Germany plans to reduce the annual quota for employing workers from the Western Balkans from 50,000 to 25,000.

Construction employers oppose this move because they fear they will not have enough people for the planned works. According to a statement by the Central Association of the German Construction Industry, ZDB, from 24 September 2026, the reduction is planned for 1 January 2027, but the current regulation still states a quota of 50,000 approvals per year.

What would change for workers?

The rule covers citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia. It allows them to work in Germany without prior recognition of professional qualifications, except in professions where this is mandatory, such as medical practice.

The worker must have a contract or a binding job offer from an employer and meet the other visa requirements. If the quota is halved, fewer people will be able to obtain initial approval through this route. For someone who has already found a job, this could mean a longer wait because applications are processed only while there is space in the relevant quota.

Why does the government want to reduce the quota?

This plan did not emerge only now. CDU, CSU, and SPD already wrote in the 2025 coalition agreement that they want to limit the arrival of workers through the Western Balkans rule to 25,000 per year.

This is part of a broader political shift toward stricter migration limits. At the same time, in the same document, the ruling parties say they want to attract skilled workers. This is exactly where the dispute with employers arises: the authorities want fewer arrivals through this program, while construction companies claim they need these people.

Billions for construction, but fewer people on construction sites

According to ZDB, about 30% of visas from this program go to the construction sector. The association warns that Germany is allocating billions for bridges, railways, and housing, while at the same time planning to limit the arrival of workers who would build them.

Demand already exceeds available places. ZDB states that the quota for 2025 was filled by the end of November, after which applications had to be rejected. It is therefore calling for at least 50,000 approvals to be maintained and for visas to be issued faster.

Workers need a clear decision

Until the regulation is changed, the quota of 50,000 approvals remains in force. The political plan for reduction exists, but workers and employers need to know when it would be implemented and how submitted applications would be handled.

For people arranging a job, relocation, and the start of work, this is more important information than dramatic announcements of layoffs. And for Germany, one very concrete question remains: who will carry out the planned works if companies fail to hire enough people?