Germany has made a number of changes in recent months that will facilitate the country's appeal to skilled labourers. In an effort to increase Germany's attractiveness, the government has announced reforms that will enable foreign workers with EU Blue Cards pending approval to work here for a maximum of three years.
For skilled workers, Germany has implemented a point-based "opportunity card" that makes their lives even easier. Individuals who possess an equivalent foreign qualification may begin seeking employment on June 1 and may do so for a maximum of one year. All they need to do is meet a few requirements and be financially self-sufficient.
As previously stated, in order to be eligible for the Opportunity Card, a person must demonstrate that they have enough money. In addition, the applicant must speak German (A1) or English (B2) fluently and have completed at least two years of vocational training or a university degree in accordance with the requirements of their home country.
Even during their probationary period, opportunity card holders are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week. Additionally, if the cardholders secure a contract for suitable employment, they have the option to extend the card's validity for an additional two years.
Apart from the opportunity card, skilled worker reforms have been announced by Germany. The revised Skilled Immigration Act now offers foreign workers in Germany greater flexibility.
The revised Skilled Immigration Act, which went into effect on March 1, includes provisions for flexibility to accommodate individuals who wish to match their foreign training with German qualifications. For a maximum of three years, part-timers (20 hours per week) may work while completing training to earn a German-equivalent qualification.
Skilled workers hoping to have their foreign qualifications recognized in Germany can start working right away after coming to an agreement with their German employers, even while the recognition process is still in progress. This measure allows for a three-year maximum stay.
To speed up the family reunification process for skilled workers, the Skilled Immigration Act has also loosened requirements for spouses, minor children, and—most importantly—parents or parents-in-law. The ability to bring parents or parents-in-law to Germany has been extended to skilled workers.
