New Skilled Immigration Act
13. August 2024

Germany is at a crossroads with its new Skilled Immigration Act, designed to attract more qualified workers from non-EU countries. However, the process is seen as overly complex, prompting calls for a new „welcoming culture.“ Economic leaders have expressed concern, particularly regarding the growing influence of the AfD party.The new „opportunity card,“ introduced on June 1, has yet to significantly impact the number of labor migrants. To date, only about 200 visas have been issued under this new regulation. The card requires a state-recognized vocational qualification or degree, along with language skills in German or English. Points are awarded based on language proficiency, work experience, age, and connection to Germany. Those with enough points can move to Germany and have a year to secure a job, with a possible two-year extension under certain conditions.Peter Adrian, President of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK), has criticized the system, stating, „The opportunity card’s requirements are too complex. I doubt this will attract many skilled workers.“Adrian also calls for a different „welcoming culture,“ emphasizing the need for improvements in visa processing, housing, and childcare provision. „We need to send a clear message: We are excited to welcome you to Germany.“The complexity of obtaining a visa also affects how many non-EU citizens come to work in Germany. The Foreign Office has stated that visas for skilled workers are prioritized, and aims to fully digitize the national visa process by January 1, 2025.A recent economic survey by the DIHK revealed that over half of companies see the skills shortage as a business risk, alongside high energy and raw material costs and weak domestic demand.There is also growing concern over the rising poll numbers of the AfD party. Industry President Siegfried Russwurm stresses the need for improvement in implementing the Skilled Immigration Act, emphasizing the importance of a welcoming culture from embassies to local foreign authorities, reminiscent of the American „We want you!“ slogan.

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