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In 2024, Germany is poised for a transformative shift with ‘Germany 2024 Immigration‘ – a strategic endeavor that focuses on both making the country more attractive to skilled labor and implementing stricter measures for asylum-seekers. This comprehensive reform aims to streamline processes, create enhanced opportunities for skilled workers, and expedite asylum procedures. ‘Germany’s 2024 Immigration’ represents a pivotal moment in the nation’s approach, reflecting a dual commitment to economic vitality and immigration governance.
One of the key initiatives is the introduction of a points-based system designed to attract skilled labor to Germany. Set to be implemented in 2024, this system will evaluate language proficiency and professional experience, granting eligible immigrants a one-year visa to search for job opportunities. Additionally, the EU Blue Card will undergo expansion to cover sectors facing labor shortages. From March onwards, individuals outside the EU can work in Germany while awaiting qualification approval, with the possibility of staying for up to three years.
Recognizing the need for pathways for qualifications and training, the revamped Skilled Immigration Act will introduce flexible provisions from March 1. Those undergoing training to attain German-equivalent qualifications for up to three years will be permitted to work part-time, fostering a more inclusive approach to work-study arrangements.
Skilled workers seeking recognition of their foreign qualifications in Germany will now be allowed to work directly upon agreement with their German employers, even during the recognition procedure. This measure enables a stay of up to three years, provided the individual possesses a professional qualification of at least two years and a minimum A2 level proficiency in German.
The Skilled Immigration Act will also simplify family reunification processes for skilled workers, easing requirements for spouses, underage children, and parents or parents-in-law. While demonstrating the ability to support livelihoods remains essential, the need to prove sufficient living space will be eliminated. From March 2024 onwards, skilled workers can bring their parents or parents-in-law to Germany if their residency permits are valid.
An “opportunity card,” based on a points system, is scheduled for introduction on June 1. Aimed at individuals with equivalent foreign qualifications, this card allows a one-year period for seeking employment in Germany, contingent upon demonstrating financial self-sufficiency. For those without an equivalent foreign qualification, possession of a university degree or a vocational qualification of a minimum two years, along with proficiency at either A1-level German, is required.
Holders of the opportunity card can engage in employment for up to 20 hours weekly, even during a probationary period. The card’s validity can be extended for up to two additional years, subject to individuals securing a contract for qualified employment. These measures aim to provide a more accessible and supportive pathway for individuals pursuing qualifications and establishing themselves in Germany.
However, there are notable restrictions for asylum-seekers. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed support for “large-scale” deportations for rejected asylum applicants, and the Repatriation Improvement Act aims to streamline the deportation process. Key changes include an end to advance announcements of deportations, an extension of asylum detention to 28 days, enhanced police powers for searching and accessing property, and faster deportations for individuals suspected of criminal associations.
Germany is actively negotiating agreements with several countries to designate them as “safe countries of origin,” including Georgia, Moldova, Kenya, Colombia, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan. This initiative aims to expedite the return of individuals to these designated countries.
Efforts to process asylum applications more swiftly are underway, with proposed changes aiming to reduce the processing time to three to six months. Asylum-seekers are also expected to receive fewer benefits, with welfare payments delayed to three years and deductions for food costs in state housing. To prevent misuse of benefits, several German cities and states are transitioning to a card-based system, starting with Hannover’s “social card.” Other regions, including Thuringia, Hamburg, and Bavaria, are set to introduce similar programs in 2024.
In summary, Germany’s immigration reforms in 2024 reflect a strategic approach to attract skilled labor while introducing stricter measures for asylum-seekers. The initiatives aim to create a more accessible and supportive environment for skilled workers and streamline asylum processes to ensure efficiency and prevent misuse of benefits.
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