Germany presents draft immigration reforms, seeks 50,000 workers a year from the Balkans

Germany has presented the draft reforms for immigration and its promotion by the countries of the Western Balkans. This is an attempt by Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government to end the labor shortage in Europe's largest economy.

"Securing skilled workers is one of Germany's greatest economic tasks for the coming decades," said German Labor Minister Hubertus Heil.

According to the ministry, the number of job vacancies in 2022 was at a record level of nearly 2 million.

One of the reforms is a new immigration law, which aims to address the main obstacles for immigrants to Germany, especially those from countries outside the European Union.

"With this initiative, we are laying the foundations for a new start in migration policy," Finance Minister Christian Lindner tweeted after the cabinet approved the reforms. "Anyone who can contribute to the country's economic success as a skilled worker is welcome."

The draft law, seen by Reuters, says the reform could increase the number of workers from outside the EU to 60,000 people a year.

"If people bring professional experience or personal potential with them, we will make it possible for them to gain a foothold in our labor market," said German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser.

This draft law foresees three ways for foreign citizens to work in Germany.

The first requires a professional or university degree recognized in Germany, as well as an employment contract.

The second requires at least two years of work experience in a relevant sector and a degree or professional training.

The third is a new "opportunity card" for individuals who have no work experience but have the potential to find work. It follows a points-based system that takes into account qualifications, language skills, professional experience, connection to Germany and age.

The Cabinet also approved an Education Law, which entitles young people to free training. Germany's Federal Employment Agency will pay up to 67 percent of the net salary for the duration of the training.

The cabinet also decided to continue regulations for job seekers from Kosovo, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia, which were expected to be completed at the end of the year.

Germany will be able to recruit up to 50,000 workers per year from these countries. According to this regulation, Germany previously recruited 25,000 workers per year.

Bruecker welcomed this continuation, noting that the employment rate of these immigrants was between 97 percent and 98 percent – ??three to five years after moving to Germany. /REL