EuroKompis
Professions in demand / Plumbers and welders

Plumbers and welders: where you are wanted

Skilled trades are among Europe's most persistent shortages. In the UK and Sweden, welders get easier visa terms.

Demand in the eight countries

UKUnited Kingdom
Shortage list

Plumbers, pipe fitters and welders are on the Temporary Shortage List. Source

SESweden
Shortage list

Welders are on Sweden's list of occupations with a lower salary requirement for work permits. Source

IEIreland
High demand

Listed in the EURES 2025 report. A General Employment Permit is possible with a job offer. Source

NLNetherlands
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

DEGermany
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

FRFrance
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

PTPortugal
High demand

Plumbers are listed in the EURES 2025 report. Source

ESSpain
Possible

Plumbers and welders are not listed in the EURES 2025 report. Source

Shortage list On an official government shortage list or a dedicated visa route, which usually makes the visa easier or cheaper.High demand Reported as a shortage occupation in the EU's 2025 EURES labour shortages report.Possible No shortage reported. Still possible with a job offer that meets the normal visa rules.Limited Few or no work visa options for this profession at the moment.

Language

Outside the UK and Ireland, the local language is usually needed on site.

Who recognises your qualification

Verify your South African qualification with SAQA first. Other countries use their national recognition body, listed on each country guide.

See your full picture

Your passport, family and salary decide which routes actually open up.

Check my optionsTalk to Us

Other professions

NursesDoctorsPharmacistsPhysiotherapistsSocial workersTeachersChartered accountantsCivil engineersMechanical and electrical engineersSoftware developers and ITElectriciansChefs

Checked on 16 October 2026 against official shortage lists and the EU's 2025 EURES labour shortages report. General information, not immigration advice.