The German Government aims to pass a new Skilled Labour Immigration Act, which will regulate access to the labour market for skilled migrants.
The Cabinet has also approved a draft Act on Suspending Deportation for Persons in Vocational Training or Employment. Both bills (draft laws) are now at the start of the parliamentary process and are not expected to enter into force before 2020.
True or false?
Will it soon be easier for unskilled migrants to work in Germany?
No
The Cabinet has approved a Skilled Labour Immigration Bill (draft law), which applies to workers from non-EU countries.
The bill is aimed solely at skilled migrants, i.e. those who hold a university degree or a vocational training qualification.
Is it true that people who are recognised as refugees in Greece are allowed to work in Germany?
No
The rule is that citizens of non-EU countries are not allowed simply to enter the Federal Republic of Germany and work there. They must apply for a work visa before they enter the country. This also applies for holders of a travel document for refugees issued by another EU state, for example Greece.
Is it possible to buy a place on a resettlement programme?
No
Within the context of the resettlement programme, Germany and other EU countries permanently take in refugees particularly in need of protection directly from their country of residence.
Are there new rules for non-EU citizens from the Balkans who would like to work in the EU?
No
Although you might have heard information to the contrary, there are no new provisions solely for nationals from these countries. For employment purposes they will still need a visa and a work permit, for which they will have to apply at the German Embassy in their country.
Is it possible to buy a visa for the Federal Republic of Germany?
No
No. A visa for entering Germany is personalised and issued only to a specific individual. Visas cannot be sold or given to someone else. Only embassies and consulates general of the Federal Republic of Germany can issue visas.
