Germany has been facing a crisis in the economy due to the shortage of workers for some time now. In such a situation, professional visas have been approved to meet the shortage of workers. Germany has set a target of issuing 200,000 visas for professionals by the end of the year.
The German government relaxed immigration rules last year to boost its labor market, but the country is still facing a shortage of workers. In such a situation, Germany has decided to increase the number of skilled worker visas by 10 percent this year (2024) compared to last year. The government gave this information on Sunday. Germany is constantly facing a labor shortage and the country currently has jobs for more than 13 lakh workers. In such a situation, Indians can benefit from this decision of Germany.
The German government last year adopted a points-based system inspired by Canada, known as the Opportunity Card, which makes it much easier for professionals and university graduates to enter the country, study and find work. It also allows skilled workers from non-EU countries to enter Germany without their qualifications being recognised.
What has the German government said
A joint statement by three ministries of the German government said that about 2,00,000 professional visas will be issued by the end of this year. This is an increase of more than 10 percent compared to 2023. The statement said that there has been a lot of interest in visas to study in Germany, complete vocational training or recognize foreign qualifications. The number of visas issued to students from non-EU states increased by 20 percent
German Home Minister Nancy Feser has said, 'Talented youth can complete their studies and training in Germany more easily. The Opportunity Card is giving skilled people an opportunity to easily get a suitable job. Minister Annalena Baerbock has also praised these reforms. She said that this will help meet the persistent shortage of labor in the country.
How does the Opportunity Card work?
In Germany a points system is used to determine whether a person is eligible for an Opportunity Card, based on qualifications, knowledge and experience. There are additional points for qualifying for an occupation listed as a labour shortage, partial recognition of foreign qualifications, age, German and English language skills and prior ties to Germany.
Those applying for the card must show a balance of about $1,050 per month for the duration of their stay. Germany has created 1.6 million jobs in the past five years, 89 percent of which have been given to foreigners. Despite all this, immigration remains a hot issue.