Germany is set to issue 10% more skilled worker visas in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to the government’s statement on Sunday. This comes a year after the country relaxed immigration regulations to strengthen its labor market.

Germany is grappling with persistent labor shortages, with approximately 1.34 million job positions remaining unfilled.

Last year, Berlin introduced the Opportunity Card, a points-based system modeled after Canada’s approach. This system simplifies the process for professionals and university graduates to move to Germany, pursue studies, and search for employment opportunities.

Skilled workers from outside the European Union can now enter Germany without the need for prior recognition of their qualifications.

How effective have the reforms been?

A joint announcement from three German government ministries revealed that approximately 200,000 professional visas are expected to be granted by the end of the year.

The statement noted that this marks a rise of more than 10 percent compared to 2023.

The statement also highlighted a “strong demand” for visas to study in Germany, pursue vocational training, or have foreign qualifications accredited.

The number of visas granted to students from non-EU countries increased by more than 20 percent. For vocational trainees, the growth was even more significant, rising by nearly two-thirds, while the number of individuals applying for recognition of their foreign professional qualifications surged by almost 50 percent.

“Young, skilled people now have greater opportunities to advance their training and studies in Germany,” stated Interior Minister Nancy Faeser.

“With the Opportunity Card, experienced and skilled people can find a fitting job faster and more efficiently,” she continued.

Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also praised the reforms, emphasizing Germany’s ongoing labor shortages.

“Each year, Germany faces a shortage of 400,000 skilled individuals and even more workers who contribute to the strength of our nation… This is hindering our economy… With the Skilled Immigration Act, we’ve developed the most progressive immigration law in Europe, fundamentally transforming the visa process,” said Baerbock.

How does the Opportunity Card function?

Eligibility for the Opportunity Card is determined through a points system that evaluates factors such as qualifications, skills, and experience.

Additional points are awarded for qualifying in occupations with a labor shortage, partial recognition of foreign qualifications, age, proficiency in German and English, and any prior ties to Germany.

Applicants must demonstrate that they have approximately €1,000 ($1,050) per month to cover their expenses for the entire duration of their stay.

In the last five years, Germany has generated approximately 1.6 million jobs, with 89 percent of these positions filled by foreign workers.

Immigration continues to be a contentious topic, with critics arguing that Germany has faced challenges in integrating over a million migrants, many fleeing the Syrian civil war, who were welcomed by former Chancellor Angela Merkel in 2015/6. Additionally, another wave of immigration has occurred since the onset of the full-scale war in Ukraine in early 2022.

With around 19 percent support nationwide, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party aims to increase its backing in the upcoming snap election in February by emphasizing its stance on limiting immigration.

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