Germany new immigration law for skilled workers

Germany has introduced a new immigration law for skilled workers, known as the "Skilled Workers Immigration Act" (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz), which came into effect on March 1, 2020. The law aims to attract highly skilled workers to Germany and make it easier for them to obtain a residence permit.

Key features of the new law:

  1. Simplified application process: The law introduces a streamlined application process for skilled workers, which reduces the number of steps and documents required.
  2. New residence permit: Skilled workers can apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) for a specific period, which can be extended or converted into a settlement permit (Niederlassungstitel) after 2-3 years.
  3. Priority for skilled workers: The law prioritizes the admission of skilled workers who have a job offer in Germany, have a university degree, and have relevant work experience.
  4. Exemptions from language requirements: Skilled workers who have a university degree in a field that is relevant to their job offer may be exempt from language requirements.
  5. Simplified recognition of foreign qualifications: The law introduces a simplified procedure for recognizing foreign qualifications, making it easier for skilled workers to have their qualifications recognized in Germany.
  6. Increased quotas: The law increases the quotas for skilled workers in certain fields, such as IT, engineering, and healthcare.
  7. Electronic application and processing: The application and processing of residence permits will be electronic, making it faster and more efficient.

Eligibility criteria:

  1. Job offer: Skilled workers must have a job offer in Germany that is relevant to their qualifications and experience.
  2. University degree: Skilled workers must have a university degree that is recognized in Germany.
  3. Relevant work experience: Skilled workers must have relevant work experience in their field.
  4. Language skills: Skilled workers must have basic language skills in German (A1 level) or be willing to learn German.
  5. Health insurance: Skilled workers must have health insurance that covers them in Germany.

Fields with increased quotas:

  1. IT and software development: 20,000 additional places per year
  2. Engineering: 15,000 additional places per year
  3. Healthcare: 10,000 additional places per year
  4. Mathematics and statistics: 5,000 additional places per year
  5. Natural sciences: 5,000 additional places per year

The new law aims to attract highly skilled workers to Germany and make it easier for them to obtain a residence permit. However, the law also introduces stricter requirements and quotas, which may affect the number of skilled workers who can enter the country.