The federal government has agreed on new rules for the immigration of skilled workers. The bill, adopted by the Council of Ministers, aims to make Germany more attractive for professionals.
In addition to various benefits, such as family reunification and recognition of professional qualifications, the project foresees the introduction of an “opportunity card” based on a points system. When calculating their number, the following criteria are taken into account: knowledge of the language, professional experience, age and connection with Germany.
What else does the “opportunity map” offer?
“Chancenkarte” offers, among other things, opportunities for trial work or secondary employment. It is allowed to modify the residence permit for the purpose of employment or study. “This approach serves to open up a new potential of workers suitable for the German labor market, who until now have not been able to look for work,” says the project.
The conditions for obtaining a residence permit to find a place of study will be considerably reduced. “After years of persistent effort, Germany finally has a modern immigration law with a points system based on the Canadian model,” said FDP MP Anne-Veruschka Jurisch.
Need for coordination
The draft citizenship law reform, which Federal Minister of the Interior Nancy Feather (SPD) wishes to submit to the Cabinet, as well as the draft law on the immigration of skilled workers, still need to be approved by the FDP.
Liberals have no objection to allowing dual nationality for non-EU citizens. The reduction of the minimum length of residence from eight to five years also meets with their approval. However, the liberals do not want to reduce the other conditions for naturalization – knowledge of the language and the ability to earn a living on their own.
