Key Points
- Germany introduced changes to its immigration laws to account for labor shortages throughout the country
Overview
The German government will introduce new changes to its immigration laws beginning March 1, 2024. These changes aim to address current labor shortages throughout the country.
- Students can now work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, up from 120 full days or 240 half days. The permit’s initial validity is extended to two years from one. Students can also more easily change their purpose of staying before graduation.
- Spouses of Skilled Worker permanent residents can qualify for permanent residence if they live together, hold a residence permit for at least three years, work at least 20 hours per week, and meet integration requirements like B1-level German language skills.
- Parents of the principal applicant and their spouse (if in Germany) can apply for a family reunification permit if the principal applicant received a qualifying permit type from March 1, 2024. They need to have a secure livelihood and health insurance. This option ends on December 31, 2028. Before, family reunification permits were only granted in cases of extraordinary hardship.
Looking Ahead
Continue to check the government of Germany’s website for the latest updates and information.
Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global
Source: The Federal Government, Germany
