The year 2024 marks a significant juncture in German immigration policy, characterized by a series of key changes aimed at addressing various facets of the country’s immigration landscape. Germany is embarking on a path that emphasizes several critical shifts in its approach to immigration. These changes span diverse aspects, including the facilitation of skilled labor entry and the handling of asylum applications. Please read below, to find the highlights into the notable alterations in Germanys immigration policy for 2024.
The landscape of immigration is constantly evolving, and we aim to share various changes through the industry on an international level.
Key changes in German immigration policy for 2024 include:
- Negotiation of migration agreements: Germany is negotiating agreements with several countries to designate them as “safe countries of origin,” potentially facilitating faster deportations. Georgia and Moldova have already received this status.
- Easier immigration for skilled workers: Reforms aim to attract skilled labor by introducing a points system for eligibility, expanding the EU Blue Card to cover sectors with labor shortages, and allowing foreigners to work in Germany while their qualifications are being approved.
- Doubling of immigration quota for western Balkan countries: The special immigration quota for people from western Balkan countries is set to be doubled to 50,000 people in June.
- Accelerated asylum application processing: Proposed changes aim to reduce the processing time for asylum claims from over two years to between three to six months.
- Reduction in benefits for asylum-seekers: Asylum-seekers will receive fewer benefits, with welfare payments becoming accessible only after three years and deductions for food costs for those living in state housing.
- Introduction of card-based benefits system: Several German cities and states are implementing a card-based system for benefits to prevent asylum-seekers from transferring money to others, starting with Hannover and expanding to Hamburg and Bavaria.
Disclaimer: The information provided in these updates is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, we recommend consulting with legal professionals or relevant authorities for specific legal matters or concerns.