Germany to Grant 22,422 Additional Visas to Migrant Workers in 2024
Key Points
1. The Skilled Immigration Act has led to a projected 10% increase in visa issuance for foreign workers in Germany compared to 2023.
2. In 2024, approximately 200,000 visas are expected to be granted to skilled workers.
3. Authorities are committed to streamlining the application process to make immigration smoother.
Germany's Skilled Immigration Act, in its first year, has already attracted thousands of skilled foreign workers, with around 200,000 visas expected to be issued in 2024.
The German Interior Ministry announced that visa numbers for 2024 will be 10% higher than in 2023, when 177,000 national visas were issued. In addition to national visas, foreign nationals are increasingly interested in studying in Germany, completing vocational training, and having their foreign qualifications recognized.
Skilled Immigration Act Enhances Access for Foreign Workers
The Skilled Immigration Act has introduced several reforms to make it easier for skilled foreign workers to migrate to Germany. These include recognizing professional experience and launching the Opportunity Card, which allows workers without proficiency in the German language to work in the country.
“We are ensuring that we attract the skilled workers our economy urgently needs. This is crucial for Germany's future. The figures demonstrate that these changes are effective, allowing skilled workers to arrive and start more quickly,” said Nancy Faeser, Minister of the Interior.
Though the minister acknowledged some administrative challenges, she emphasized the commitment to making the process “more digital and faster.”
Improving the Application Process
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock highlighted continuous improvements in digitalizing the immigration process, which helps attract highly skilled workers. With an estimated 400,000 job vacancies in key sectors, the government aims to streamline procedures to address labor shortages.
“Germany needs 400,000 skilled workers annually to maintain its competitiveness as a modern immigration destination. Without them, our economy is at risk,” said Baerbock.
Between 2018 and 2023, employment subject to social insurance contributions increased by 1.6 million, with 89% of this attributed to foreign workers, reflecting the importance of skilled immigrants in Germany's workforce.