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To tackle persistent labor shortages, Germany is set to overhaul its immigration policies in 2025. The government intends to draw skilled workers by boosting professional visa quotas and introducing a range of new initiatives.
Let’s delve into the implications of this move and how it will enhance the ever-expanding relations between the two countries.
Germany has announced plans to issue 10% more professional visas in 2024 to 2025 to address labor shortages, as stated on November 17. The new policy will allow for 200,000 professional visas, utilizing a point-based system akin to Canada’s. Additional changes include a 20% increase in student visas for non-EU nationals, a doubling of apprenticeship visas, and nearly a 50% rise in the recognition of foreign qualifications.
Previously, on October 25, 2024, Germany declared its decision to raise the number of skilled worker visas available to Indian professionals from 20,000 to 90,000 annually. This represents a substantial 4.5-fold increase in opportunities for skilled Indian workers.
This remarkable expansion aims to address Germany’s persistent shortage of qualified professionals in IT, engineering, healthcare, and other high-skilled sectors.
As of February 2024, the number of Indian skilled professionals in Germany reached 137,000, a notable increase from 23,000 in 2015. With more visa slots, the likelihood of obtaining a German work visa has greatly improved, especially for those with sought-after skills. This increase also highlights Germany’s acknowledgment of India as a key source of skilled labor.
Germany is experiencing a significant demographic shift with an aging population, leading to chronic labor shortages in essential sectors. The country aims to fill the gap of domestic professionals by raising limits for skilled workers from India.
Amid an economic slowdown, the increase in professionals will not only stimulate the economy but also prevent disruptions in companies due to labor shortages. The substantial influx of Indian professionals will benefit sectors like IT, automotive, engineering, and healthcare, which are vital for maintaining Germany’s status as a leading global economy.
Germany ranks among India’s largest trading partners, with bilateral trade valued at $26.109 billion in FY24. This figure is slightly lower than FY23, when the total bilateral trade was $26.736 billion.
In FY24, exports to Germany amounted to $9.839 billion, while imports from Germany totaled $16.270 billion.
The decision to increase visa issuance for Indian professionals will pave the way for further strengthening of India-Germany relations and set the stage for future collaboration in education and research.
At an event addressing German business leaders, PM Modi emphasized the significance of Germany as a trusted ally and major partner. He highlighted that both India and Germany are major economic powerhouses, collaborating for global good on various issues. PM Modi, along with Olaf Scholz, released the Focus on India, which outlines key strategies and methods to deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations.
The Opportunity Card is designed for individuals from non-EU countries, providing a legal residence permit that allows you to search for employment in Germany without needing a fixed employment contract to live & work. You are also permitted to work part-time basis for up to 20 hours while searching for a full time job.
Please note that the duration of stay under the Opportunity Card is limited to one year.
Please note, if you have a foreign professional or academic degree that is recognized in Germany, or if you received your university degree or vocational training in Germany, you do not need to gain the 6 points to meet the eligibility.
If your qualification is not recognized in Germany, you have to score at least six points from the criteria listed below to qualify for an Opportunity Card:
Partial recognition of a foreign educational qualification
If your foreign qualification is partially recognized.
4 points
Qualification in a shortage occupation list. If you qualify for an occupation for which there is a shortage of skilled labor in Germany.
1 point
Professional experience
2 years of professional experience within the last 5 years
2 points
3 years of professional experience within the last 7 years
3 points
Language skills
German Level A2 1 point
German Level B1 2 point
German Level B2 or
higher 3 points
English Level C1 or
higher
1 point (in addition to the other points for German language skills)
Age
Up to 35 years old 2 points
35 – 40 years old 1 point
If you stayed legally and continuously in Germany for at least 6 months in the last 5 years for study, language acquisition, or gainful employment – excluding stays for
tourist purposes.
1 point
Joint applications with your spouse dependent
If you and your spouse or registered partner both apply for the Opportunity Card at the same German mission, one point can be awarded to you.
1 point
To apply please contact one of our Immigration Experts at KAN VISA DIRECTIONS by filling up the inquiry form- https://www.visadirection.com/
To avail a Free eligibility evaluation on your Immigration option’s please contact at +91-8851763249 or
you can submit your details at
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