Video: AI boom drives surge in immigration opportunities to Canada, Germany, Australia: Y-Axis

Dubai: The global artificial intelligence (AI) boom has not affected immigration trends or reduced the demand for foreign workers in popular countries like Canada, Australia, and Germany. Instead, these nations are introducing pathways specifically targeting IT professionals, creating numerous opportunities for UAE-based skilled workers across various industries seeking employment abroad, according to Clint Khan, Director at Y-Axis.

“While some creative jobs, such as graphic design and content writing, may have been impacted, the demand for IT professionals remains high, as AI is viewed as a tool that enhances jobs rather than eliminates them,” he explained.

Khan said, “Earlier, countries would select general skilled labour across various occupations. There’s a preference for critical skills, especially in sectors like healthcare, IT, and engineering.”

Several countries have established specific immigration pathways to attract skilled professionals in IT and AI. For example, Canada offers multiple pathways for IT professionals, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Global Talent Stream, which expedites the process for highly skilled tech workers.

“Germany's Opportunity Card also allows qualified non-EU professionals, including those in IT and AI, to work and reside in Germany,” explained Khan. Australia (Global Talent Visa programme) and the UK (also the Global Talent Visa programme) offer similar programmes.

In the US, the O1 visa is available for individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, including IT and AI. Khan’s comment follows the growing anti-immigration rhetoric across media platforms. However, skilled workers remain a cornerstone of global mobility, with countries refining their immigration policies to attract top talent.

Following the ongoing geopolitical crises, countries have shifted focus to more skilled migration, especially in logistics, healthcare, and supply chain fields. “There is demand for foreign workers, but it’s shifted to different job sectors. For example, marketing professionals are in less demand now,” Khan explained.

Changing landscape

Khan, who has been with Y-Axis for over 16 years, has grown the company’s business in the UAE tremendously. “In 2020, we had about 55 people, and now we have 120 staff members in the UAE. Our inquiries have also increased drastically—from around 8,000 inquiries per month in 2020 to over 20,000 now,” said Khan.

Y-Axis, which celebrated its 25th-anniversary last year, has observed a dramatic shift in immigration policies across popular destinations. Individual applicants also experience changing migration requirements.

“Post-pandemic migration trends have evolved. People are more conscious of living costs and are choosing smaller cities over major metropolitan areas to save money,” he said. For example, in Canada, they might opt for Calgary over Toronto, or in the UK, smaller cities over London. “At the same time, individuals prioritise high-paying job markets to offset living costs,” he stated. Khan said both countries and individuals are adapting to the changing economic landscape.

Additionally, countries have launched programmes like the digital nomad visa and the UAE’s freelance visa, which offer flexibility for professionals. “So, it’s a two-way process—countries are introducing new programs, and people are tuning into these trends,” he stated.

Regarding skilled migration, countries like Australia and Canada are top destinations. “They offer permanent residency programs based on skills, meaning you don’t necessarily need a job offer to move there. These programs are very active, with invitations being issued regularly,” said Khan.

“Australia is currently seeing significant demand for outbound migration from the UAE due to its strong job market. Germany is also popular, particularly as a gateway for those looking to move to Europe,” he said. While countries like Sweden, Italy, and France may not offer direct migration options, many individuals use Germany as a pathway.

On the inbound side, the UAE has become a hub, especially with initiatives like the Golden Visa and Green Visa, attracting high-skilled professionals and investors. “There’s also growing interest among Indian parents in sending their children to study in the UAE, given its proximity and excellent educational infrastructure,” explained Khan.

Khan said Y-Axis receive inquiries for UAE-bound migration from all over the world. “While we see significant interest from India, especially for business setups and job opportunities, we’re also getting inquiries from people in Australia and the UK looking to move to the UAE,” he said.

“In terms of business setup, many people are looking to establish themselves in the UAE, as it offers a pro-business environment with low corporate taxes,” he added.

While accommodation costs in the UAE may be on par with some countries, the lack of income tax makes it more affordable overall. “In countries like Canada, people may pay 30-40% per cent in income tax, which is a significant difference. Many migrants, after obtaining citizenship in places like Canada, are planning to move back to the UAE due to its tax advantages,” said Khan.