German parliament enacts first phase of Skilled Worker immigration act on 18th Nov, 2023

Highlights: First Phase of Germany’s Skilled Worker Immigration Act

• The first round of the Skilled Worker Immigration Act was carried out on November 18, 2023.
• The parliament of Germany passed a re-modified Skilled Immigration Act to ease the entry of foreign skilled workers from non-EU countries.  
• The changes have been made to promote better opportunities for skilled workers entering Germany.
• The EU Blue and Mobility and Family Reunification changes are set to be implemented from March 1, 2024.

 

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The Latest EU Blue Card Modifications

The critical changes made to the EU Blue Card post the implementation of the Skilled Worker Immigration Act are as follows:

• The minimum salary for pension insurance is now 45.3% of the Annual contribution assessment.
• Different figures of salary thresholds have been set for other occupations.
• Recent university graduates (within the last three years) will now be allowed to acquire an EU Blue Card, provided they meet the minimum salary requirements.  
• IT specialists without a university degree are now eligible for an EU Blue card, provided they have prior professional work experience.

 

The roles mentioned below have been added to the list of professions that qualify for the EU Blue card:

1. Manufacturing
2. Mining
3. Construction
4. Distribution managers
5. Healthcare professionals
6. Education-related jobs and more.

 

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Changes made to the Mobility and Family Reunification

The changes made to the Mobility and Family Reunification are listed below:

• Skilled workers who fulfill academic and professional qualifications can now apply for a German residence permit.
• The Federal Employment Agency will work on streamlining its procedures to fast-track the approval process for foreign workers.
• Skilled, experienced workers with at least two years of experience are no longer required to go through the qualification recognition process in Germany, provided their qualifications are already recognized by their home country.
• The revised law permits EU blue card holders from other states to engage in short-term and long-term business-related activities without requiring additional permits.
• The process of family reunification for Blue card holders is now simplified for privileged residence and entry for family members.
• Checks on driving licenses and language skills will now be streamlined for professional drivers from third countries.

 

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Other important changes

Some of the other crucial changes made via the latest Skilled Worker Immigration Act are listed below:

• Candidates who train for up to 3 years to acquire a German-equivalent qualification can now work part-time for 20 hours per week.
• Skilled workers with valid residence permits from March 2024 are authorized to bring their parents and in-laws to Germany.
• A new "Opportunity Card" will be introduced on June 1, 2024. The card will permit individuals to seek employment in Germany for 12 months upon demonstrating proof of funds.
• Individuals with a German equivalent degree must have a university degree lasting at least two years and proficiency in German and English.  
• Opportunity card holders can work up to 20 hours per week with the possibility of extending the validity for two additional years.

 

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Web Story: German parliament enacts first phase of Skilled Worker immigration act on 18th Nov, 2023