Navigating Germany’s New Skilled Immigration Act: Key Highlights and What It Means for You

Germany’s new Skilled Immigration Act (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz or FEG) is designed to simplify the immigration process for skilled workers, including those with vocational training and practical experience, making it easier to move to Germany and contribute to the economy. As this law continues to evolve, it opens up numerous pathways for qualified individuals from around the world. At Jaberi Lawyers, we specialize in guiding you through these changes, ensuring that you can seize the opportunities presented by the new regulations.

Visa & Residence: Your Gateway to a New Life in Germany

The new Skilled Immigration Act has introduced several significant changes, enhancing existing pathways for skilled workers, including those with a university degree who can now benefit from the EU Blue Card. Additionally, the newly launched opportunity card (Chancenkarte) allows nationals from third countries to explore job opportunities in Germany. These changes, effective from November 2023, aim to widen the scope for professionals seeking to establish themselves in Germany.

The Revamped EU Blue Card: More Accessible Than Ever

With the introduction of Directive (EU) 2021/1883, Germany has restructured the EU Blue Card, making it accessible to a broader group of professionals:

• Reduced Salary Thresholds: The minimum salary requirements for obtaining an EU Blue Card have been lowered. In 2024, for shortage occupations and recent graduates, the threshold is set at 45.3% of the annual contribution assessment ceiling for pension insurance, which is €41,041.80. For other occupations, the threshold is 50% or €45,300.
• Expanded Eligibility: Recent university graduates can now obtain an EU Blue Card if they secure a job in Germany that meets the salary threshold. This also applies to IT specialists without a university degree but with three years of relevant experience.
• Broadened Shortage Occupation List: The list of shortage occupations eligible for the EU Blue Card now includes additional professions such as managers in manufacturing, IT, and healthcare, as well as veterinarians, pharmacists, and educators.
• Enhanced Mobility: Holders of an EU Blue Card from another EU country can now stay in Germany for up to 90 days for business-related activities without needing additional permits. Moreover, long-term residence in Germany is possible after 12 months with an EU Blue Card from another EU member state.
• Simplified Family Reunification: Family reunification for EU Blue Card holders has been streamlined, removing previous requirements for sufficient living space and securing livelihoods.

Other Important Changes Since November 2023

The Skilled Immigration Act has introduced several other changes, all of which are geared towards making Germany more accessible to skilled professionals:

• Automatic Residence Permits for Skilled Workers: Applicants who meet the requirements for a skilled worker visa are now entitled to a residence permit, with no restrictions on the type of job they can pursue based on their qualifications.
• Professional Drivers: The process for employing professional drivers from third countries has been simplified, removing the need for language skills and certain qualifications.
• Extended Residency for Qualification Recognition: The duration of residence permits for foreign qualification recognition has been extended, allowing more flexibility for employers and job seekers.

New Employment and Recognition Rules Since March 2024

• Recognition Partnerships: The act introduces new pathways for foreign professionals to enter Germany for employment while completing the necessary qualification recognition processes.
• Skills Analysis Residence Permit: Professionals who need to undergo a skills analysis in Germany can now obtain a six-month residence permit to complete the process.
• Practical Knowledge Employment: Skilled workers with practical professional knowledge but without formal recognition in Germany can now be employed, provided they meet specific salary and experience requirements.
• Settlement Permit: Skilled workers can now obtain a settlement permit after just three years of residence, while EU Blue Card holders can qualify even faster.

Expanded Opportunities for Students and Trainees

• Increased Work Hours for Students: International students can now work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, or 20 hours per week, during their studies.
• Extended Residence for Job Seekers: Students and trainees can now stay longer in Germany while searching for employment, with increased opportunities for secondary employment.
• Opportunity Card for Job Seekers: The newly introduced opportunity card allows qualified individuals to reside in Germany for up to one year while seeking employment. This card can be extended under certain conditions.

At Jaberi Lawyers, we understand that navigating these changes can be complex. Whether you’re seeking an EU Blue Card, looking to bring your family to Germany, or exploring the new opportunities created by the Skilled Immigration Act, our team of experts is here to provide personalized guidance and support every step of the way.

Contact Us Today

Ready to take the next step? Contact Jaberi Lawyers for a consultation, and let us help you make Germany your new home.

Visit us at www.jaberilawyers.com 

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