Rollout of Germany’s Updated Skilled Immigration Rules

Germany has been grappling with a significant workforce shortage, particularly in vital sectors such as IT, technology, medical care, contracting, and logistics. Recognizing this challenge, employers are increasingly turning to skilled professionals from abroad to fill these gaps.

Germany Immigration Updates

In response, the German parliament, the Bundestag, passed a revised Skilled Immigration Act during the summer, aiming to streamline and expedite the entry process for skilled workers from non-European Union countries.

Effective November 2023, Germany initiated the first phase of its updated skilled worker law, introducing modifications to the regulations governing the EU Blue Cards.

These changes are geared toward enhancing opportunities for skilled professionals entering Germany, reflecting the nation’s commitment to addressing workforce shortages in critical sectors.

Qualified professionals holding the necessary professional or academic credentials that meet all requirements are now qualified to obtain a residence permit. This signifies a departure from the previous discretionary authority held by diplomatic missions abroad and immigration authorities.

In addition to the changes made to the EU Blue Card, the recent legislation removes constraints that previously bound individuals to roles directly aligned with their professional qualifications.

The approval process for professional drivers from non-European Union countries has been streamlined, doing away with checks related to driving licenses and language proficiency.

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