Germany’s new Skilled Immigration Act (FEG) allows skilled workers with vocational training and practical knowledge to immigrate to Germany. The EU Blue Card is now extended, and a new Chancenkarte (opportunity card) allows third-country nationals to seek employment.
The new EU Blue Card from November 2023
The German legislator has implemented Directive (EU) 2021/1883 to widen migration possibilities with the EU Blue Card. The salary thresholds for the EU Blue Card in bottleneck professions and regular occupations will be significantly lowered. The possibility of obtaining an EU Blue Card will be opened to a wider group of people, including new entrants to the labor market and IT specialists with professional experience. The list of bottleneck professions for the EU Blue Card will be expanded, and holders of an EU Blue Card issued by another EU Member State will be entitled to short-term and long-term mobility in Germany. Furthermore, EU Blue Card holders can enjoy facilitated family reunification in Germany.
Further changes from November 2023
The German government has made changes to the legal bases for residence permits for skilled workers. Applicants meeting all requirements will now be entitled to a residence permit and will not be restricted to jobs related to their professional qualifications. The approval process for employing professional drivers from third countries has also been simplified, removing the need for a priority check and language skills. More information is available on the German government website.
New employment and recognition rules from March 2024
Germany has extended the scope relating to residence for participating in qualification measures. The previous 18-month residence permit for completing adaptation measures will now be granted for 24 months when issued for the first time, with a possibility to extend the permit for a further 12 months, up to a maximum residence period of three years. The amendment will give employers greater flexibility. The possibility of secondary employment during the qualification measure will be increased from 10 to 20 hours per week, making it easier for prospective skilled workers to find their way into the labor market. The new Skilled Immigration Act introduces two new access routes for receiving full recognition of foreign qualifications.
Further amendments from June 2024
Germany is introducing an opportunity card for job seekers to stay in the country. The card can be obtained by third-country nationals with full recognition of foreign qualifications or those with a foreign university degree, vocational qualification, or a vocational qualification issued by a German Chamber of Commerce Abroad. The card is issued for a maximum of one year and allows the holder to do work trials or take up secondary employment for a maximum of 20 hours per week. The Western Balkans Regulation, which grants access to the labor market for nationals of certain countries, will be extended indefinitely.
What steps must I take to become a skilled worker in Germany?
To live and work in Germany, you need recognized qualifications and language skills. Apply for recognition of foreign qualifications before entering Germany. Contact the “Working and Living in Germany” hotline for advice on recognition and immigration. German diplomatic missions issue visas in your home country. Contact your local authority for questions about visas while living in Germany.
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