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The shortage of skilled workers is hampering the country’s economy and prosperity. More open immigration laws for skilled workers from abroad are intended to address this shortage. Germany is implementing improvements to its immigration laws to offer qualified professionals from countries outside the EU and the EEA secure opportunities for work, study, and training in Germany. The Act on the Further Development of Skilled Worker Immigration will come into effect in three phases by June 2024. On November 18, 2023, the first provisions came into effect, which are summarized below.
Employment of Recognized Skilled Workers (Sections 18a, 18b of the Residence Act)
As of November 18, 2023, recognized skilled workers are 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. Thus, if a skilled worker can demonstrate qualified vocational training or a university degree that has been recognized in Germany, they are not limited to jobs related to that training when looking for work. Exceptions apply to 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 issuing the EU Blue Card have been relaxed:
- Lowering of the salary threshold: Minimum salary of 45.3% of the annual contribution assessment ceiling for pension insurance for shortage occupations and entry-level professionals, and 50% for all other occupations.
- IT specialists: Eligibility for the EU Blue Card even without a university degree, provided they have 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 the health care and education sectors and in information and communication technology—are now classified as shortage occupations.
- Facilitating mobility within the EU with the EU Blue Card.
Changes for professional drivers:
The Federal Employment Agency’s approval process for employing professional drivers from third countries is simplified by eliminating the requirement to verify professional qualifications. Additionally, priority checks are no longer required, and language proficiency no longer needs to be demonstrated upon entry.
Further information can be found in our information center as well as in our guides for businesses and for consultants.
You can read the full text of the law here.