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Changes in the immigration law passed by the Bundestag

Germany needs more than 2 million skilled workers in various fields. It has led the German government to ease the immigration laws for expats in Germany.

Here are some of the highlights.

• You can get a 1-year job search visa based on the points system. You'll get points based on German language proficiency and professional experience.
• Increased flexibility for bringing more family members.
• Expanding the EU Blue Card to cover sectors facing labor shortages, like health care and education.
• From March 2024, foreigners outside the EU can work in Germany while awaiting their qualification approval.
• Germany will double the immigration quota for western Balkan countries to 50,000 people in June.

EU Blue Card

• There are no German language requirements for academic and qualified workers to apply for an EU Blue Card.
• The law will reduce the annual salary limits. An annual salary limit was implemented to protect foreign workers from being exploited by low salaries.
• The annual salary limit for entry-level and in-demand professions will be 41,041.80 € as of 2024. It'll be 45,300 € as of 2024 for all other professions.
• Good news for people working in the IT sector. You can now get a Blue card without a university degree. You only need to prove that you have at least three years of relevant professional experience.
• Nursing assistants with less than three years of nursing training will also be granted access to the German labor market.

Low-income thresholds will make it easier for foreigners to get a Blue card. But simultaneously, it'll open doors for the companies to exploit expats.

Companies in Germany are already paying foreigners lower income than the locals for the same work. Hence, expats must know their rights and demand their employer for fair pay.

A lawyer who specializes in employment law can support you here. Moreover, your legal insurance will cover the lawyer and legal costs.

Qualifications and training

• You can train in Germany for up to 3 years to match your foreign qualifications. You can also work up to 20 hours per week during your training.
• Skilled workers can start working in Germany while their qualifications are recognized. But the employer must agree to it.

Family reunion

• Skilled workers can bring their spouses and children to Germany. They must prove that they can support their families. Proof of sufficient living space is not required anymore.
• You can also bring your parents or parents-in-law to Germany if you get the residence permit for the first time on or after 1 March 2024. Unfortunately, foreigners currently living in Germany cannot bring their parents.
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