Germany: Further new provisions for Skilled Workers now in force (2024)

FAQs

Germany: Further new provisions for Skilled Workers now in force? ›

Workers with two years' practical experience in non-regulated careers are now able to work in Germany without needing to get official recognition for their qualifications. They only need to hold a degree or similar vocational qualification recognised by the country where the qualification was awarded.

The new Naturalization Act 2024 comes into force on 27.06. 2024! How will Naturalization be made easier for children born in Germany? Children born in Germany are more easily granted German citizenship if at least one parent has lived legally in Germany for five years and has a permanent right of residence.

Effective June 1, 2024, Germany's 'Opportunity Card' program will come into effect, under which foreign nationals with vocational experience or university education who achieve at least six points according to a mixed criteria point system will be able to apply for a one-year (renewable) residence permit for the ...

Building on the Skilled Immigration Act that took effect on 1 March 2020, the Act on the Further Development of Skilled Immigration will now expand the opportunities for skilled workers from non- EU states to come to Germany in order to take up employment, in many cases also simplifying visa applications.

According to the new laws(since March 1, 2024), skilled workers and scientists/researchers can obtain a permanent residence permit after 3 years of residence in Germany by meeting relatively relaxed requirements- You only need to have paid into the pension insurance for 36 months.

The new legislation means that from April 1, 2024 onwards, anyone in Germany over the age of 18 will legally be allowed to grow up to three cannabis plants and keep up to 50 grams of cannabis in possession at home. Adults will legally be able to carry up to 25 grams of cannabis on their person in public spaces.

The German law to modernize nationality law (StARModG), and allow dual citizenship, was announced in the Federal Law Gazette and will come into force on June 26, 2024.

From March 1 2024, qualified people from third countries can enter Germany for employment reasons. You would need to follow a few regulations for that. The new Immigration Act will focus on qualified workers with vocational training and work experience in their field. These workers can now easily immigrate to Germany.

As of 1 March 2024, persons with work experience in a non‑regulated profession can now enter Germany and take up employment without having to seek formal recognition. These professions include, for example, all dual training occupations.

Generally, Germany offers a more cost-effective lifestyle, particularly in cities like Berlin, Leipzig, and Cologne. The availability of high-quality yet affordable public services gives Germany a cost advantage. Thus, 2024 is a good year for those looking to relocate to manage their expenses better.

Which skilled workers are in demand in Germany? ›

You must apply for a visa at the embassy or consulate in your country of origin or permanent residence. The rules of the Residence Act governing the issue of settlement permits are applicable. Once in German territory, you can apply for a residence permit or – in case of Sec 19 ResA – a settlement permit.

New opportunity card for skilled foreign workers

One initiative is 'Opportunity Card'. Effective June 1, 2024 the visa system allows non-European Union (EU) citizens to relocate to Germany for a year to explore job opportunities.

But, if you want to become a permanent resident of Germany, then you need to apply for a permanent residence permit. These are only issued after living in Germany for a period of more than five years, and you must have had a temporary residence permit or visa for that length of time.

Germany's much-discussed Right to Residence and other laws making it easier for foreigners in the country to make their stay legal, move to the country or gain permanent residency there, has become effective today, January 1, 2023.

Child allowance increased

From 2024, the child allowance will increase by 360 euros to 6,384 euros per child. Parents can receive allowances for children, for example the child allowance. This is taken into account in income tax and means that parents have to pay less tax.

Income Tax Rate Adjusted

In 2024, they will be raised by 6.3%. In 2024, the top tax rate (Spitzensteuersatz) will therefore apply to an annual income of 66,761 euros (2023: 62,810 euros).

You can apply for a residence permit within 90 days of your first arrival in Germany under Section 24 (1) of the Residence Act. Within 90 days of entering Germany for the first time, you can apply for a temporary residence permit for a different purpose, such as to study or work in Germany.

Germany's basic tax-free amount (Grundfreibetrag) as of 2024 is 11,604€ per annum. It means you do not pay tax if you earn less than 11,604€ annually.