Engineering and manufacturing

From India to Europe

Engineering professionals are on shortage lists across Europe, and Germany's industrial base is particularly short of mechanical, electrical, automation and civil engineers. Technicians with vocational training, such as mechatronics technicians and CNC machinists, are also in demand.

Routes and requirements

• Graduate engineers usually qualify for the EU Blue Card. In Germany, engineering is a shortage occupation with a lower salary threshold in 2026.
• Technicians with vocational training can use national skilled worker permits, provided the training is recognised. Germany's recognition system is the most developed.
• Germany's Opportunity Card lets qualified people search for a job on the ground for up to a year.

Language: many engineering employers accept English for the first months, but German, French or Dutch quickly becomes important for promotion and daily life. See our engineers in Germany guide.

From Europe to India

European manufacturers in automotive, machinery, chemicals, electrical equipment and defence-related industries are expanding production in India, often to serve both the domestic market and exports. They look for European engineers to:

• start up new lines and plants
• implement quality systems and certifications
• transfer process know-how and train local teams
• lead R&D and engineering centres

Our guide to European expertise in demand in India explains typical roles and contracts.

Business opportunities

• Sourcing components and sub-assemblies from Indian suppliers (see sourcing from India)
• Indian engineering firms acquiring or partnering with European SMEs
• Engineering services: design, simulation and testing delivered from India for European clients
• Lower tariffs for many industrial goods once the EU–India FTA enters into force