There are new rules in place in Germany about skilled worker immigration. On March 1, the second phase of the Skilled Immigration Act went into effect in Germany. New regulations for skilled worker immigration began in November 2023, with the third stage introducing a job search opportunity card in June 2024.
The new Skilled Immigration Act makes it easier for skilled workers with vocational training and individuals with practical knowledge to immigrate to Germany. It offers foreign nationals a residency option depending on work experience, among other factors.
Germans will allow individuals from third countries outside the EU to work in the country with at least two years of work experience and recognized vocational or higher education qualifications. With this new rule, Germany has become more accessible for trainees and skilled workers with professional experience.
The scope relating to residence for participating in ‘qualification measures’ in Germany is being extended. The previous 18-month residence permit to complete adaptation measures will now be granted for 24 months when issued for the first time. It will be possible to extend the permit for a further 12 months, up to a maximum residence period of three years. This amendment will give employers greater flexibility.
The possibility of secondary employment during the qualification measure will be increased from 10 to 20 hours per week. This will make it easier for prospective skilled workers to find their way into the labour market.
The purpose of undergoing qualification measures in Germany is for applicants to receive full recognition of their foreign qualifications.
The recognition partnership will make it possible for applicants to obtain a residence title for qualified employment and to complete the necessary recognition procedure after entering the country. Residence permits are usually issued for one year and can be extended to up to three years.
For people with practical professional knowledge, the requirement is that they have a professional qualification or a university degree recognised by the country of training. In the case of a professional qualification, a training period of at least two years is required.
In addition, applicants must have a minimum of two years’ work experience in the occupation they wish to enter. Formal recognition of the qualification in Germany is not required.
The job offer in Germany must assure an annual gross salary of at least €40,770 (as of 2024).