Migration Skill Corridor Report: Philippines-Germany  

This report examines skilled migration between the Philippines and Germany, focusing on the recruitment of Filipino nurses and the effectiveness of bilateral cooperation in addressing Germany’s healthcare labour shortages. Drawing on interviews with policymakers, practitioners and migrant nurses, it assesses the interaction between government-led programmes, including the Triple Win agreement and Global Skills Partnerships, and private recruitment channels.

The findings reveal that, despite well-established bilateral arrangements, recruitment remains constrained by demanding German language requirements, lengthy qualification recognition procedures and administrative delays. Private recruitment agencies account for most placements, while government programmes offer stronger safeguards but operate on a relatively limited scale.

The report highlights the potential of Global Skills Partnerships to combine international recruitment with investments in nursing education and training in the Philippines. It recommends simplifying recognition procedures, strengthening ethical recruitment standards and expanding investment in the Philippine healthcare workforce to ensure that skilled migration delivers more balanced and sustainable benefits for both countries.