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The amendments to the Skilled Labour Immigration Act are intended to offer skilled workers from abroad better opportunities for training, studying and working in Germany. These measures are intended to combat the shortage of skilled labour in Germany and increase Germany's attractiveness as a destination for qualified workers.
The amendments to the law will be implemented in three stages from November 2023 to June 2024. The third stage will come into force on 1 June. These changes are summarised below:
Introduction of the job search opportunity card:
- Third-country nationals who can prove that their foreign qualification is fully equivalent and are therefore considered "skilled workers" in accordance with Section 18 (3) AufenthG will receive the opportunity card without any further requirements.
- All others must provide proof of a foreign university degree, a vocational qualification lasting at least two years (recognised by the state in the country of training) or a vocational qualification issued by a German chamber of commerce abroad. In addition, either German (level A1 CEFR) or English (level B2 CEFR) language skills are required.
- You can also collect points for the recognition of qualifications in Germany, professional experience, age and other aspects. At least six points must be achieved in order to receive the Chancenkarte.
- The Chancenkarte is issued for one year if you are able to support yourself. During the job search period, a trial job or part-time employment is possible. If you are then unable to obtain another employment title (§§ 18 to 21 of the Residence Act) but have an offer of qualified employment, the Chancenkarte can be extended for a further two years.
- Points table for the Chancenkarte:
Criteria | 4 points | 3 points | 2 points | 1 point |
Qualification | Partial recognition or notification with condition | Qualification in a bottleneck occupation | ||
Language skills | German B2 | German B1 | German A2 or English C1 | |
Professional experience (in connection with the qualification) | At least 5 years in the last 7 years | At least 2 years in the last 5 years | ||
Age | ≤ 35 years | ≤ 40 years of age | ||
Legal and uninterrupted previous residence in the federal territory | At least 6 months in the last 5 years | |||
Joint application for an opportunity card | together with spouse or partner who fulfils the requirements of the Chancenkarte |
New Western Balkans regulation:
- For nationals of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia
- Entry to pursue any employment in non-regulated professions, regardless of qualification (employment contract must be concluded)
- Approval of the Federal Employment Agency required
- Quota extended to 50,000 per year (previously 25,000)
- Regulation cancelled from 2024
Further information can be found in our Infothek and in our handouts for companies and counsellors.
You can read the full text of the law here.