Germany has recently passed an immigration law with the aim of attracting more individuals from outside the European Union, including Nigeria, 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, including Nigerians, and streamline the immigration process. It includes key provisions such as the modernization of immigration legislation to make it easier for third-country nationals to work in the country, focusing on vocational training to target workers with non-academic training, and relaxing rules for qualified professionals with university degrees.
One significant aspect of the law is the introduction of the “chancenkarte,” an opportunity card designed to address the shortage of skilled workers. This card will utilize a points-based system that takes into account qualifications, professional experience, age, German language proficiency, and ties to Germany. It is expected to simplify and expedite the process for individuals seeking employment in Germany, allowing them to search for jobs or apprenticeships within the country itself.
To establish an effective system, the law will also establish quotas annually based on industry demands. Applicants must meet specific criteria, such as having a degree or vocational training, a minimum of three years of professional experience, language skills or a previous stay in Germany, and being 35 years old or younger.
Recognizing the importance of recognizing foreign qualifications, Germany aims to become more open to acknowledging professional qualifications and job experience obtained in workers’ native countries, relaxing the current strict recognition policy. Additionally, the new system will place emphasis on professional experience, enabling individuals without a university degree but with relevant expertise to be considered.
While citizens of certain countries with visa agreements can already enter Germany visa-free for up to 90 days, the “chancenkarte” will offer an extended stay for job seekers. This means qualified individuals can search for employment or apprenticeships within Germany, eliminating the need to apply from abroad.
Although the precise details of the “chancenkarte” are yet to be finalized, its implementation is expected to significantly improve Germany’s ability to attract skilled workers from outside the EU and meet its labor market demands.