As of March 2024, skilled workers can enter Germany without prior recognition of their qualifications if they have a job offer with a minimum annual salary of €40,770.

The proposed 'opportunity card' for job seekers, which allows individuals to seek employment in Germany for one year, is criticized for its complicated requirements.

Germany's Skilled Workers Immigration Act, which aims to attract qualified workers from non-EU countries, was reformed in November 2023 to streamline the immigration process.

While the new immigration act is a positive development, its complexity poses challenges for effective implementation, according to industry leaders.

Eligible candidates for the 'Chancenkarte' earn points based on language skills, work experience, age, and ties to Germany, allowing them to search for jobs in Germany for up to one year.

Since its introduction on June 1, the 'Chancenkarte' has had limited impact, with only around 200 visas issued under this scheme so far.

In the first half of 2024, Germany issued over 80,000 work visas, with more than 40,000 allocated to skilled workers, marking a significant increase from the previous year.

In total, Germany issued over 157,000 work-related visas in 2023, including 79,000 for skilled workers, highlighting the ongoing demand for qualified labor.

Companies in Germany face various challenges, including high energy and raw material costs, alongside a persistent shortage of skilled workers, which is seen as a major economic risk.

Economic leaders are advocating for a 'welcoming culture' to attract skilled workers, emphasizing the importance of improving visa issuance and support services for newcomers.

Peter Adrian, president of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, stresses the need for a hospitable environment for foreign workers, which includes addressing visa processing and housing availability.

The number of foreign apprentices in Germany is on the rise, particularly in shortage occupations, with around 55,000 foreign apprentices arriving in 2022, up from 33,500 in 2013.