New Immigration Act – Some of the Highlights The new Skilled Workers Immigration Act in Germany, which came into effect in a phased manner starting from November 2023, has brought about sweeping changes. Some of the main highlights of the Act are: 1. Right to Residence Permit: Skilled workers have an entitlement to a residence permit if all requirements are met. It is no longer at the discretion of the authorities. 2. Opportunity Card: A new type of residence permit titled the“Opportunity Card” has been introduced. This is based on a points system and allows workers to come to Germany and then look for a job if they achieve a certain number of points. Under this visa, a person is allowed to try work/enter into probation for up to twenty hours per week. 3. De-linking qualifications with employment: Individuals can work on the basis of their skills and are no longer restricted to work in jobs directly related to their professional qualification. 4. Recognition of Qualifications: It is not necessary to undertake the qualification recognition process before arrival in Germany. Individuals can enter the country, start working and simultaneously get qualifications recognised with the support of the employer. 5. Lower Language requirements: German language requirements have been reduced to A2 level for recognition partnerships, B1 for apprenticeships and are not required for some professionals like drivers and those in the IT industry. 6. Lower Salary Thresholds: The minimum salary requirements for the EU Blue Card have been lowered from € 58,400 to € 45,300 and further to € 41,041.80 for new entrants in shortage occupations 3 . 7. Family reunification: Skilled workers can bring their spouses, children as well as their parents. If the spouse is also a permanent resident of Germany – their parents-in-law can also stay in Germany. Proof of sufficient living space is no longer required.