Migrating to Magdeburg is an emerging option for skilled workers in semiconductors in eastern Germany. Magdeburg will host a major Intel plant. This article analyses the city for skilled migrants.
Migrating to Magdeburg: a transforming job market
Migrating to Magdeburg means joining a rapidly developing job market, driven by Intel’s investment in building Europe’s largest semiconductor manufacturing cluster here (expected to be operational by the late 2020s). There are also opportunities in mechanical engineering, logistics and energy.
Skilled workers in semiconductors, engineering, IT, mechanical engineering or logistics can find opportunities. Otto von Guericke University is strong in engineering and medicine. Note: the timeline and scale of Intel’s investment may change over time.
Life and cost of living in Magdeburg
Magdeburg has the most comfortable cost of living and rent among Germany’s state capitals. The city sits on the Elbe River, with plenty of green space and architecture blending history and modernity.
The climate is continental with cold winters. Its medium size provides necessary amenities. Its central German location (about 1.5 hours by train from Berlin) allows easy access to the capital when needed.
Vietnamese community and notes
Magdeburg has a modest Vietnamese community dating from the East German era. Newcomers can connect with the larger communities in Berlin or Leipzig.
Skilled migration to Magdeburg still follows the federal system via the FEG, with no city-specific stream. Choosing a city is about choosing where to settle; you should check current requirements.
You should refer to the Make it in Germany portal and German Federal Employment Agency to check current conditions.
Summary
Migrating to Magdeburg: the capital of Saxony-Anhalt, where Intel is investing in Europe’s largest semiconductor cluster (expected operational in the late 2020s). Jobs in semiconductors, engineering, IT, mechanical engineering, and logistics (Otto von Guericke University). The most comfortable cost of living among state capitals. A modest Vietnamese community. Migration conditions follow the FEG; you should check current requirements.
