From November 1, changes to the law on the immigration of skilled workers will come into force in Germany, German media report.

From November, the circle of skilled workers who can more easily come to work in Germany will expand. The path to the “EU Blue Card” will be easier for highly qualified academics, master's degree holders, and those with a specialized academic diploma.

The Blue Card is a residence permit that greatly facilitates access to the local labor market for skilled workers from countries outside the EU.

German media cite the example of IT specialists with extensive professional experience who no longer have to provide proof of formal qualifications.

Relief for employers

The new changes also mean major relief for companies struggling with a shortage of qualified staff.

Among other things, the new law lowers the previously relatively high minimum salary thresholds. Instead of the previous 58,000 euros gross (or around 45,500 euros for so-called bottleneck occupations), workers from countries outside the EU will from November have to prove that they earn around 15,000 euros less per year.

In addition, the prospects for staying in Germany are improving, which also makes family reunification easier.

Truly major changes should come into force in March 2024: from then on, workers from third countries can enter the country after submitting a visa application and work here while their professional qualifications are being recognized.

This has not been possible until now, which is why it can take about a year to obtain a visa and work permit for Germany from abroad.

Who can apply for the EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card facilitates the employment of highly qualified third-country nationals in Europe. It is valid for all countries except Ireland and Denmark.

For the EU Blue Card, you must provide proof of employment in Germany with the statutory minimum salary. The lower minimum salary threshold applies to shortage occupations, and these are the following professions:

– Engineers

– Scientists in the field of natural sciences

– Mathematicians

– IT specialist staff

– Medical workers

The “EU Blue Card” is issued by the competent Foreigners' Office in Germany.

Source: fenix-magazin.de