New Visa rules for non-EU nationals in Germany

Good news for non-European citizens wishing to work in Germany. Beginning 2^nd March 2020, Germany introduces easier Visa rules and procedures under the new German Skilled Immigration Act.

The new regulation will allow non-EU nationals to fill in jobs that could otherwise be filled by a German or EU worker. Foreign workers would also be able to come to Germany for up to six months to look for jobs. The new German Skilled Immigration Act provides German businesses with greater access to skilled labour from outside the EU.

Very often, numerous jobs in Germany remain unfilled due to a lack of qualified workers. The new Act also aims to increase workforce numbers in Germany.

The new law defines “qualified professionals”

Germany has expanded the list of “qualified professionals” eligible to work in the country. Along with professionals who have post higher secondary education, those with vocational training qualification would also be eligible to work in Germany.

The foreign workers must also meet the below criteria to work in Germany:

• The education qualification must be recognized by the relevant German authority
• Must have a job offer from a German employer in their related field

Earlier, non-EU nationals were not allowed to work in jobs that could be filled by German or EU workers. However, that is no more the case under the new law. The Federal Law Agency will no longer be conducting priority checks in this regard.

Under the new law, non-EU workers would also be able to work in jobs related to their professional field and not necessarily their field of study. They can also take up jobs which do not require tertiary education. Besides, they can also take up jobs which are related to their field of study.

Those with vocational qualification would also be allowed to take up jobs that could be filled by German or EU workers.

Germany Jobseeker Visa

Non-EU nationals with recognized educational qualifications can move to Germany for up to six months to look for jobs. To apply for the six-month Germany Jobseeker Visa, you must have sufficient funds to support yourself for the entire Visa duration. Also, you must have basic knowledge of German language, at least B1 Level of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

On a Germany Jobseeker Visa, you may work for up to 10 hours in a week. This allows a potential employer to see if you meet their job needs.

Training and Skill development in Germany

Non-EU workers whose educational qualification are not recognized in Germany now have a choice. They can now move to Germany with a Visa for Training and Skill Development provided they have A2 level German language skills.

A Training and Skill Development Visa gives a residence permit for up to 18 months. There is also a provision for extension for up to 4 months.

Moving to Germany as a Trainee

Non-EU students who are less than 25 years of age and have B2 Level German language skills can come to Germany as a Trainee under the new laws. Such students must present a high school leaving certificate and must have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Germany.

Easier rules for students changing Residence status

International students in Germany can now change their Residence status easily. International students can take up a vocational studies course to get a Residence Permit. They can also take up a job while still receiving vocational training.

International students who have completed a vocational training course in Germany can apply for a Permanent Settlement Permit after two years of living in Germany.

E-sports Visa

E-sport athletes and coaches can apply for the E-sports Visa under the new rules. The Visa will allow them to come to Germany and obtain a Residence Permit for employment. They will not need to seek approval from the German Federal Employment Agency.

Eligible applicants must be over 16 years of age. Their salary should also be at least 50% of the income threshold of the statutory pension insurance.

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