Over half a million skilled Poles plan to move to Germany after the country opens its labour market on 1 May, according to the Polish-German Chamber of Commerce.

The high demand for engineers and other skilled staff could spell trouble for Polish companies, which in order to maintain their staff will have to increase wages.

The German market also lacks painters, welders, mechanics and builders, and they too may be tempted with the offers of higher wages.

According to estimates by the Polish-German Chamber of Commerce, the wave of Polish migrants may exceed half a million people.

The greatest interest in travelling abroad is recorded in the regions bordering with Germany, where over 100,000 workers plan to find a better living in Germany.

The Polish Craft Association is being flooded with applications to confirm craft diplomas, which guarantee higher wages.

A worker without a diploma can earn 1200 euro monthly, with a diploma from 1600 to 2000. (ab)