SPD MP Helge Lindh defended the new regulation against criticism from the Union. The law ends the undignified state of chain toleration, he said in the debate.
The Opportunity Residence Act planned by the coalition provides for an 18-month residence permit for foreigners who have lived in Germany as tolerated persons for five years as of October 31, 2022. This is intended to give people the opportunity to meet the necessary requirements for legal residence in this time. According to the government, around 136,000 people are affected.
Prerequisites for the granting of the right of residence are German language skills and securing a livelihood. Criminals and people who hide their identity to avoid deportation are excluded. If the requirements for the granting of a residence permit are not met after the 18-month period of residence, those affected should revert to the status of toleration.
