German parliament reforms skilled work immigrant laws

German parliament reforms skilled work immigration law. Germany welcomed more and more immigrants. They have 766,000 open positions in June 2023.

On June 23, 2023, the breaking news was “Germany changing its immigration policies”. The bill about skilled work immigration laws came into effect when President Frank-Walter Steinmeier addressed the Bundestag about the same. Bundestag, the German Parliament, passed the new law, which is for jobseekers from countries other than the EU and for refugees in Germany. The law was reformed to encourage more people to come to Germany for work, and the changes in the bill will surely be beneficial for Indian Jobseekers as the process has been made simple. We have mentioned some details for your convenience.

Why is Germany changing its immigration policies?

The bill was approved by the German Parliament as it was designed to attract a skilled workforce from across the globe. It has been noticed that there is a shortage of skilled labor in the country and the population across Europe is considered to be aging. To cope with the situation, this new law welcomes people with experience of as low as 2 years to the country. Additionally, the rules for the PR also have become 5 years of residency in Germany instead of the previously required residency of 8 years.

How does this new law help Indian skilled workers?

The new law makes skilled workers from India and other non-European countries easy to enter the country. People with a minimum of two years of professional work experience and recognized professional qualifications in their home country will be eligible to migrate and work in Germany. In other words, the law means there will be an excess of jobs in Germany across various sectors. 

If they can demonstrate they have at least two years of professional experience and a degree that is state-recognized in their place of origin, skilled immigrants won't need to have their degrees recognized in Germany in the future.

What significant adjustments have been made to German immigration laws?

As mentioned above with 2 years of work experience and professionally recognized degrees, individuals can be allowed to migrate to Germany, there is more to it, we have mentioned it below for your reference:

  • "Opportunity Card" - The law introduces a new "opportunity card" and points system that lets foreigners who do not yet have a job lined up come to Germany for a year to look for work. People who fulfill several criteria, for which they will gain points, will be handed the cards. 
  • Integrating immigrants - Those who submitted their applications for asylum before March 29, 2023, are now waiting for a decision, have the necessary skills and a job offer, and will be allowed to work in the labor force. They could then enroll in vocational training thanks to this. 
  • For visitors with tourist visas, the modification is also applicable. They won't have to initially leave the country to return for work.
  • Acceptance of degrees - Having degrees recognized in Germany has long been a significant barrier to immigration. If they can prove they have at least two years of professional experience and a degree that is state-recognized in their place of origin, skilled immigrants will no longer be required to have their degrees recognized in Germany. Even if their degree is still being recognized, someone who already has a job offer can move to Germany and begin working right away.
  • Reformation in Citizenship laws - The new bill also transforms the process of obtaining German citizenship without having to give over the citizenship of the home country. It also shortens the minimum requirement to stay in Germany before applying for German citizenship.

Which industries get benefits from the new immigration law?

Software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity are three fields that frequently need specialized knowledge that is not easily accessible in Germany. The new German immigration laws make it easier for migrants to enter the country, which will help tech companies to cover the existing skill gaps and get access to a worldwide pool of talent. Furthermore, the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields, the metal and electrical sectors, and skilled craft occupations are also impacted. Additionally, a skills gap has also been persisting in several healthcare and geriatric nursing occupations, so these professions will also be affected.

Conclusion

A turning point in how Germany views immigration and citizenship will be marked by the reforms included in the German Citizenship Bill of 2023. Germany embraces its diverse population and encourages a sense of belonging for all by streamlining the procedure, reducing residency restrictions, allowing dual citizenship, and taking into account the needs of various immigrant groups. This law represents Germany's dedication to creating a thriving, inclusive society that cherishes equitable participation and provides unmatched opportunities to all who choose to call Germany home.

Article Source yesgermany.com

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