Germany’s new specialised personnel immigration law seeks to attract more qualified workers from non-EU countries. The Foreign Office issued over 80,000 work permit visas in the first half of this year. More than half of these visas went to skilled workers, a significant increase from the previous fiscal year, which saw about 37,000 visas issued to skilled workers.
In 2023, the Foreign Office issued over 157,000 work permit visas, including 79,000 for skilled workers. The Opportunity Card, introduced on June 1, however, had had minimal impact, with only about 200 visas issued under this program.
The basic requirements for the Opportunity Card – work permit visas include at least two years of recognized vocational training or an equivalent university degree, and language skills in German or English. Applicants receive points based on language proficiency, professional experience, age, and connections to Germany. Additional points are awarded for qualifications in shortage occupations. Those who accumulate enough points can come to Germany and have one year to find a permanent job, with a possible two-year extension under certain conditions.
Germany’s Skilled Immigration Law, effective in 2020, was reformed in November 2023 to simplify procedures for the “Blue Card EU” and recognize skilled workers. Since March, skilled workers with a degree and professional experience can work in Germany without prior recognition procedures if they have a job offer with a gross annual salary of at least €40,770. If the employer is bound by a collective agreement, the salary must align with that agreement.
Opportunities for skilled workers from Western Balkan countries expanded on June 1. EU citizens have the right to choose their place of work freely within the European Union. The number of non-EU workers coming to Germany also depends on the complexity of the visa application process and the waiting time for an appointment at a German embassy or consulate.
The Foreign Office prioritises work visas for skilled workers. The digitalization of the visa procedure, expected to be completed by January 1, 2025, aims to streamline the application process and potentially increase the number of skilled workers from non-EU countries coming to Germany.
By prioritising work permit visas for professional workers and digitalizing the visa procedure, Germany aims to address labour shortages and attract more qualified professionals to its workforce.
