Germany Expands Professional Visa Program for 2024

Germany plans to issue over 200,000 professional visas in 2024, reflecting a 10% increase, as part of its strategy to address a severe labor shortage of 1.34 million vacancies. The new points-based immigration system, inspired by Canada, will prioritize non-EU applicants based on their German language skills, professional experience, and age. Recent immigration reforms have already resulted in a 20% increase in third-country student visas and a doubling of apprenticeship visas. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the urgent need for skilled workers, while Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock noted that further reforms are essential to fill an estimated annual gap of 400,000 workers, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare and technology. Immigration remains a contentious issue in Germany, especially with the rise of far-right sentiments ahead of upcoming elections. Notably, 89% of employment growth in the past five years is attributed to foreign workers, highlighting their crucial role in sustaining the economy.