureaucratic issues that obstacle high-skilled migrants after their arrival in the receiving country by analyzing the results obtained from the interviews. Moreover, the answers provided by the survey participants also reveal a deep view of the determining factors that high-skilled migrants consider as priorities for the choice of their destination. A cross-analysis highlights the positive aspects of the two countries, underlining which are the crucial aspects that shapes migration choices. Finally, the study provides pragmatic recommendations to Italian public bodies to make more efficient procedures and interactions with this category of workers in order to increase the appeal of the Country, by supporting a more personalized approach in accordance with the multiple expectations of these migrants.

This research aims to provide a substantial contribution to the current discourse on global migration dynamics and provides input for specific policy deliberations aligned with the evolving needs of skilled migrants. To ensure that nations fully valorize the talents of these qualified people, it is undoubtedly necessary to attempt to gain a deeper understanding of the key factors that influence their decision-making processes.