Outsourcing to Eastern European companies is one of the most popular ways for many German companies to find talented and cost-effective professionals.

Among the well-known destinations in Eastern Europe for outsourcing is Kosovo, the newest state in Europe. With its exceptional combination of advantages and opportunities, including its excellent German language skills, it has become a preferred solution for the services of many European companies, particularly German companies.

Why does Kosovo have such a close relationship with Germany?

Germany holds the distinction of being one of the first countries to officially recognize and establish diplomatic relations with the Republic of Kosovo immediately following its declaration of independence in February 2008.

Germany was one of the key countries in the NATO coalition that intervened to stop violence and human rights violations in Kosovo. It provided emergency assistance, particularly in supplying water and electricity to the Kosovar population in general, and accepted thousands of refugees from Kosovo during the armed conflict that took place between 1998 and 1999.

According to the Federal Foreign Office, Germany is home to the largest Kosovar diaspora in the world, with a total exceeding 350,000 Kosovars.

Germany is one of Kosovo's strategic partners and plays an important role in supporting its path toward membership in international organizations and strengthening its state institutions.

Why do German businesses consider Kosovo ideal for outsourcing their services?

Based on the Doing Business Rating published by the World Bank, Kosovo has achieved an impressive overall score of 73.2 out of 100, positioning it as a highly favorable destination for outsourcing.

Multinational companies such as Vodafone, DHL, Teleperformance, and Sutherland have recognized the talent and potential in Kosovo and choose to work with Kosovar professionals, benefiting from their skills and expertise. The presence of these renowned multinational corporations in Kosovo highlights the attractiveness of the local workforce and their ability to deliver high-quality service esspecially in the field of technology.

Kosovars are fluent in the German language

In Kosovo, hundreds of thousands of people speak German fluently. The significance of Germany to the Kosovar people goes beyond its role as the home of the largest Kosovar diaspora worldwide. This diaspora connection has fostered cultural ties and a deep appreciation for the German language among the Kosovar community.

Kosovo's history is marked by a period of armed conflict, during which many Kosovar families sought refuge. When they eventually returned to Kosovo, they brought back with them the linguistic skills they had acquired in Germany, thereby significantly contributing to the widespread proficiency of the German language among the population.

The youngest population in EU

Kosovo boasts one of the most youthful populations in Europe, with nearly half of its residents being under the age of 25, and 19% falling within the 15-24 age range. The average age in Kosovo in 2021 stood at 30.50 years. With the availability of language skills and the influence of the Kosovo diaspora, it is unsurprising that many businesses in the country cater to German-speaking markets.

The call center sector in Kosovo is predominantly driven by young individuals, as 83.7% of those employed in this field are aged 35 years or below. This age group dominates the industry, showcasing the preference for young professionals in call center roles.

In addition to having a young population, Kosovo also boasts a highly educated workforce. The country places a strong emphasis on education, with a significant number of its citizens pursuing higher education and professional development.

Kosovo’s strategic location

Kosovo, situated in Southeast Europe, stands out as an attractive destination for nearshore outsourcing services, offering a host of advantages derived from its strategic location. Its close proximity to Southeastern Europe facilitates convenient and cost-effective collaboration, making it an appealing choice for businesses.The accessibility factor plays a pivotal role in fostering successful partnerships. With short flight durations, such as the approximately three-hour direct flight from Berlin to Pristina, travel logistics become seamless. This proximity enables regular and affordable visits, providing opportunities for closer collaboration, face-to-face meetings, and strengthened relationships with partners and clients.

Another notable advantage of outsourcing in Kosovo is its timezone. Located in the Central European Time (CET) zone, Kosovo shares time compatibility with many European countries, enabling real-time communication and streamlined coordination. This eliminates potential challenges arising from significant time differences that can hinder efficient collaboration.

Additionally, an advantage worth highlighting is Kosovo's use of the Euro as its currency. The adoption of the Euro simplifies financial transactions, enhances financial stability, and reduces currency conversion complexities for international businesses operating in Kosovo.

The Remarkable Level of Internet Penetration in the Entire Region

Kosovo leads the region with the highest internet penetration rate, as an impressive 95% of households in the country enjoy access to high-quality internet. In today's digital age, fast and reliable internet connectivity is crucial for business success, and Kosovo has already surpassed this requirement.

A 2019 report by Eurostat highlights that Kosovo ranks among the top European countries in terms of internet access at home. This robust internet infrastructure provides a solid foundation for businesses operating in Kosovo, enabling them to leverage the power of digital technologies and stay connected in an increasingly interconnected world.