One of the biggest economies in Europe, Germany has been experiencing a serious labour crisis. According to the new immigration rule, Germany has eased immigration rules to invite 400,000 skilled workers so as to prevent a labour deficit.

Over the next four years, there will likely be a shortfall of roughly 2,40,000 competent workers. According to the government, the nation will require seven million skilled employees by 2035, while experts claim that an additional 400,000 skilled immigrants must be admitted each year to fill vacancies in varied sectors such as health care, IT and construction.  

Germany is facing a labour shortage across various sectors, including catering, logistics, education, technology and nursing. Noting this, Labor Minister Hubertus Heil asserted, "For many companies, the search for skilled workers is already an existential issue."

What Are The Proposed Changes?

The government plans to introduce an "opportunity card” based on a point system.  The new points system considers attributes in categories such as qualifications, age, language skills and work experience. The opportunity card or Chancenkarte card is a new regulated way of attracting international talents with key skills to Germany. This is a great option that provides foreign nationals with an opportunity to move to Germany to look for work even without a job offer.  Germany's companies frequently favour individuals already residing in Germany or at least in the European Union. Similar benefits are provided under the existing Jobseeker visa. 

Learn more details about opportunity card.

Appropriate steps have been made by the government that would allow non-EU citizens to come to Germany even without a firm job offer.

The nation has also recommended modernising immigration laws more hospitable to foreign workers and students. 

Besides this, the government also eases immigration for younger immigrants to study or undertake vocational training in Germany.

The changes to the EU-wide blue card and the new rules introduced for students and interns are the other rules. The new rules introduced for students and interns, allow people to come from abroad to study or train for a profession. Moreover, foreign students with German language proficiency can complete internships that last up to 6 weeks without the consent of the Federal Employment Agency.