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The shortage of skilled workers is affecting the country's economy and prosperity. More open immigration laws for skilled workers from abroad are intended to counteract this shortage. Germany is implementing improvements to its immigration laws so that qualified skilled workers from countries outside the EU and the EEA are offered secure prospects for work, study, and training in Germany. The Act on the Further Development of Skilled Worker Immigration will come into force in three stages by June 2024. The first regulations came into force on November 18, 2023, and are summarized below.
Employment of recognized skilled workers (Sections 18a, 18b of the Residence Act)
From November 18, 2023, recognized skilled workers will be entitled to a residence permit if all requirements are met. In addition, skilled workers who have entered the country may work in any non-regulated profession. This means that if a skilled worker has completed qualified vocational training or holds a university degree that is recognized in Germany, they are not restricted to jobs related to this training when looking for work. There are exceptions for regulated professions.
Changes to the EU Blue Card:
The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for university graduates and specialists in certain occupational groups from third countries. The following requirements for the issuance of the EU Blue Card have been eased:
- Lowering of the salary threshold: Minimum salary of 45.3% of the annual contribution assessment ceiling in the pension insurance scheme for shortage occupations and career starters, and 50% for all other occupations.
- IT specialists: EU Blue Card can also be obtained without a university degree, but with at least three years of comparable professional experience. In this case, the lower salary threshold for shortage occupations applies.
- Expansion of shortage occupations: In addition to the existing shortage occupations (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, engineering, and human medicine), several other occupations, including those in healthcare, education, and information and communication technology, are now considered shortage occupations.
- Facilitating mobility within the EU with the EU Blue Card.
Changes for professional drivers:
The Federal Employment Agency will make it easier to obtain approval to employ professional drivers from third countries by eliminating the requirement to check the professional qualifications. In addition, there will no longer be a priority check, and language skills will no longer need to be demonstrated upon entry.
Further information can be found in our information center and in our handouts for companies and advisors.
You can read the entire text of the law here.