Earned migration - Germany issues tens of thousands of work visas
The Foreign Office issued over 80,000 visas in the first half of this year to people who want to work in Germany. Approximately half of them - over 40,000 - were for skilled workers, according to the German Press Agency from the Ministry. In comparison, about 37,000 visas were issued to skilled workers in the previous fiscal year.
In the whole year 2023, the Foreign Office reportedly issued over 157,000 work visas, of which 79,000 went to skilled workers.
The so-called Opportunity Card, introduced on June 1, has had little impact on the number of labor migrants so far. About 200 visas have been issued based on this legal basis, according to the Foreign Office.
The prerequisite for the Opportunity Card is a vocational training recognized by the receiving country, at least a two-year professional training or an equivalent university degree, as well as language skills in German or English. Interested parties receive points based on their language proficiency, professional experience, age, and Germany connection.
There are also points for qualifications in shortage occupations. Those who have enough points can come to Germany and have one year to find a permanent job. Under certain conditions, a one-time extension of two years is possible.
Working without prior recognition procedures
Germany has had a Skilled Immigration Law since 2020 to promote the inflow of qualified labor forces. The first part of the reform of this law passed in November 2023, focusing mainly on simplifications for the "Blue Card EU" and for recognized skilled workers.
Since March, skilled workers with a degree and professional experience can enter and work in Germany without prior recognition procedures. They do not have to present a recognized education in Germany but need a job offer with a gross annual salary of at least €40,770 - provided the employer is bound by a collective agreement.
Digitalization of the visa procedure
Additionally, opportunities for workers from Western Balkan countries to come to Germany for work were expanded on June 1.
Citizens of EU countries have the right to freely choose their place of work within the European Union. The number of people from countries not in the EU coming to work in Germany also depends on how complicated the application process for a visa is and how long applicants have to wait for an appointment at a German embassy or consulate. According to the Foreign Office, work visas for skilled workers are prioritized. By January 1, 2025, the national visa procedure is expected to be fully digitalized.
The European Union allows citizens from its member states to freely choose their place of work within the union. The digitalization of the visa procedure, expected to be completed by January 1, 2025, may encourage more skilled workers from non-EU countries to apply for work visas in Germany. The Foreign Office has reportedly issued over 157,000 work visas in 2023, with around 79,000 going to skilled workers who can enter and work in Germany without prior recognition procedures since March, as long as they have a job offer with a minimum annual salary and meet other requirements.
