Germany new skilled immigration
Germany has introduced several initiatives to attract skilled immigrants in recent years. Here are some key programs and changes:
- Skilled Immigration Act (2019): This law aims to simplify the immigration process for highly qualified workers and their families. It introduces a new residence permit for skilled workers, which allows them to work in Germany for up to 4 years.
- Job Seeker Visa: Germany offers a job seeker visa, which allows foreign nationals to look for a job in Germany for up to 6 months. This visa is valid for 6 months and can be extended for another 6 months.
- EU Blue Card: Germany is a signatory to the EU Blue Card directive, which allows highly qualified workers from non-EU countries to work in Germany. The EU Blue Card is valid for 4 years and can be extended.
- Freelance Visa: Germany offers a freelance visa for self-employed individuals who want to work in Germany. This visa is valid for 1 year and can be extended.
- Startup Visa: Germany has introduced a startup visa program, which allows entrepreneurs to start a business in Germany. This visa is valid for 1 year and can be extended.
- Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Visa: Germany offers an ICT visa for employees of foreign companies who are transferred to Germany for work. This visa is valid for up to 3 years.
- Research Visa: Germany offers a research visa for scientists and researchers who want to conduct research in Germany. This visa is valid for up to 1 year and can be extended.
Requirements for Skilled Immigration to Germany:
- Language skills: Proficiency in German language is not always required, but it is recommended. Some programs, such as the EU Blue Card, require a minimum level of German language proficiency.
- Education and qualifications: A bachelor's or master's degree from a recognized university is usually required. Some programs, such as the EU Blue Card, require a master's degree or equivalent.
- Work experience: Some programs, such as the EU Blue Card, require at least 5 years of relevant work experience.
- Job offer: A job offer from a German employer is usually required for most immigration programs.
- Health insurance: Proof of health insurance is usually required.
- Integration course: Some programs, such as the EU Blue Card, require participation in an integration course to learn German language and culture.
Benefits of Skilled Immigration to Germany:
- Economic benefits: Skilled immigrants can contribute to Germany's economy by starting businesses, creating jobs, and increasing productivity.
- Demographic benefits: Germany's population is aging, and skilled immigrants can help to offset the impact of demographic change.
- Cultural benefits: Skilled immigrants can bring new ideas, perspectives, and cultures to Germany, enriching the country's cultural diversity.
- Brain gain: Germany can attract highly skilled workers from other countries, reducing the risk of brain drain and retaining talent.
Overall, Germany's new skilled immigration programs aim to attract highly qualified workers and their families, while also promoting integration and cultural exchange.