Germany has rolled out new skilled immigration rules aimed at making it easier for skilled workers with practical knowledge to obtain residency in the country. The recent implementation of the Skilled Immigration Act introduces a set of regulations designed to streamline the immigration process for individuals with vocational training and practical experience.
Effective from March 1, the second phase of the Skilled Immigration Act came into force, following the initial rollout of new regulations for skilled worker immigration in November 2023. The third stage of the Act, slated to commence in June 2024, will introduce additional measures, including the issuance of a job search opportunity card.
Under the new Skilled Immigration Act, Germany extends a warm welcome to skilled workers from third countries outside the EU who possess at least two years of work experience and recognized vocational or higher education qualifications. This move is expected to make Germany more accessible to individuals seeking employment opportunities and professional growth.
One significant aspect of the Act is the extension of residence permits for participation in qualification measures, such as adaptation periods or preparatory courses with subsequent knowledge tests. Previously limited to a maximum of 18 months, these permits will now be issued for up to 24 months initially, with the possibility of extension for a further 12 months, totaling a maximum residence period of three years. Furthermore, visa holders will now be permitted to engage in secondary employment for up to 20 hours per week, doubling the previous limit.
The Act also facilitates family reunification for skilled workers by eliminating the requirement for proof of sufficient living space for spouses and underage children relocating to Germany. Additionally, skilled workers can now bring their parents and parents-in-law to join them in Germany under certain conditions.
Furthermore, the Act introduces streamlined procedures for settling in Germany for skilled workers who have not completed vocational training or a course of study in the country. Eligible individuals can obtain settlement permits after just three years, reduced from the previous four-year requirement.
For professions that are not regulated, the Act outlines simplified requirements for obtaining a work visa, including a recognized professional or university degree in the applicant’s home country, a minimum of two years’ work experience in the desired profession, and no formal recognition of qualifications in Germany.
Moreover, the Act includes special provisions for IT specialists, with reduced experience requirements and relaxed language proficiency criteria. The age limit for trainees seeking employment in Germany has also been raised to 35 years, with expanded opportunities for part-time employment and trial employment periods.
With these progressive measures, Germany aims to attract and retain skilled professionals from around the world, bolstering its workforce and fostering economic growth and innovation.
