The federal government has agreed on new rules for the immigration of skilled workers. The draft law passed by the cabinet is intended to make Germany more attractive to qualified workers.
In addition to various simplifications – such as family reunification and the recognition of professional qualifications – the draft includes the introduction of a so-called “opportunity card”, which is also the basis of a points system. The criteria that are taken into account when calculating the number of points include language skills, professional experience, age and a connection to Germany.
The “chance card” also offers opportunities for trial work or part-time employment. Changing to a residence permit for gainful employment or educational purposes is permitted. “This also serves to open up new potential for suitable workers for the German labor market who have not been able to find a job up to now,” says the draft. The requirements for a residence permit for the purpose of looking for a training place are significantly lowered. “After years of pressure, Germany is finally getting a modern immigration law with a points system based on the Canadian model,” said Ann-Veruschka Jurisch, a member of the FDP Bundestag.
However, there is still a need for coordination with the FDP on the planned reform of nationality law, which Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) would have liked to bring into the cabinet together with the draft law on immigration of skilled workers. The Liberals are not against allowing dual citizenship in principle for non-EU citizens as well. They also approve of reducing the minimum period of residence, usually from eight years to five years. With the other requirements for naturalization – language and securing one’s own livelihood – the Liberals do not want to make any compromises and allow fewer exceptions.
