Germany has recently passed an immigration law with the aim of attracting more individuals from outside the European Union, to come and work in the country. The law, supported by Interior Minister of Social Democrats (SPD) Nancy Faeser, is a response to Germany’s shortage of skilled workers and seeks to promote prosperity and economic growth.
Faeser stressed the need to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles during the implementation of the law in order for it to be effective. Like many European countries, Germany is grappling with a significant shortage of skilled workers, with 1.74 million vacant positions reported throughout the country in 2022, according to the Institute for Employment Research (IAB).
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz, together with Faeser, emphasized the importance of reducing bureaucracy, improving digitization, and enhancing the efficiency of the immigration system. Scholz highlighted that the future of Germany, its economic efficiency, and social security systems rely heavily on having a sufficient supply of skilled workers. While the freedom of movement within the European Union facilitates the process, challenges arise when considering workers from outside the EU.
The new immigration law in Germany aims to create job opportunities for non-EU nationals, and streamline the immigration process. It includes provisions such as the modernization of immigration legislation, with a focus on vocational training and the introduction of an “opportunity card” called the “chancenkarte.” This card will utilize a points-based system to facilitate the entry of workers possessing the required skills.
The points system will take into account qualifications, professional experience, age, German language proficiency, and ties to Germany. Quotas will be established annually based on industry demands. Applicants must fulfill certain criteria, such as having a degree or vocational training, three years of professional experience, language skills or a previous stay in Germany, and being 35 years old or younger.
The “chancenkarte” is expected to simplify and expedite the process for individuals seeking employment in Germany. It will allow job seekers to search for employment or apprenticeships within the country itself, eliminating the need to apply from abroad. The law also aims to address the recognition of foreign qualifications, making it easier for individuals with professional experience to enter the country, even if they do not possess a university degree.
While citizens of certain countries with visa agreements can already enter Germany visa-free for up to 90 days, the “chancenkarte” offers an extended stay option for qualified job seekers with degrees. However, the precise details of the “chancenkarte” are yet to be finalized and it is not expected to be available before the end of 2023.