Germany Issues Record Work Visas to Attract Skilled Workers

Germany has issued a record number of work visas to attract skilled talent, aiming to address labor shortages. In the first half of this year, over 80,000 work visas were granted, more than half of which went to skilled workers.

This increase follows the implementation of Germany's new specialized personnel immigration law. The Opportunity Card, introduced in June, allows qualified workers with recognized vocational training or equivalent degrees and language skills to apply for work visas.

Although only about 200 visas have been issued under this program so far, it is expected to facilitate more skilled workers' entry into Germany.

Additionally, reforms to the Skilled Immigration Law and the simplification of procedures for the "Blue Card EU" have made it easier for skilled workers to enter Germany. These changes, along with the digitalization of the visa process, aim to streamline applications and boost the influx of skilled professionals, supporting Germany's economic growth.