Germany Approves Point-based System to Attract Skilled Workers from overseas

While presenting the Government’s plan in chamber, the Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said , “The shortage of skilled labor is considered one of the biggest brakes on economic growth in Germany, and skilled workers are missing everywhere. She termed the legislation as “a huge step for the future of our country.”

New Point-based System Approved

The law comprises a points-based system that eases entry hurdles for candidates as per their professional qualifications, age and language skills. In the start of the year, the DIHK (Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry) revealed that over half of Germany's companies were finding it difficult to fill vacancies due to scarcity of skilled workers.

The percentage of companies facing problems recruiting was at its highest ever level. As per DIHK survey 22,000 companies, with 53% reporting shortages.

The new system likely to streamline Germany’s immigration legislation are anticipated to make it easier for third country citizens to work in Germany. It could raise the number of non-EU workers in Germany by 60,000 per year.

The new ‘Chancenkarte’ or 'Opportunity card' of Germany

One of the key measures announced is the "opportunity card" along with its parallel points system. Here are key points to note about this card.

• This card allows overseas workers without a prior employment offer to come to Germany for a period of 1 year to seek job.
• To become eligible for the opportunity card, applicants need to possess a vocational qualification or a university degree.
• The allocation of opportunity cards will be based on satisfying specific parameters, which will earn applicants points. These criteria may comprise, ability in German and/or English, established connections to Germany, and the possibility of accompanying life partners or spouses in the German labor market.
• Moreover, to easing job search, the opportunity card will also grant the flexibility of engaging in part-time job of up to 20 hours per week and joining probationary work.
• This new card will allow people to come and find job or apprenticeship while being in Germany instead of applying from overseas. Applicants would also require providing a proof that they can have enough funds to pay their living expenses in the meantime.
• The precise details of the new plan are yet to be official. However, the new chancenkarte is not expected to be available until the end of this year at least.

Eligibility Criteria for the Opportunity Card

The government of Germany will set the quota for inviting applicants based on the fact as to which industries need workers. Three out of four of the below criteria needs to be met to apply for the scheme:

• A degree or vocational training 
• Three years’ professional experience
• Language skills or a previous stay in Germany
• 35 years old or younger

Presently, most non-EU citizens must have an employment offer before they can come to Germany. A Job Seeker visa is already in existence, however, the ‘Opportunity Card’ or 'chancenkarte' or is expected to make it easier and quicker for individuals looking to find job in Germany.

Recognition of degrees

A major hurdle in immigration to Germany has been long standing requirement to have degrees recognized in Germany.

However, going forward, skilled immigrants will not require having their degrees recognized in Germany, provided they can show that they have minimum 2 years of professional experience and a degree that is state-recognized in their home country.

However, a person  who already has an employment offer can come to Germany and begin working while their degree is still being recognized.

Citizenship law

Germany is establishing a new citizenship law, which will simplify dual citizenship for individuals from non-EU nations. As per the government, it feel the urge to actively attract skilled workers from overseas and provide them with long-term prospects. Hence, it is planning to reform the citizenship law.

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- Rajneesh Kumar